Fraud charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony depending on the amount involved; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1,741 documented results in Fairfax County, including 575 dismissals and 1,038 reductions.
Fraud Lawyer Fairfax in Fairfax, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia includes a range of deceptive practices, including obtaining money or property by false pretenses under Va. Code § 18.2-178. This statute makes it a crime to obtain money, goods, or services from another person through intentional misrepresentation, with the intent to defraud. The severity of the charge depends on the value involved: theft of less than $1,000 is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor, while theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Other fraud-related offenses include credit card fraud (§ 18.2-195), computer fraud (§ 18.2-152.3), and identity theft (§ 18.2-186.3). A conviction can result in jail time, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For more information on Virginia fraud laws, consult the following official government sources:
In Fairfax County General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle fraud cases with a focus on restitution and victim compensation. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often seeks enhanced penalties when the victim is elderly or a vulnerable adult. Early intervention and a strong defense strategy can make a significant difference in the outcome.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents and evidence related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Fairfax immediately.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with all court orders.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, such as lack of intent or mistaken identity.
- Consider negotiating a plea agreement or seeking a first offender program if eligible.
In Fairfax County, fraud carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) to a felony (up to 20 years in prison for amounts over $200).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000 or more) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution; loss of voting rights |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (under $200) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses ($200 or more) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution; loss of voting rights |
| Credit Card Fraud (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution |
| Credit Card Fraud ($1,000 or more) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution; loss of voting rights |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has handled numerous fraud cases in Fairfax County, achieving dismissals, reductions, and favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges.
Our firm has a deep understanding of the local court system, including the Fairfax County General District Court and Fairfax County Circuit Court. We have built strong relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can be leveraged to negotiate favorable plea agreements or dismissals.
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 1,741 documented results in Fairfax County: 575 dismissed or not guilty, 1,038 reduced or amended, 54 deferred — a 96% favorable outcome rate. In fraud-related cases specifically, the firm has achieved numerous dismissals and reductions, including obtaining money by false pretenses charges reduced from felonies to misdemeanors.
Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 1.5 miles from Fairfax County General District Court, with access via I-66 and Route 50.
Fraud lawyer near Fairfax.
Serving the communities of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (felony) 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; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (felony) (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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. Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) is the GDC location.
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 (obtaining money by false pretenses) 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 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
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Last verified: April 2026