Fraud Lawyer Arlington County, VA

Allegations of fraud—whether involving false pretenses, credit card theft, or identity-related offenses—can upend your life. In Arlington County, Virginia, fraud charges are prosecuted actively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and a conviction can bring incarceration, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record that follows you into employment, housing, and professional licensing. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to defending individuals facing fraud charges in Arlington County General District Court and Arlington County Circuit Court. Our attorneys understand how these cases are investigated, charged, and litigated, and we work toward favorable outcomes by examining the evidence, challenging intent, and protecting your rights at every stage. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Fraud Defense Means in Arlington County

Virginia law treats many fraud-related offenses as forms of larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-178, which prohibits obtaining money or property by false pretenses with intent to defraud. A prosecution for fraud in Arlington County will proceed either through the General District Court—where misdemeanors are tried and felony preliminary hearings are held—or the Circuit Court, which handles felony trials and appeals. The distinction often turns on the value of the property or money allegedly obtained.

Fraud by false pretenses is punished as larceny: if the value obtained is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny, a felony carrying 1 to 20 years in prison; if under $1,000, it is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Source: Va. Code §§ 18.2-178, 18.2-95, 18.2-96. Virginia Code Title 18.2

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

The Arlington courthouse—located at 1425 N. Courthouse Road—handles all phases of criminal proceedings. Our Arlington Location is conveniently situated to represent clients at both court levels. in handling criminal matters in this county, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office pursues fraud cases methodically, and charging decisions often hinge on the value of the alleged loss and the defendant’s prior record. An experienced defense attorney can challenge the valuation, dispute whether the defendant had the requisite intent to defraud, and negotiate for reduced or alternative dispositions where appropriate.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases

When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a fraud matter in Arlington County, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team immediately begin building your defense. This typically involves obtaining and scrutinizing the discovery—including financial records, witness statements, and any electronic evidence—to identify procedural weaknesses and challenge the prosecution’s theory. We examine whether the Commonwealth can prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, including the intent to defraud, which is often the most contestable part of a fraud charge. Our attorneys are experienced in negotiating with prosecutors to seek charge amendments, diversion, or dismissal where the facts support it. If trial is the trusted course, we prepare thoroughly and present a vigorous defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every fraud case. Results may vary. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and ensure you understand each step.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with experience in criminal trial work. He has practiced since 1997 and is admitted to the bars of Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background provides insight into how the prosecution builds a case, which he applies to defending clients in Arlington County and across the firm’s multi-state practice.

Supporting Mr. Sris is an Of Counsel team that includes attorneys with deep Virginia criminal-law knowledge, including a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland prosecutor. Together, they bring extensive combined legal experience to fraud defense. Every attorney adheres to a collaborative approach, leveraging individual strengths to develop a defense strategy tailored to the facts of your case. The firm’s Arlington Location serves clients throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for fraud in Virginia?

Fraud by false pretenses is punished as larceny under Virginia law; penalties depend on the value obtained. If the amount is $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony carrying 1 to 20 years imprisonment. If under $1,000, it is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Courts may also order restitution and impose probation. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment and housing opportunities. Each case is fact‑dependent, and available defenses may alter the charge or penalty. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Is fraud a felony or misdemeanor in Arlington County?

Fraud can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor in Arlington County, depending primarily on the value of the property or money allegedly obtained. Under Va. Code § 18.2-178, an offense involving $1,000 or more is a felony; below that amount, it is a misdemeanor. The classification determines the court: misdemeanor cases are heard in Arlington County General District Court, while felonies proceed to Arlington County Circuit Court. Because the dollar threshold is a critical factor, an experienced fraud lawyer can sometimes challenge the valuation to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor or seek dismissal. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does a lawyer defend against a fraud charge?

A fraud defense lawyer challenges the prosecution’s proof on elements such as intent to defraud, misrepresentation, and reliance. Defense strategies may include demonstrating that the accused lacked the intent to deceive, that any misstatement was not material, or that the alleged victim did not actually rely on the false statement. Attorneys also examine whether law enforcement conducted a proper investigation and whether evidence was obtained lawfully. In many cases, negotiation with the prosecutor can result in reduced charges or a deferred disposition. Because the specific approach depends on the facts, a thorough case review is essential. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team evaluate every fraud case individually to build the strong $1.

What should I do if I am accused of fraud in Arlington County?

If you are accused of fraud, exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the allegations with law enforcement or anyone else until you have legal counsel. Preserve any documents, emails, or other records that may be relevant, but do not alter or destroy them. Early intervention by an attorney can influence charging decisions, protect your interests during any investigation, and help secure your release on favorable bond conditions. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we can advise you on the next steps and begin building your defense. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

Can a fraud conviction be expunged in Virginia?

Expungement in Virginia is generally available only when a charge ends in acquittal, nolle prosequi (dismissal), or absolute dismissal—not after a conviction. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person who is acquitted or whose charge is dismissed may petition the circuit court to seal the police and court records. Most convictions cannot be expunged, although Virginia has a newer record-sealing framework for certain convictions that is being phased in. Because fraud charges often carry long-term consequences, achieving a dismissal or acquittal is critical for record-clearing eligibility. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Additional local criminal defense resources:

Official Virginia legal resources:

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. Engaging Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Requires a signed engagement agreement. The firm’s Arlington Location is at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209 — by appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule. © 1997-2026 Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

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