False Claims under 18 U.S.C. § 287 involve knowingly submitting fraudulent claims to the U.S. government, carrying up to 5 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Henrico County. A False Claims lawyer Henrico County can help you handle these serious federal charges.
False Claims Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia
The federal False Claims Act (18 U.S.C. § 287) criminalizes knowingly making or presenting a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim for payment or approval to the U.S. government. This statute applies to any person who submits false invoices, billing statements, or reimbursement requests to federal agencies. In Henrico County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 carries up to 5 years in federal prison, fines, and restitution. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients against these allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 287
For official statutory text, consult 18 U.S.C. § 287 (Cornell LII — official site) and U.S. Department of Justice — False Claims Act (justice.gov).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), federal prosecutors routinely pursue False Claims cases with aggressive timelines. We have observed that the government often relies on whistleblower complaints under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. § 3729).
- Preserve all documents and communications related to the alleged false claim.
- Do not speak to federal agents or investigators without an attorney present.
- Contact a federal false claims defense lawyer Henrico County immediately to assert your rights.
- Review the grand jury indictment for procedural defects or insufficient evidence.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for potential resolution or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached.
In Henrico County, False Claims under 18 U.S.C. § 287 carries up to 5 years in federal prison, fines, and restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| False Claims (18 U.S.C. § 287) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization) | N/A (federal) | Restitution, supervised release, loss of federal benefits, debarment from government contracts |
| Civil False Claims (31 U.S.C. § 3729) | Civil Violation | N/A | Treble damages + $11,000–$23,000 per claim | N/A | Exclusion from Medicare/Medicaid, suspension from federal programs |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ 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%. Our firm has extensive criminal defense experience in Henrico County, including federal cases in the Eastern District of Virginia.
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 21 documented results in Henrico County: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 4 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. These results include dismissals, nolle prosequi, and amended charges across various practice areas.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 10 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division) at 701 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219, with access via I-64 and I-95. As a federal false claims defense lawyer Henrico County, we serve clients throughout the area. Serving the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville (partial). 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Henrico County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Henrico 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 Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Henrico 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 Henrico County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Henrico County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Henrico County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Henrico County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico 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 Henrico County General District Court 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.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Henrico County?
Henrico County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Henrico 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.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Henrico County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against false claims charges?
Defense strategies for false claims 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. § 287 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing false claims charges in Virginia?
If facing false claims 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 Virginia law require prompt action.
For more information, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also find our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Caroline County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake pages useful. For related practice areas, see Assault Lawyer Henrico County and Trespassing Lawyer Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026