Fraud charges in Augusta County, Virginia, are prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and can result in felony or misdemeanor penalties depending on the value involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Augusta County, including 13 documented case results. A Fraud Lawyer Augusta County can help you handle these serious charges.
Fraud Lawyer Augusta County in Augusta County, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-178 as obtaining money or property by false pretenses or tokens. This statute covers a wide range of deceptive conduct, including credit card fraud, computer fraud, and other schemes to defraud. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property or money obtained. If the value is less than $1,000, the offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is a felony, carrying a potential sentence of 1 to 20 years in prison. A fraud charge defense lawyer Augusta County can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For the full text of the fraud statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on the Augusta County General District Court, visit Augusta County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Augusta County General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle fraud cases with a focus on the value of the alleged loss. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often seeks enhanced penalties when the fraud involves vulnerable victims or public funds. Early intervention and a strong defense strategy can make a significant difference in the outcome.
- Step 1: Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records related to the alleged fraud.
- Step 3: Contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Augusta County immediately to begin building your defense.
- Step 4: Attend all scheduled court hearings at Augusta County General District Court or Augusta County Circuit Court.
- Step 5: Work with your attorney to explore possible defense strategies, including challenging the evidence or negotiating a plea.
- Step 6: Consider first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 if eligible.
In Augusta County, fraud carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony depending on the value of the property obtained.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-178) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Fraud $1,000 or more (Va. Code § 18.2-178) | Felony | 1 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Loss of civil rights, difficulty finding employment |
| Computer Fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-152.3) | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 12 months (misdemeanor) or 1-10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 (misdemeanor) or up to $100,000 (felony) | None | Permanent criminal record, potential for federal charges |
Results may vary.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented results in Augusta County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 13 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. These results demonstrate the firm’s ability to achieve positive outcomes for clients facing fraud and other criminal charges. Results may vary.
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 45 miles from Augusta County General District Court, with access via I-81 and Route 11. If you are searching for a fraud charge defense lawyer Augusta County or a white collar crime defense lawyer Augusta County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock, 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664 | (888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Augusta County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta County, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Augusta County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against computer fraud and abuse act violations charges?
Defense strategies for computer fraud and abuse act violations in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia?
If facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the United States charges?
Defense strategies for conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the United States in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 to build the strongest possible defense.
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Last verified: April 2026 | Content updated regularly to reflect changes in Virginia law.