Fraud charges in Virginia carry severe penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (larceny by false pretenses) and related statutes, with potential felony exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Fraud Lawyer Virginia from our team builds your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Virginia law defines fraud broadly, encompassing acts like obtaining money or property by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178), credit card fraud (§ 18.2-195), and computer fraud (§ 18.2-152.3). The prosecution must prove you knowingly made a false representation with intent to defraud. A Fraud Lawyer Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can analyze the specific statute you are charged under. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how the Commonwealth builds these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General Assembly | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more details, review the Virginia Code § 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Virginia Judicial System website for court procedures.
In Virginia General District Court, fraud cases often begin with a preliminary hearing. The prosecutor must show probable cause. Our fraud charge defense lawyer Virginia team knows the local procedures. We challenge the evidence early.
- Contact a Fraud Lawyer Virginia immediately after arrest or investigation.
- Preserve all relevant documents, emails, and financial records.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present.
- Attend all court hearings; failure to appear can result in a bench warrant.
- Work with your lawyer to evaluate plea offers or prepare for trial.
In Virginia, fraud penalties depend on the value involved and the specific statute, ranging from misdemeanor to serious felony time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Larceny by False Pretenses (< $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Criminal record |
| Larceny by False Pretenses (≥ $1,000) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Loss of civil rights |
| Credit Card Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor / Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results. We are a white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia firm with a track record of challenging fraud allegations. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team has handled numerous fraud-related cases, from credit card fraud to complex white-collar schemes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is conveniently located near major highways like I-66 and I-495, serving clients across Virginia. We are a Fraud Lawyer Virginia near you. We serve communities including Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, and Fredericksburg.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Q: Do I need a Fraud Lawyer Virginia for a first-time offense?
Yes. Even a first-time fraud charge can result in a permanent criminal record, jail time, and fines. A lawyer can negotiate for a diversion program or reduced charges.
Q: What is the difference between fraud and larceny in Virginia?
Fraud involves deception to obtain property or money, while larceny is the physical taking of property. Both can be misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value.
Q: Can a fraud charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement only for charges that were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in an acquittal. A conviction cannot be expunged.
Q: How long does a fraud case take in Virginia?
It depends. Misdemeanor cases may resolve in 4-8 weeks. Felony fraud cases can take 3-9 months or longer, especially if they go to trial.
Q: What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud?
Do not speak to investigators without a lawyer. Contact a Fraud Lawyer Virginia immediately. Preserve all documents and records related to the investigation.
Learn more about our Virginia Criminal Lawyer hub page. For nearby localities, see our Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer and Fairfax City Criminal Defense Lawyer pages. For related practice areas, visit our Reckless Driving Lawyer Virginia page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.