Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer in Southampton, Virginia
Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Southampton Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for Southampton residents facing these complex charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods
Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods is defined under federal law as intentionally trafficking, or attempting to traffic, in goods or services while knowingly using a counterfeit mark. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 2320, is part of the Lanham Act and is enforced by federal agencies like the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations. The law covers a wide range of items, from luxury handbags and watches to pharmaceuticals, electronics, and automotive parts. The key element is the use of a “counterfeit mark,” which is a spurious mark identical to, or substantially indistinguishable from, a registered trademark. Prosecutions often involve complex evidence, including financial records, shipping documents, and experienced testimony on trademark validity.
For official statute text, see 18 U.S.C. § 2320 (official U.S. Code). For local court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Secure immediate legal representation upon learning of an investigation or charge.
- Your attorney will review all search warrants, seizure documents, and the basis for the investigation.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve challenging the “knowing” element, the authenticity of the mark, or the valuation of the goods.
- Your lawyer will engage in pre-trial negotiations with the Assistant U.S. Attorney, seeking dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea agreement.
- If necessary, prepare for and proceed to trial in U.S. District Court.
Penalties for Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods
In federal court, Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods carries severe penalties including lengthy prison terms and substantial fines, with penalties escalating based on the volume and type of counterfeit goods involved.
| Offense Level | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (Individual) | Up to 10 years | Up to $2 million | Forfeiture of counterfeit items and any property used in the offense. |
| Subsequent Offense (Individual) | Up to 20 years | Up to $5 million | Mandatory restitution to trademark owners. |
| Corporate Defendant | N/A | Up to $15 million | Corporate dissolution or restructuring may be ordered. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex federal cases like Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice who personally handles complex federal defense. Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene brings over 30 years of experience, including a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into building rigorous defenses against federal allegations.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in federal and state cases. While specific results are unique to each case, our approach is thorough. For example, in a Southampton County case, we successfully amended a serious traffic charge. In federal matters, we work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek reductions or dismissals where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Southampton Virginia Near Me
Our Richmond location serves Southampton County and surrounding communities. We are accessible for meetings by appointment.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “Trafficking” under federal law?
Yes. Trafficking includes transporting, transferring, selling, or distributing counterfeit goods. It also can include possessing goods with intent to sell. Merely purchasing a counterfeit item for personal use typically does not violate this statute, but selling or distributing it does.
Can I be charged in Virginia for goods I sold online from another state?
It depends. Federal jurisdiction applies if the counterfeit goods traveled in interstate or foreign commerce. If you used the U.S. mail, a shipping carrier, or the internet to sell goods to someone in Virginia (or if the transaction had any interstate element), you can likely be charged in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
What are the defenses to a Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge (you didn’t know the goods were counterfeit), mistake of fact, entrapment, or challenging the validity of the trademark itself. A skilled Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Southampton Virginia can also challenge the methods used in the investigation or the valuation of the seized goods.
Are the penalties worse for counterfeit pharmaceuticals or auto parts?
Yes. The law imposes enhanced penalties if the counterfeit goods are related to health and safety, such as drugs, medical devices, or critical components like auto or aircraft parts. These cases are treated with extreme seriousness by prosecutors.
Why do I need a lawyer familiar with federal court in Virginia?
Federal criminal procedure is vastly different from state court. Deadlines, discovery rules, sentencing guidelines, and negotiation protocols are unique. A Trafficking In Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Southampton Virginia with experience in the Eastern District of Virginia understands the local judges, prosecutors, and procedures, which is essential for an effective defense.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like Traffic violations in Southampton and Obstruction of Justice charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.