Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ
A violation of export control laws in Somerset County is a serious federal offense investigated by agencies like BIS and DDTC, carrying severe penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strategic defense for individuals and businesses facing allegations under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Our firm leverages deep federal court experience to protect your rights and future.
Understanding Federal Export Control Laws
Export control laws are federal regulations designed to restrict the export of sensitive goods, technology, and information for reasons of national security, foreign policy, and economic protection. The two primary regulatory frameworks are the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), administered by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Violations can involve the unauthorized export of defense articles, technical data, dual-use items, or providing services to prohibited entities or countries.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | NJ Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of federal export control statutes, refer to the U.S. Code, Title 22, Chapter 39 (Arms Export Control Act). For local federal court procedures in New Jersey, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
handling an Export Control Case in Somerset County
Allegations of a violation of export control laws typically originate from federal agencies and are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The process is demanding, involving extensive document review, potential grand jury proceedings, and negotiations with federal prosecutors. An experienced export violation defense lawyer Somerset County is critical from the first sign of an investigation.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: You may receive a subpoena, a visit from federal agents (FBI, HSI, BIS), or a letter from a regulatory agency. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
- Case Assessment & Strategy: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough review of the alleged conduct, the items or technology involved, and your company’s compliance history to build a defense strategy.
- Negotiation & Disclosure: Your attorney may engage in discussions with prosecutors or agency officials, which could involve a voluntary self-disclosure to mitigate potential penalties.
- Litigation or Settlement: Depending on the strength of the government’s case, your defense may proceed to trial or seek a negotiated settlement, such as a deferred prosecution agreement or a civil penalty.
Potential Penalties for Export Violations
In federal court, a violation of export control laws can result in severe criminal penalties, including decades of imprisonment and multi-million dollar fines, as well as devastating civil penalties and administrative sanctions like debarment.
| Violation Type | Potential Classification | Incarceration | Fines | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (Criminal) | Felony | Up to 20 years per violation | Up to $1 million per violation | Debarment, loss of export privileges, corporate compliance monitors |
| EAR Violation (Criminal) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1 million or 5x value of export | Denial of export privileges, asset forfeiture |
| ITAR/EAR Violation (Civil) | Administrative | N/A | Up to $1.2+ million per violation | Mandatory compliance training, audit requirements |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal matters. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands government tactics from the inside. We have represented clients across the spectrum of federal allegations, developing a strategic approach focused on protecting our clients’ freedom, reputation, and livelihood. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients against cross-border legal challenges like export control violations.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for export control cases in Somerset County are not publicly verifiable, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in federal matters. We approach each case with a detailed, aggressive defense strategy case-specific to the unique facts and legal challenges presented.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Export Control Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206.
24/7 Phone Consultations — (888) 437-7747 — Meetings By Appointment Only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Export Control Defense
What is the difference between ITAR and EAR violations?
Yes, there is a key difference. ITAR violations involve the unauthorized export of defense articles and services listed on the U.S. Munitions List. An ITAR violation lawyer Somerset County handles these strict liability offenses. EAR violations concern the export of dual-use items (commercial with military applications) controlled by the Commerce Control List and often involve complex licensing determinations.
Can I go to jail for an unintentional export violation?
It depends. While some violations require “knowledge” or “willfulness,” others, like many ITAR offenses, are strict liability. Even unintentional mistakes due to poor compliance can lead to severe civil penalties, and if willfulness is alleged, criminal charges including imprisonment are possible. An experienced export violation defense lawyer Somerset County can argue against the requisite intent.
What should I do if a federal agent contacts me about an export issue?
No, you should not speak to them without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to consult with your lawyer. Promptly contact a federal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, and early legal guidance is important to protect your rights and shape the investigation.
What are the benefits of a voluntary self-disclosure?
A voluntary self-disclosure to BIS or DDTC, made before the government learns of the violation from another source, can significantly reduce potential penalties. It may lead to a 50% reduction in civil fines or influence the decision not to pursue criminal charges. This is a strategic decision that must be made with counsel.
How long does an export control investigation take?
Federal investigations can take months or even years. The timeline depends on the scope of the case, the volume of documents, international aspects, and whether the matter is resolved through settlement or proceeds to trial. Your attorney will work to manage the process efficiently.
If you want to see how a Somerset County case fits into the wider process, our page on violation of export control laws lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Somerset County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.