Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
A violation of export control laws in Burlington County can lead to severe federal criminal penalties, including decades in prison and millions in fines. 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 the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
Understanding Federal Export Control Laws
Export control laws are federal regulations designed to restrict the export of sensitive goods, software, technology, and services for reasons of national security, foreign policy, and economic protection. The two primary regulatory regimes are ITAR, which controls defense articles and services, and EAR, which controls “dual-use” items (commercial items that can have military applications). Violations are prosecuted aggressively as federal crimes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | NJ Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a prosecutor’s insight to building a strong defense against complex federal allegations like export violations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey court rules and procedures relevant to federal cases heard in the state, visit the New Jersey Courts Rules page. The Bureau of Industry and Security provides the full Export Administration Regulations.
Defending Against Export Violation Allegations in Burlington County
Federal export control investigations often involve multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. A key local procedural fact is that while initial investigations are federal, related seizures or arrests may involve coordination with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. The defense must address both the federal charges and any potential parallel state proceedings.
- Immediate Case Assessment: Upon contact, we immediately secure all relevant communications, shipping records, and export documentation to assess the government’s potential case.
- Regulatory Classification Review: We work with technical experts to determine the correct classification of the item under the U.S. Munitions List (USML) or Commerce Control List (CCL), which is often a central dispute.
- Voluntary Self-Disclosure Analysis: If a violation is identified, we advise on the strategic benefits and risks of filing a voluntary self-disclosure with the relevant agency, which can significantly mitigate penalties.
- Negotiation & Defense Strategy: We engage with prosecutors to challenge the intent element (“willfulness”) and negotiate for reduced charges, such as a misdemeanor instead of a felony, or a non-prosecution agreement.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable settlement cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the legality of searches, the interpretation of regulations, and the sufficiency of the evidence.
Penalties for Export Control Violations
In Burlington County, a violation of export control laws tried in federal court carries penalties including lengthy prison terms, massive fines, and mandatory debarment from exporting.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (Knowing) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1 million per violation | Debarment, asset forfeiture, loss of export privileges |
| EAR Violation (Willful) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1 million or 5x value of export | Denial of export privileges, corporate compliance monitors |
| EAR Violation (Negligent) | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $50,000 per violation | Civil penalties, mandatory training |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Complex Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to the table. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy is particularly apt for export cases, which often involve international elements. We understand that a charge for a violation of export control laws is not just a legal problem but a potentially business-ending event. Our defense strategy is built on a deep understanding of the regulations, the enforcement field, and the high stakes involved.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for export violation cases in Burlington County are not publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of federal investigations, our firm-wide approach has secured favorable outcomes in thousands of complex cases. We have a documented record of achieving dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable settlements by meticulously challenging the government’s evidence and leveraging procedural defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Export Violation Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Medford. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7469
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Violation of Export Control Laws
What is the difference between an ITAR and an EAR violation?
Yes, there is a key difference. An ITAR violation involves the unlicensed export of defense articles, services, or technical data listed on the U.S. Munitions List. An EAR violation involves the unlicensed export of “dual-use” commercial items that have potential military applications and are listed on the Commerce Control List. The enforcement agencies and specific penalties differ.
Can I go to jail for an accidental export violation?
It depends on the circumstances and your mental state. Negligent violations under the EAR are misdemeanors with a lower jail risk. However, “knowing” or “willful” violations under both ITAR and EAR are felonies with a high likelihood of prison time upon conviction. A strong defense often focuses on challenging the government’s proof of intent.
What should I do if my company receives a subpoena about export practices?
Immediately contact an export violation defense lawyer Burlington County. Do not respond or provide documents without legal counsel. An attorney can manage communications, conduct an internal investigation under attorney-client privilege, and advise on whether a voluntary self-disclosure is appropriate to potentially mitigate penalties.
Does Burlington County have a local court for export control cases?
No. Violations of export control laws are federal crimes prosecuted in U.S. District Court. The nearest federal court for Burlington County is the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Camden or Trenton. However, local law enforcement may assist federal agents, making local counsel familiar with both federal and New Jersey law essential.
What are the defenses to an export control charge?
Common defenses include lack of willful intent, mistaken classification of the exported item, the existence of a valid license exemption, challenges to the legality of the search or seizure that obtained evidence, and demonstrating strong compliance programs to show good-faith efforts to follow the law.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are dealing with this issue, you may also need guidance on: Business Law in Burlington County, Federal Criminal Defense in Burlington County, or Contract Law in Burlington County. For a broader view of our practice, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.