Bergen County Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods in Bergen County is a serious offense under N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32, potentially classified as a second-degree crime with severe penalties. If you are facing these charges, a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Bergen County from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can provide a critical defense.
Understanding New Jersey’s Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Statute
In New Jersey, the crime of trafficking in counterfeit goods is specifically defined under N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32. This law makes it illegal to knowingly manufacture, use, display, advertise, distribute, offer for sale, sell, or possess with intent to sell or distribute any item that bears a counterfeit mark. A “counterfeit mark” is a spurious trademark, service mark, or trade dress that is identical to, or substantially indistinguishable from, a mark registered in New Jersey or with the USPTO, and whose use is likely to cause confusion or mistake.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bergen County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For information on court procedures in Bergen County, visit the New Jersey Courts Chancery Division website.
Local Court Procedures and Defense Strategy in Bergen County
Charges for trafficking in counterfeit goods in Bergen County are typically prosecuted in the Superior Court, often within the Chancery Division’s General Equity Part which handles intellectual property matters, or the Criminal Division for more severe indictments. The prosecution must prove you knowingly trafficked goods with a counterfeit mark. A common local procedural focus involves the seizure of alleged counterfeit inventory as evidence, which can significantly impact a business.
- Initial Arrest or Summons: You may be arrested or receive a summons to appear in Bergen County Superior Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will review all evidence, including investigator reports, seized goods, and communications with brand representatives.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors or lack of probable cause exist.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for trial to defend against the trademark fraud charge.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, sentencing will follow, where your lawyer will argue for minimal penalties.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods in NJ
In Bergen County, trafficking in counterfeit goods can be charged as a second, third, or fourth-degree crime depending on the retail value of the items, carrying penalties from years in prison to significant fines.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value $75,000+ | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Civil restitution to trademark owner, forfeiture of assets |
| Value $1,000 – $74,999 | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Civil restitution, possible business license suspension |
| Value under $1,000 | Fourth-Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Civil liability, court costs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to contested cases like trafficking in counterfeit goods. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in intellectual property and fraud-related matters by meticulously examining evidence and challenging the prosecution’s assertions of knowledge and intent.
Documented Case Results
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has successfully defended clients against various fraud and property charges. Our approach involves a detailed review of all transactions and evidence to protect our clients’ rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including near the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack. We assist individuals and businesses in communities such as Fort Lee, Englewood, Teaneck, Paramus, and Hackensack itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “trafficking” mean under New Jersey law?
It depends. The term is broadly defined in N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32 to include manufacturing, distributing, selling, offering for sale, or even possessing with intent to sell items bearing a counterfeit mark. Simply owning a counterfeit item for personal use may not constitute trafficking, but intent to sell is key.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the goods were counterfeit?
No, knowledge is a required element. The prosecution must prove you knowingly trafficked in counterfeit goods. A primary defense strategy is to challenge the evidence of your knowledge, which a skilled trademark fraud charge lawyer Bergen County can develop based on your supplier communications and business practices.
What are the potential defenses to these charges?
Several defenses may apply: lack of knowledge that the mark was counterfeit; the mark is not identical or substantially indistinguishable from a registered trademark; the goods were first-sale or gray market goods; or insufficient evidence linking you to the trafficking activity. An experienced counterfeit goods defense lawyer Bergen County can evaluate which defenses are strongest in your case.
Are these charges considered federal or state crimes?
They can be both. Trafficking in counterfeit goods violates both New Jersey state law (N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32) and federal law (the Lanham Act). While this page focuses on state charges, the acts can lead to parallel federal prosecution. A lawyer experienced in both arenas is essential.
What should I do if my business is investigated for selling counterfeit goods?
First, do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Second, secure all business records and supplier information. Third, contact a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Bergen County as early as possible. Early legal intervention can help manage the investigation, protect your rights, and potentially avoid formal charges.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges in New Jersey, our firm can help. Learn more about your options as a New Jersey fraud lawyer or Bergen County criminal defense lawyer. For a broader understanding of our practice, visit our New Jersey legal services hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding trafficking in counterfeit goods charges.
The same rules apply outside Bergen County, and our page on trafficking in counterfeit goods charges across New Jersey walks through each stage.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Middlesex County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Essex County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Hudson County, NJ.