Export Control Violations Lawyer Loudoun County — Federal Defense
An Export Control Violations lawyer Loudoun County is essential for defending against federal charges under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These are serious federal offenses prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice, often involving the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Information sourced from federal statutes and court procedures.
Federal Export Control Laws
Export control violations are governed by federal law, not Virginia state code. The primary statutes are the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), which authorize the ITAR and EAR, respectively. Violations are felonies, with penalties including substantial fines, forfeiture, and lengthy prison sentences. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) enforces the EAR, while the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) enforces ITAR.
For official federal code, see 22 U.S.C. Chapter 39 (Arms Export Control Act). For federal court procedures in Virginia, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Investigation: You may be contacted by federal agents or receive a subpoena for records.
- Legal Consultation: Immediately consult with a federal defense attorney before responding to any government inquiry.
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will analyze the alleged violation, the controlled items involved, and the destination country.
- Strategy Development: Defense may involve challenging jurisdictional elements, demonstrating lack of intent, or negotiating a pre-charge resolution.
- Court Proceedings: If indicted, your attorney will defend you in U.S. District Court, filing motions and preparing for trial or plea negotiations.
In federal court, export control violations can result in penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment per count and millions of dollars in fines for corporations.
| Offense | Governing Law | Potential Penalties | Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (Defense Articles) | 22 U.S.C. § 2778 | Up to 20 years prison, $1M+ fines per violation | DDTC / DOJ |
| EAR Violation (Dual-Use Items) | 50 U.S.C. § 4819 | Up to 20 years prison, $300K+ fines per violation | BIS / DOJ |
| Conspiracy to Violate | 18 U.S.C. § 371 | Up to 5 years prison | DOJ |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm takes a direct approach to federal defense. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally handles complex federal matters, including export control cases. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving technical data and complex financial transactions.
Case Results & Approach
We approach each export control case by first securing all evidence and conducting a thorough internal investigation. We then engage proactively with federal prosecutors, often before an indictment is sought, to present mitigating factors and seek alternative resolutions. Our goal is to protect your freedom, assets, and professional standing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Ashburn/Loudoun
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza Suite 400 Room No 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Ashburn location serves clients throughout Loudoun County, including Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, and Brambleton. We represent clients facing federal charges in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ITAR and EAR violations?
ITAR violations involve the export of defense articles, services, and related technical data listed on the U.S. Munitions List. EAR violations involve the export of “dual-use” items (commercial items with potential military applications) listed on the Commerce Control List. An ITAR EAR violation lawyer Loudoun County can determine which regulations apply to your case.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know I was exporting a controlled item?
It depends. While some violations require “willful” intent, others impose strict liability or a “knowing” standard. Mistake of fact or lack of knowledge can be a defense, but the government may argue you had a duty to know. An experienced export violation defense lawyer Loudoun County can assess the specific intent requirements of your charge.
What agencies investigate export control violations?
Multiple agencies can be involved, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement (OEE), and the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service. Investigations are often lengthy and involve subpoenas, search warrants, and undercover operations.
What should I do if contacted by federal agents about an export issue?
No. Do not answer questions or provide documents without first consulting an attorney. Politely decline to speak and state you wish to have your lawyer present. Contact an Export Control Violations lawyer Loudoun County immediately to understand your rights and obligations before any further communication with the government.
Are there any voluntary disclosure programs?
Yes. Both the DDTC (ITAR) and BIS (EAR) have voluntary self-disclosure programs that can significantly mitigate penalties if followed correctly. However, handling these programs requires precise legal strategy and should only be done under the guidance of an experienced attorney to avoid creating additional liability.
For related legal assistance, see our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Loudoun County and Business Law in Loudoun County. For a broader overview, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.