Facing federal bank fraud charges in Chesterfield County? Under 18 U.S.C. § 1344, bank fraud carries up to 30 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending these complex cases. Contact us 24/7.
What Is Bank Fraud Under Federal Law?
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (official U.S. Code)
Bank fraud is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 as a scheme to defraud a financial institution or to obtain money, assets, or credit under the custody of a financial institution through false or fraudulent pretenses. This federal offense is prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which covers Chesterfield County. The statute targets any knowing execution of a scheme to defraud a federally insured bank, credit union, or savings association. A conviction under this statute carries severe penalties, including up to 30 years of imprisonment and fines up to $1,000,000. The government must prove you acted with intent to defraud, making this a specific intent crime that requires careful analysis of the evidence.
Key Legal Resources
Review the official federal statute: 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (Bank Fraud) from the U.S. Code. For court procedures, visit the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia official website.
How Federal Bank Fraud Cases Proceed in Chesterfield County
Federal bank fraud cases in Chesterfield County typically begin with an investigation by the FBI or other federal agencies. The case is then presented to a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Virginia, which sits in Richmond. If indicted, your initial appearance and arraignment will occur at the federal courthouse in Richmond. The federal court process differs significantly from state court, with stricter timelines and more complex discovery rules.
- Investigation Phase: Federal agents gather evidence through subpoenas, search warrants, and witness interviews.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The government presents evidence to a grand jury, which returns an indictment if probable cause exists.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a federal magistrate judge for arraignment and bond determination.
- Discovery and Motions: Your lawyer reviews the government’s evidence and files pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer negotiates with the Assistant U.S. Attorney for a favorable resolution.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a federal district judge.
In Chesterfield County, federal bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 carries up to 30 years in federal prison and fines up to $1,000,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Restitution, supervised release, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Bank Fraud Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his deep understanding of complex legal statutes. Our federal criminal defense team includes Mr. Sris and Matthew Greene, who together bring decades of experience in federal court. We understand the high stakes of federal bank fraud charges and the aggressive tactics used by federal prosecutors 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
Case Results
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in complex federal fraud cases. While specific Chesterfield County federal bank fraud results are not available for publication, our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesterfield County Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street).
Searching for a Bank Fraud lawyer near Chesterfield County? We serve Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bank Fraud in Chesterfield County
What is the difference between bank fraud and wire fraud?
Yes. Bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 specifically targets schemes against financial institutions. Wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 involves electronic communications to defraud. Bank fraud carries up to 30 years; wire fraud up to 20 years. Both are federal felonies prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Can bank fraud charges be dismissed before trial?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if the government cannot prove intent to defraud, if evidence was obtained illegally, or if the alleged conduct does not meet the statutory definition. A federal bank fraud defense lawyer Chesterfield County can file pretrial motions to challenge the indictment or suppress evidence.
What should I do if I am under investigation for bank fraud?
No. Do not speak with investigators without a lawyer present. Contact a financial institution fraud lawyer Chesterfield County immediately. Federal agents may try to obtain incriminating statements. Your lawyer can communicate with the government on your behalf and protect your rights during the investigation phase.
How long does a federal bank fraud case take in Chesterfield County?
It depends. The Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment, but excludable delays can extend the timeline. Typical federal bank fraud cases in the Eastern District of Virginia take 6-18 months from indictment to resolution, depending on complexity and whether a plea agreement is reached.
What are the penalties for bank fraud in federal court?
Up to 30 years in federal prison, fines up to $1,000,000, restitution to the financial institution, and supervised release. Sentencing is determined by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the loss amount, number of victims, and your criminal history. A federal bank fraud defense lawyer Chesterfield County can argue for a lower sentence.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.