Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Middlesex County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods in Middlesex County is a serious offense under N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32, often charged as a second-degree crime with severe penalties. As a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Middlesex County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges. Our team has handled numerous cases involving trademark fraud and counterfeit merchandise.
Understanding New Jersey’s Counterfeit Goods Laws
In New Jersey, the law defines trafficking in counterfeit goods as the intentional manufacture, distribution, sale, or offer for sale of items bearing a counterfeit mark. The severity of the charge depends on the retail value of the goods involved and the defendant’s intent. This is distinct from simple trademark infringement and carries significant criminal penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Middlesex 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). For court procedures and filing information, visit the Middlesex County Criminal Division website.
Local Court Procedures and Defense Strategy
In Middlesex County, these cases are typically prosecuted in the Superior Court, Criminal Division. Prosecutors often rely on evidence from brand investigators and law enforcement seizures. A key local procedural fact is that the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office has a dedicated unit for intellectual property crimes, which can impact case strategy.
- Initial Arrest & Charges: You will be formally charged, often following a seizure of alleged counterfeit goods.
- Arraignment: You will appear in Middlesex County Superior Court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will review all evidence, including the goods, purchase records, and experienced analysis on the marks.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the evidence or the legality of the seizure.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will work toward a favorable plea agreement or prepare for trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and case factors.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods
In Middlesex County, trafficking in counterfeit goods is primarily a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in state prison and fines of up to $150,000 or twice the retail value of the goods.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goods valued at $1,000+ | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 or 2x value | Restitution, forfeiture of assets |
| Goods valued under $1,000 | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Intellectual Property Crimes
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined experience to serious criminal defense, including trademark fraud charge lawyer Middlesex County cases. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results. We understand the technical and legal nuances required to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, from the authenticity of the mark to the valuation of the goods.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has successfully defended clients against serious fraud and trafficking charges. In one case, we secured a dismissal where the prosecution could not prove our client knew the goods were counterfeit. In another, we negotiated a reduction from a second-degree to a third-degree charge, avoiding state prison. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Middlesex County Location
If you need a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Middlesex County, our firm is accessible to clients throughout the area. We serve neighborhoods and communities across Middlesex County, including New Brunswick, Edison, Woodbridge, and Sayreville. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for immediate concerns.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between trafficking and simply possessing counterfeit goods?
Yes, there is a major difference. Trafficking involves selling, distributing, or intending to sell counterfeit items. Simple possession for personal use is typically a lesser offense or may not be a crime at all, whereas trafficking is a felony in New Jersey.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the goods were fake?
It depends. The prosecution must generally prove you knowingly trafficked in counterfeit goods. However, “willful blindness”—deliberately avoiding knowledge—can sometimes be used to establish guilt. A strong defense often focuses on challenging the evidence of your knowledge and intent.
What are the common defenses to a trademark fraud charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenging the validity of the trademark, or arguing that the goods were not actually counterfeit. An experienced trademark fraud charge lawyer Middlesex County can evaluate which defense best fits your case.
Will I go to jail for a first-time offense?
It is possible, especially for second-degree charges. New Jersey’s sentencing guidelines for second-degree crimes start with a presumption of incarceration. However, a skilled attorney can argue for mitigating factors, such as lack of prior record, to seek a non-custodial sentence.
What should I do if my business is investigated for selling counterfeit items?
Immediately contact a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Middlesex County. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. Secure all business records and cease the sale of any questionable inventory. An attorney can guide you through the investigation and help protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Middlesex County cases are handled by our New Jersey trafficking in counterfeit goods practice, where the whole process is set out.
For the full picture beyond Middlesex County, our page on trafficking in counterfeit goods in Virginia covers the process end to end.
Your case in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Middlesex County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Middlesex Vicinage (6th Vicinage), 56 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, telephone (732) 981-3000, 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 Middlesex 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: Middlesex County NJ lawyers directory · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Essex County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Hudson County, NJ.