Hudson County Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods in Hudson County is a serious offense under both state and federal law, carrying severe penalties including substantial fines and imprisonment. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a focused defense for individuals and businesses accused of trademark fraud and counterfeit sales. Our team understands the legal and evidentiary challenges these cases present. Contact us for a case evaluation.
Understanding Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Charges
Trafficking in counterfeit goods involves the intentional sale, distribution, or possession with intent to sell goods that bear a counterfeit trademark. In New Jersey, these actions are prosecuted under the state’s trademark counterfeiting statutes, which are designed to protect intellectual property rights and consumers. Federally, the Trademark Counterfeiting Act (18 U.S.C. § 2320) provides for even harsher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences for large-scale operations. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, asset forfeiture, and civil liability to the trademark holder.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hudson County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Legal Resources and Statutes
Defending against these charges requires a detailed understanding of the applicable laws. Key statutes include New Jersey’s trademark counterfeiting laws and the federal Trademark Counterfeiting Act. For official state code information, refer to the New Jersey Legislature website. For federal court procedures in New Jersey, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey provides essential resources and local rules.
Strategic Defense for Counterfeit Goods and Trademark Fraud Charges
Building a defense against trafficking in counterfeit goods charges demands a strategic approach that challenges the prosecution’s evidence at every stage. A common defense involves arguing a lack of knowledge or intent—that the accused did not know the goods were counterfeit. Other strategies may include challenging the validity of the trademark registration, questioning the methods used in the investigation (such as search warrant execution), or negotiating for a reduction to a lesser non-fraud offense. The procedural nuances in Hudson County courts can significantly impact case strategy.
- Immediate Case Review: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact our firm to secure legal representation as early as possible.
- Evidence Preservation: We will work to secure all physical evidence, business records, and communications related to the alleged activity.
- Investigation & Motion Practice: Our team conducts an independent investigation and files pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the charges.
- experienced Consultation: We engage trademark and valuation professionals to analyze the goods in question and the alleged harm to the trademark owner.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue every avenue, from negotiating for case dismissal or reduced charges to mounting a vigorous defense at trial if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods
In Hudson County, trafficking in counterfeit goods can be prosecuted as a crime of the second, third, or fourth degree in state court, with penalties escalating based on the retail value of the counterfeit items and the defendant’s prior record.
| Offense Level | Classification (N.J.S.A.) | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeit Goods (Value $1,000+) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, civil lawsuits, forfeiture of assets and inventory. |
| Counterfeit Goods (Value under $1,000) | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Criminal record, loss of business licenses. |
| Federal Trafficking (18 U.S.C. § 2320) | Felony | Up to 10 years (20 years for recidivists) | Up to $2,000,000 (corporate) | Mandatory restitution, seizure of equipment and proceeds. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Intellectual Property Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a wealth of experience to serious criminal defense matters, including intellectual property crimes like trafficking in counterfeit goods. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by the state and federal government to build these cases. We use this insight to develop counter-strategies for our clients. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Hudson County Residents
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Hudson County, including Jersey City, Bayonne, Hoboken, and Secaucus. We are accessible to those near the Hudson County Superior Court in Jersey City. 24/7 phone consultations are available.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between state and federal charges for trafficking in counterfeit goods?
It depends. State charges in New Jersey are typically filed for smaller-scale operations or local sales. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2320 are more common for large-scale, interstate, or international trafficking operations and carry significantly harsher penalties, including longer prison terms and multi-million dollar fines.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the products were fake?
Yes, but knowledge and intent are central elements the prosecution must prove. A strong defense often focuses on demonstrating a lack of criminal intent—that you were an unwitting distributor, believed the goods were legitimate overstock, or were misled by a supplier. Successfully raising reasonable doubt on intent can lead to dismissal or acquittal.
What should I do if law enforcement wants to question me about counterfeit goods?
No. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer in Hudson County before speaking to investigators, as early legal intervention is important for protecting your rights and shaping the direction of the case.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
A conviction extends beyond fines and jail time. It results in a permanent felony record, which can hinder employment, professional licensing, and housing. You may also face civil lawsuits from the trademark owner for damages and be subject to asset forfeiture, where the government can seize profits and property connected to the offense.
Why do I need a counterfeit goods defense lawyer in Hudson County?
These cases involve intricate trademark law, technical evidence like financial forensics, and severe penalties. A focused lawyer understands how to challenge the validity of the trademark, attack the chain of custody of evidence, negotiate with prosecutors familiar with the local Hudson County courts, and prepare for the possibility of federal prosecution.
Hudson County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on trafficking in counterfeit goods cases in New Jersey explains each stage.
Your case in Hudson County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Hudson County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hudson Vicinage (3rd Vicinage), 583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306, telephone (201) 748-4400, 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 Hudson 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: Hudson 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.