False Claims lawyer Prince William County, VA

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Federal false claims investigations can disrupt your life without warning. When the government accuses you of making a false claim for payment or benefits, the case proceeds in a system where the prosecution has extensive resources. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has devoted his practice to representing individuals in federal criminal matters. He and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent people in Prince William County who face allegations under 18 U.S.C. § 287 and related fraud statutes. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which convenes in Alexandria. A conviction for federal false claims can lead to a term of imprisonment and substantial financial penalties. Early involvement by counsel is essential. To request a consultation, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747.

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What Federal False Claims Charges Mean in Prince William County

A federal false claims charge typically arises when the government alleges that a person knowingly presented a false or fraudulent claim for payment to the United States. The criminal statute, 18 U.S.C. § 287, reaches a wide variety of conduct: healthcare billing irregularities, defense contract overcharges, applications for federal grants or loans, and any situation where a person is accused of submitting a statement they knew to be untrue in order to obtain government money or property. The civil False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, allows the government and private whistleblowers to seek treble damages and civil penalties, but this page addresses the defense of criminal false claims prosecutions.

For residents of Prince William County, a federal false claims case proceeds in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. This is one of the fastest-moving federal districts in the country. Cases are investigated by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or another federal investigative body. A grand jury indictment is often sought. The procedural steps—initial appearance, detention hearing, discovery, motion practice, and trial—unfold under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the local rules of the Eastern District. Sentencing, if it occurs, is governed by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and is informed by factors such as the amount of loss, the defendant’s role, and acceptance of responsibility. Federal sentences generally carry no parole, making the stakes especially high.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle False Claims Cases

The firm’s approach to federal false claims defense begins with a careful review of the government’s allegations and the evidence it intends to rely upon. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys examine whether the charging documents satisfy the elements of the offense, which include the knowing presentation of a false claim, materiality, and the government’s reliance on the alleged falsehood. They evaluate the investigation history, the conduct of agents, and the reliability of any cooperating witnesses. Because many false claims cases hinge on voluminous documentary evidence, the firm works with forensic analysts and other professionals to scrutinize billing records, correspondence, and regulatory materials.

Early engagement can influence the direction of a case. The firm may negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office before an indictment is returned, seeking to narrow or avoid charges altogether. If charges are filed, the representation focuses on developing a defense that may challenge intent, materiality, or the government’s interpretation of the applicable regulations. When resolution short of trial is appropriate, the firm pursues plea discussions that account for the sentencing guidelines and any grounds for departure, such as acceptance of responsibility or substantial assistance. Should trial become necessary, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are prepared to litigate in the Eastern District of Virginia, drawing on experience with federal jury trials, expert testimony, and cross-examination of government witnesses.

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

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., a firm that has served clients since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who understands how the government constructs false claims cases. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His professional background includes testimony before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience in federal criminal litigation and contribute to the preparation of every false claims matter. The team represents clients in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Consultations are available by appointment; reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between criminal false claims and civil false claims?

Criminal false claims, prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 287, are charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and can lead to incarceration. Civil false claims cases under the False Claims Act are brought by the government or a whistleblower and result in money damages, not prison time. A person can face both a criminal investigation and a parallel civil suit. The defense strategies for each differ, and an attorney experienced in both can help protect your interests.

What are the possible consequences of a federal false claims conviction?

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 can result in a term of imprisonment, a substantial fine, and a term of supervised release. The length of incarceration is influenced by the federal sentencing guidelines, which account for the financial loss attributable to the alleged conduct. Because parole has been abolished in the federal system, a defendant serves a significant portion of the sentence. A conviction may also affect professional licenses, security clearances, and the ability to contract with the government in the future.

How does a federal false claims investigation begin?

Federal false claims investigations often start with a subpoena, a search warrant, or a letter from an investigative agency requesting documents. Agents from the FBI, HHS‑OIG, or a military investigative service may interview witnesses or execute a search at a residence or business. In some cases, a target letter informs a person that they are the subject of a grand jury investigation. Anyone who receives such a communication should immediately seek legal counsel and should not speak with investigators without an attorney present.

Do I need a lawyer if I am only under investigation and have not been charged?

Yes, retaining counsel early in an investigation is one of the most important steps you can take. An attorney can communicate with the government on your behalf, work to narrow the scope of the inquiry, and protect you from making incriminating statements. Investigators may ask to interview you, and anything you say can be used against you in a later prosecution. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and represent people in Prince William County from the earliest stages of a federal false claims investigation.

What defenses are available in a criminal false claims case?

Defenses may include a lack of knowing intent, the absence of a materially false statement, or proof that the claim was factually accurate. The government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant acted knowingly and that the false statement was material to the government’s decision to pay. An attorney may also challenge the admissibility of evidence obtained through an improper search, contest the calculation of alleged loss, or demonstrate that the defendant relied in good faith on professional advice. Each case is assessed on its specific facts.

How can I find a false claims lawyer in Prince William County?

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Accepts false claims defense matters from clients in Prince William County and surrounding communities. Mr. Sris has been practicing since 1997 and handles federal criminal cases in the Eastern District of Virginia. To discuss your situation and learn how the firm may assist, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation with Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys.

The firm also handles federal criminal matters in nearby counties:

Outbound Authority Sources

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