Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer in Bedford, Virginia
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bedford Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Trafficking Counterfeit Goods
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a federal crime defined under 18 U.S.C. § 2320. The law prohibits intentionally trafficking, or attempting to traffic, in goods or services while knowingly using a counterfeit mark. This includes fake trademarks on items like clothing, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and accessories. The statute is enforced by federal agencies such as the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Cases from Bedford County and the surrounding region are typically prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, located in Roanoke. Convictions carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 2320 (Trafficking in counterfeit goods or services). For information on the local federal court, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
- If contacted by federal agents, politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney.
- Your lawyer will conduct a thorough review of all evidence, including search warrants, seizure documents, and communications.
- A defense strategy may involve challenging the government’s proof of your knowledge or intent, or the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit mark.
- Your attorney will represent you at all court proceedings, including arraignment, pre-trial motions, and potential trial or plea negotiations.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking Counterfeit Goods
In Bedford County and federal court, trafficking in counterfeit goods under 18 U.S.C. § 2320 carries severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison for a first offense and fines up to $2 million for an individual.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $2M (individual) | Forfeiture of counterfeit items and related assets |
| Subsequent Offense | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5M (individual) | Enhanced forfeiture, permanent criminal record |
| Trafficking in Counterfeit Drugs/Military Items | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years (first offense) | Up to $5M (individual) | Priority for federal prosecution, severe sentencing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and the complex procedures of the U.S. District Court. Our approach involves meticulous case analysis, aggressive motion practice, and strategic negotiation. Mr. Sris personally leads on complex federal criminal defense matters, bringing his background in accounting and information systems to dissect financial evidence often central to these cases.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bedford Virginia cases are confidential, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in federal matters through dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements. Our team, including Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a contract with Child Protective Services, works collaboratively to build the strongest possible defense.
Contact Our Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bedford Virginia Near Me
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients in Bedford County and the surrounding region. We are accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24, near landmarks like the National D-Day Memorial and Smith Mountain Lake. We serve the communities of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Charges
What is considered “trafficking” in counterfeit goods?
Yes. Under federal law, trafficking includes transporting, transferring, selling, or distributing goods bearing a counterfeit trademark. This applies even if the goods themselves are not sold, such as in cases of possession with intent to sell.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the goods were counterfeit?
It depends. The statute requires the government to prove you acted “knowingly.” However, willful blindness—deliberately avoiding knowledge—can satisfy this element. A Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bedford Virginia can challenge the evidence of your knowledge and intent.
What agencies investigate counterfeit goods cases?
Multiple federal agencies can be involved, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. These agencies often work together on task forces.
What are the defenses to a trafficking charge?
Potential defenses include lack of knowledge, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenges to the validity of the search or seizure that obtained evidence, and questioning whether the mark was actually counterfeit. An experienced attorney will identify the best strategy.
Why do I need a Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bedford Virginia Near Me?
Federal charges require an attorney familiar with federal court procedures, sentencing guidelines, and the tactics of federal prosecutors. A local lawyer with federal experience understands the specific practices of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
Related Legal Services in Bedford County
If you are facing other federal or state charges, our firm can help. We also handle business law, civil litigation, and DUI defense in Bedford County. For more information on federal crimes, visit our Virginia federal criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Bedford County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on trafficking in counterfeit goods cases in Virginia explains each stage.