Camden County Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods in Camden County is a serious offense under N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32, carrying significant penalties. If you are facing these charges, you need a defense strategy that addresses both the criminal and trademark fraud aspects of your case. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused legal representation for individuals accused of trafficking in counterfeit goods.
Understanding New Jersey’s Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Law
In New Jersey, the crime of trafficking in counterfeit goods is formally defined under N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly manufacture, use, display, advertise, distribute, offer for sale, sell, or possess with intent to sell or distribute any item or service bearing a counterfeit mark. A “counterfeit mark” is defined as a spurious trademark, service mark, or other identifying mark that is identical to or substantially indistinguishable from a genuine mark registered in New Jersey, another state, or with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Last verified: April 2026 | Camden County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
The law is designed to protect intellectual property rights and consumers from fraud. The severity of the charge often hinges on the retail value of the counterfeit items involved and the defendant’s intent. A trafficking in counterfeit goods defense lawyer Camden County can analyze the specifics of the alleged items and the prosecution’s evidence to build a strong defense.
Official Resources and Legal Citations
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s website for N.J. Stat. § 2C:21-32. Court procedures and filing information for Camden County can be found on the New Jersey Courts website for the Camden Vicinage.
Defense Strategies for Counterfeit Goods Charges in Camden County
Building a defense against trafficking charges requires a nuanced approach. A key local procedural fact is that cases involving high-value counterfeit items are typically prosecuted in the Camden County Superior Court, where penalties are more severe. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly trafficked in goods with a counterfeit mark.
An effective counterfeit goods defense lawyer Camden County will examine all angles, which may include:
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Review all charges, police reports, and evidence with your attorney to understand the prosecution’s case.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your lawyer will scrutinize the search warrant, the seizure process, and the authentication of the alleged counterfeit marks.
- Developing a Defense Theory: This could involve arguing a lack of knowledge, challenging the valuation of the goods, or questioning the authenticity of the trademark claim.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or to challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the strength of the defense, your attorney will either negotiate for a favorable plea resolution or prepare to vigorously defend you at trial.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods
In Camden County, trafficking in counterfeit goods is graded based on the retail value of the infringing items, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime.
| Retail Value of Counterfeit Items | Crime Degree | Incarceration | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $1,000 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months in jail | Up to $1,000 |
| $1,000 to $75,000 | Third-Degree Crime | 3 to 5 years in state prison | Up to $15,000 |
| Over $75,000 | Second-Degree Crime | 5 to 10 years in state prison | Up to $150,000 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Additional consequences can include civil liability to the trademark owner for damages, court-ordered restitution, and forfeiture of any property used in the commission of the crime. A trademark fraud charge lawyer Camden County can work to mitigate these severe penalties.
Our Firm’s Experience in Intellectual Property and Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to criminal charges like trafficking in counterfeit goods. Our firm’s philosophy, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across state lines and against varied charges that blend criminal law with intellectual property issues. We understand that a trademark fraud charge can have serious implications beyond the courtroom.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented history of advocating for clients facing serious charges. While every case is unique, our firm-wide track record includes numerous resolutions where charges were reduced or dismissed through pre-trial motion practice and negotiation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Camden County Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Camden County, NJ
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
If you are searching for a “trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer near Camden County,” our firm is accessible to clients throughout the region. We serve communities across Camden County, including Cherry Hill, Camden City, Voorhees, and Gloucester Township. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment to discuss their trafficking in counterfeit goods charges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between trafficking in counterfeit goods and trademark fraud?
Yes, there is a key difference. Trafficking in counterfeit goods is the criminal act of selling or distributing fake branded items. Trademark fraud is a broader civil violation involving the deceptive use of a registered trademark. A criminal charge for trafficking can lead to a separate civil lawsuit for trademark fraud.
Can I go to jail for selling counterfeit handbags online?
Yes. If the total retail value of the items sold meets certain thresholds under N.J. law, you can face state prison time. Selling even a few high-value counterfeit items can result in felony-level charges. An experienced trafficking in counterfeit goods defense lawyer Camden County is essential.
What does the prosecution have to prove for a trafficking conviction?
It depends. The state must prove you knowingly manufactured, distributed, or sold items bearing a mark you knew was counterfeit. They must also establish the retail value of those items. A defense often focuses on challenging the “knowledge” element or the authenticity of the trademark.
Are there defenses if I didn’t know the goods were counterfeit?
Yes. A lack of knowledge is a common defense. If you purchased items from a supplier you believed was legitimate, your attorney can argue you lacked the criminal intent required for conviction. This makes the evidence of your supplier interactions critical.
Should I speak to law enforcement if they contact me about counterfeit goods?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Anything you say can be used to establish the “knowledge” element of the crime.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods in Camden County, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (609)-983-0003 for the most current legal guidance regarding your trafficking in counterfeit goods charges.
For the full picture beyond Camden County, our page on trafficking in counterfeit goods cases in New Jersey covers the process end to end.
Your case in Camden County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Camden County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 101 South Fifth Street, Camden, NJ 08103, telephone (856) 379-2200, 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 N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Camden 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: Camden County NJ lawyers directory · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Middlesex County, NJ · Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer Essex County, NJ.