Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer in New Kent, Virginia
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are facing these serious charges in New Kent County, you need a Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer New Kent Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeit Goods
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is prosecuted under federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 2320. This statute makes it a crime to intentionally traffic, or attempt to traffic, in goods or services while knowingly using a counterfeit mark. The law covers a wide range of items, from luxury handbags and electronics to pharmaceuticals and auto parts. The government must prove you acted with intent to deceive or defraud. Penalties are severe and increase based on the volume of goods and your prior record. A Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer New Kent Virginia can challenge the evidence of intent and the valuation of the alleged counterfeit items, which directly impacts potential penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal counterfeit trafficking statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 2320. For information on the federal court handling these cases in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Court Process for Counterfeit Cases
Federal counterfeit goods cases in Virginia are typically investigated by agencies like Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) or the FBI before charges are filed. The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The procedural steps are distinct from state court. An experienced Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer New Kent Virginia near me will guide you through each critical phase.
- Investigation & Indictment: A federal grand jury reviews evidence and issues an indictment, which formally charges you.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You appear before a magistrate judge, are informed of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases resolve through plea agreements. If not, the case proceeds to a jury trial in federal district court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which consider the retail value of the counterfeit goods.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking Counterfeit Goods
In New Kent County, federal trafficking in counterfeit goods charges carry severe penalties including lengthy prison terms and massive fines, based on the value of the goods involved.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (Goods valued under $2,000) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $10,000 | Forfeiture of counterfeit items |
| First Offense (Goods valued $2,000+) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,000,000 | Forfeiture, restitution to trademark owners |
| Subsequent Offenses | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000,000 | Enhanced forfeiture and restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that federal charges require a specific skill set. Our attorneys are familiar with the procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia and the strategies needed to defend against complex federal allegations like trafficking in counterfeit goods.
Case Results in Federal and Criminal Defense
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in complex cases. For instance, attorney Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with deep investigative insight, has successfully defended clients in serious traffic and criminal matters. In New Kent County, our team has secured dismissals for charges like excessive vehicle length and achieved favorable amendments in reckless driving cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients at federal courts throughout the region, including those facing charges in New Kent County. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
FAQs: Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Charges
What is considered “trafficking” in counterfeit goods under federal law?
Yes. Trafficking includes transporting, transferring, selling, or distributing goods you know bear a counterfeit trademark. Even attempting or conspiring to do so is a crime under 18 U.S.C. § 2320.
Can I go to prison for selling fake designer items online?
Yes. Selling counterfeit goods online is a common way trafficking charges arise. If the total retail value of the items is $2,000 or more, you face felony charges with a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years for a first offense, plus substantial fines.
What defenses are available against counterfeit trafficking charges?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of knowledge (you didn’t know the goods were counterfeit), challenges to the government’s valuation of the goods, entrapment, and constitutional violations during the investigation (like illegal searches). An experienced Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer New Kent Virginia can evaluate the best strategy for your case.
How does the government value counterfeit goods for sentencing?
The government uses the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of the genuine version of the item, not the price you sold it for. This valuation method can drastically increase the perceived scale of the offense and the corresponding penalties under the federal sentencing guidelines.
Why do I need a federal lawyer instead of a state criminal lawyer?
Federal courts have different rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines than state courts. A lawyer experienced in federal practice, like those at SRIS, P.C., understands how to handle the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal discovery rules, and the complex Federal Sentencing Guidelines that will determine your penalty if convicted.
For more information on federal criminal defense, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub page. If you are facing other charges in New Kent County, we also assist with business law and DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For the background behind a New Kent County charge, our page explains how Virginia federal courts handle trafficking in counterfeit goods.