Export Control Violations Lawyer Baltimore County — Federal Defense
Export control violations in Baltimore County are serious federal offenses prosecuted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These laws govern the export of defense articles, dual-use technologies, and sensitive data. A conviction can result in decades in prison, massive fines, and loss of export privileges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Export Control Laws and Penalties
Export control violations are prosecuted under federal statutes, primarily the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA). The ITAR, administered by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), controls defense articles and services. The EAR, administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), controls dual-use items. Violations are felonies.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of federal investigative tactics and courtroom strategy to these complex cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland’s codified laws, visit the Maryland General Assembly statute portal. For federal court procedures in Maryland, refer to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
handling an Export Control Case in Baltimore County
Federal export cases often begin with investigations by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, or the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. In Baltimore County, these cases are filed in the U.S. District Court in Baltimore or Greenbelt. The Key Local Procedural Fact is that these are federal, not state, proceedings. The prosecution is led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, which has significant resources.
- Initial Investigation: You may be contacted by federal agents. Do not speak to them without your attorney present. We can communicate on your behalf.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: The government presents evidence to a grand jury. If indicted, you will be arraigned in federal court.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: We obtain all evidence, challenge the legality of searches, and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation or Trial: We explore all options, from negotiating a favorable resolution to mounting a vigorous defense at trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, we advocate for the most lenient sentence under the complex Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
- Compliance & Mitigation: We work with companies to implement compliance programs and negotiate with agencies like DDTC or BIS on disclosure and mitigation.
Potential Penalties for Export Control Violations
In Baltimore County, export control violations prosecuted federally carry severe penalties, including long prison terms and fines in the millions of dollars.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (AECA) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years per violation | Up to $1 million per violation | Debarment from export privileges; asset forfeiture |
| EAR Violation (ECRA) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years per violation | Greater of $1 million or 5x value of export | Denial of export privileges; corporate compliance monitors |
| Conspiracy to Violate | Federal Felony | Same as underlying offense | Same as underlying offense | All conspirators liable for acts of co-conspirators |
| False Statements to Agents | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Separate charge often added during investigation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Export Control Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We have a documented record of handling complex federal cases. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients in multi-jurisdictional matters like export controls. We understand the technical and legal nuances of ITAR and EAR regulations.
Our Approach to Export Control Cases
We have handled numerous federal cases. Our approach involves immediate case assessment, engaging technical experts if needed, and developing a defense that may challenge the classification of the item, the intent element, or the jurisdiction of the U.S. government. We also assist clients with voluntary disclosures to regulatory agencies when appropriate. Secondary attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of experience, contributes valuable insight into local federal court procedures.
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)
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Our Maryland office serves clients in Baltimore County. We are accessible via I-695, I-83, and I-95. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium.
Export Control Violations Lawyer Baltimore County FAQ
What are the most common export control violations?
The most common are unlicensed exports of controlled items, “deemed” exports (sharing technology with foreign nationals in the U.S.), and false statements on export documentation. Both ITAR and EAR violations are prosecuted aggressively in Baltimore County due to the region’s defense and tech industries.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the item was controlled?
It depends. While some violations require “willful” intent, others impose strict liability or a “knowing” standard. Prosecutors often argue that you “should have known” based on your position. An experienced export violation defense lawyer Baltimore County can challenge the government’s proof of intent, which is a common defense strategy.
What is the difference between ITAR and EAR?
ITAR controls defense articles, services, and related technical data listed on the U.S. Munitions List (USML). EAR controls dual-use items (commercial/military) listed on the Commerce Control List (CCL). An ITAR EAR violation lawyer Baltimore County must understand both regimes, as misclassification is a frequent issue in investigations.
Should I make a voluntary disclosure?
It depends on a careful risk assessment. A voluntary disclosure to DDTC or BIS can mitigate penalties but may also trigger an investigation. This decision must be made with counsel after a thorough internal review. We guide clients through this complex process to seek the best possible outcome.
What happens during a federal export control investigation?
Agents may execute search warrants, subpoena records, and interview employees. You have the right to an attorney. Do not speak to investigators without legal representation. We can interface with the government to protect your rights from the very start of an investigation.
For more information, see our Maryland Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related issues like business law in Baltimore County and civil litigation.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.