Securities fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 is a federal offense carrying up to 25 years in federal prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Frederick County, Virginia, handling complex federal securities fraud cases in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
Securities Fraud Lawyer Frederick County, Virginia
Federal securities fraud, codified at 18 U.S.C. § 1348, prohibits any scheme or artifice to defraud any person in connection with securities of an issuer with a class of securities registered under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The statute also covers obtaining money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses in connection with the purchase or sale of such securities. A conviction under this statute carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison, fines, restitution, and forfeiture. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, with the Harrisonburg Division serving Frederick County.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Cornell LII)
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defending clients facing securities fraud charges in Frederick County.
For the full text of the federal securities fraud statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Cornell LII — official site). For information on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, see U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office routinely pursue securities fraud charges with extensive investigative resources from the FBI and SEC. We have observed that early intervention — before an indictment is returned — can be critical in influencing the scope of charges and potential bail conditions.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present. Invoke your right to counsel immediately.
- Preserve all documents and electronic records. Do not alter or destroy any evidence.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn of an investigation.
- Prepare for the possibility of a grand jury subpoena or target letter.
- Attend all court appearances in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
- Work with your attorney to develop a defense strategy, which may include challenging the government’s evidence or negotiating a resolution.
In Frederick County, Virginia, federal securities fraud carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison, fines, restitution, and forfeiture under 18 U.S.C. § 1348.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Securities Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1348) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000,000 for individuals; up to $25,000,000 for organizations | Potential loss of professional licenses (e.g., securities licenses, CPA) | Restitution, forfeiture, supervised release, and collateral consequences including employment and housing |
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 extensive criminal defense experience in Frederick County, Virginia. While specific case results for securities fraud in Frederick County are limited, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 25 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (Harrisonburg Division), with access via I-81 and Route 7. If you are searching for a securities fraud lawyer near Frederick County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Winchester, Stephens City, Middletown, Clear Brook, and Gore. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Securities Fraud in Frederick County
What is the penalty for securities fraud under federal law?
Securities fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison. Additional fines, restitution, and forfeiture may apply. Cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against securities fraud charges?
Defense strategies for securities fraud in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing securities fraud charges in Virginia?
If facing securities fraud charges in Virginia, contact a federal 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 federal law require prompt action.
What is the difference between state and federal securities fraud charges?
Federal securities fraud charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Virginia under 18 U.S.C. § 1348. Federal sentencing guidelines apply, and federal conviction rates exceed 90%. There is no parole in the federal system. State charges may also apply under Virginia law.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Frederick County?
Frederick County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Frederick 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. Frederick/Winchester General District Court (5 North Kent Street, Winchester, VA 22601) is the GDC location.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Frederick 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 Frederick County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Securities Fraud Lawyer Shenandoah County
Last verified: April 2026