False Claims lawyer Arlington County, VA

Federal false claims investigations and prosecutions demand immediate, focused legal attention. If you are facing allegations of presenting fraudulent claims to the United States government—whether related to healthcare, government contracts, grants, or any federally funded program—you need a defense team that understands how the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia builds and pursues these cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals and entities in Arlington County and throughout Northern Virginia who are under investigation or have been charged with violations of 18 U.S.C. § 287 and related federal false claims statutes. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, founded the firm in 1997 and, together with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, concentrates on federal criminal defense. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Arlington County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Jason S. Rucker. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on federal criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.

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What False Claims Means in Arlington County

In the federal criminal context, a false claims charge typically arises under 18 U.S.C. § 287, which makes it a crime to knowingly present a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim to any department or agency of the United States. Unlike the civil False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. § 3729), which focuses on treble damages and per-claim penalties, criminal false claims carry the prospect of a felony record and incarceration. A conviction under § 287 can result in up to five years in prison, as well as fines and restitution. The offense may be charged alone or alongside wire fraud, mail fraud, or conspiracy counts, depending on the nature of the alleged scheme.

Arlington County residents and businesses often interact with a wide range of federal agencies—from the Department of Defense and the General Services Administration to grant-making entities and healthcare programs. Any claim for payment or reimbursement submitted to a federal agency can attract scrutiny. Investigations are frequently conducted by agencies such as the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. Because the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia is known for its active white-collar prosecution track record, anyone who learns they are a subject or target of a false claims investigation should engage experienced counsel without delay.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle False Claims Cases

Federal false claims matters typically begin with an investigation—sometimes overt, often not. An individual may receive a target letter, a grand jury subpoena for documents, or a visit from federal agents. Early intervention can materially alter the trajectory of the case. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to engage with the investigating agency and the Assistant U.S. Attorney early, aiming to narrow the scope of the inquiry, protect privileged communications, and present mitigating facts before charging decisions are made.

If charges are filed, the case proceeds in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The firm handles every stage—initial appearance, detention hearing, discovery review, motions practice, plea negotiations, and trial. Because federal sentencing guidelines are advisory but heavily influential, crafting a comprehensive sentencing presentation that addresses the offense level, criminal history, acceptance of responsibility, and any grounds for downward departure is essential. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have handled federal criminal matters in the Eastern District and understand the local procedural nuances that can affect outcomes. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who established the firm in 1997. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background includes substantial experience in criminal trial work, and he personally leads the firm’s federal criminal defense practice.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys collaborate on federal cases, contributing additional courtroom experience and substantive knowledge. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys serve clients from the firm’s Arlington location, by appointment only, at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209. The firm’s multi-state presence means that clients who face related matters in other jurisdictions can access coordinated representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a false claim under federal criminal law?

A false claim under 18 U.S.C. § 287 is a knowingly false or fraudulent demand for payment from a federal agency. The government must prove that the defendant acted with knowledge of the claim’s falsity. The claim can involve overbilling, misrepresenting services, falsifying certifications, or submitting fictitious invoices. Even a single false claim can sustain a felony charge if the government meets its burden.

What should I do if I am under investigation for a false claim in Arlington County?

Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the matter with anyone else. Preserve all relevant documents, emails, and records—do not destroy anything. Do not speak to investigators or attempt to explain the situation without counsel present. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights and shape the course of the investigation.

How does a federal false claims case proceed in the Eastern District of Virginia?

A federal false claims case typically begins with an investigation and may lead to an indictment, followed by arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, and trial or plea. The Speedy Trial Act imposes general time limits, though many delays are excludable. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes the case. Sentencing is governed by the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, with judicial discretion to vary from the guideline range.

Can false claims charges be dismissed?

Yes, false claims charges can be dismissed if the evidence is insufficient, constitutional violations occurred, or the government cannot meet its burden. Motions to dismiss may challenge the sufficiency of the indictment, the grand jury proceedings, or the government’s evidence. In some cases, negotiations result in a declination of prosecution or a plea to a lesser charge. A thorough review of the government’s case by experienced counsel is critical.

What are the potential penalties for a federal false claims conviction?

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison, fines, and restitution. The actual sentence depends on the advisory guidelines calculation, which considers the loss amount, the defendant’s role, acceptance of responsibility, and criminal history. Additional charges—such as mail fraud, wire fraud, or conspiracy—can significantly increase exposure.

How do I choose a federal criminal lawyer in Arlington County?

Look for an attorney with experience in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, familiarity with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and a track record of handling federal investigations. The firm’s Arlington location, by appointment only, is conveniently situated for clients across Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, and Ballston. To discuss your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Primary sources:
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia |
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Virginia |
18 U.S.C. § 287

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. By appointment only. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington Location: 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209. Phone: (888) 437-7747.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.