Export Control Violations Lawyer Anne Arundel County — Federal Defense
Federal export control violations in Anne Arundel County are prosecuted under the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), carrying severe penalties. As an export control violations lawyer Anne Arundel County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients in the U.S.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Federal Export Control Laws in Maryland
Export control laws regulate the transfer of sensitive technology, software, and defense articles from the United States to foreign persons or countries. In Anne Arundel County, home to defense contractors and technology firms, these cases are often investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). Violations can be charged as felonies under 22 U.S.C. § 2778 (AECA/ITAR) or 50 U.S.C. § 4819 (EAR).
Common allegations include exporting controlled technology without a license, making false statements on export documentation, and conspiracy to violate export laws. The penalties are severe, including long prison sentences, multimillion-dollar fines, and debarment from future exporting.
Official Legal Resources
- 22 U.S.C. Chapter 39 – Arms Export Control (official U.S. Code)
- Maryland District Courts (official court website)
- Initial Investigation: You may be contacted by federal agents (HSI, FBI, BIS) for an interview. Do not speak to them without your attorney present.
- Charging Decision: The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews evidence for indictment. Your lawyer can present mitigating facts to influence this decision.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will appear in U.S. District Court. Your attorney will advise on pleading not guilty to build a defense.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense team reviews all evidence and files motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Most cases resolve through plea agreements. If not, your lawyer prepares for a complex federal trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the type of export and national security harm.
In Anne Arundel County, export control violations are federal felonies punishable by up to 20 years in prison per count and fines of $1 million or more.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (AECA) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1,000,000 per violation | Debarment, asset forfeiture |
| EAR Violation | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1,000,000 per violation | Denial of export privileges |
| Conspiracy to Violate Export Laws | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as underlying offense |
| False Statements on Export Documents | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Criminal record, professional license impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Export Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors with a deep understanding of how the government builds export control cases. We approach these technically complex matters with a focus on the details of the regulations, the classification of the exported items, and the intent of the accused. We have represented clients in federal investigations involving dual-use technology, defense articles, and encryption software.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in federal cases. While specific results depend on the unique facts of each case, our strategic approach focuses on challenging the government’s evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, and advocating for our clients at every stage. We understand the high stakes of an export control violations lawyer Anne Arundel County case, where a conviction can end a career and carry a lengthy prison term.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Serving Anne Arundel County, Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, Millersville
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Export Control Violations FAQ: Anne Arundel County
What are ITAR and EAR export controls?
Yes, they are two primary U.S. export control regimes. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) control defense articles and services. The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) control dual-use items (commercial with military applications). An ITAR EAR violation lawyer Anne Arundel County defends against charges under both sets of rules.
Who investigates export control violations in Maryland?
Federal investigations are typically led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, or the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). In Anne Arundel County, these agencies work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland to build cases.
Can I go to jail for an unintentional export violation?
It depends. The government must prove “willful” violation for criminal charges, but negligence can lead to massive administrative penalties. An experienced export control violations lawyer Anne Arundel County can argue lack of criminal intent, which is a key defense strategy.
What is a Voluntary Self-Disclosure (VSD)?
A VSD is when a company or individual proactively reports a potential violation to BIS or DDTC. It can significantly reduce penalties, sometimes avoiding criminal prosecution altogether. Consulting with an export violation defense lawyer Anne Arundel County before filing a VSD is essential.
What should I do if federal agents contact me about an export case?
No, do not answer questions. Politely decline to speak and immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Your lawyer will communicate with investigators on your behalf.
For representation from an export control violations lawyer Anne Arundel County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We provide 24/7 consultations.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.