Prince George County Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods in Prince George County is a serious state and federal offense under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 8-601 and the federal Lanham Act, carrying severe penalties. A conviction can result in years in prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Law on Counterfeit Goods in Maryland
In Maryland, the crime of trafficking in counterfeit goods is formally defined under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 8-601. This statute makes it illegal for a person to knowingly and willfully manufacture, distribute, sell, or offer for sale any goods or services bearing a counterfeit trademark. The law is designed to protect intellectual property rights and consumers from fraudulent products. The severity of the charge often depends on the retail value of the counterfeit items involved, with higher values skilled to more serious felony classifications.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George’s County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Maryland statute, you can review Md. Code, Criminal Law § 8-601 (official Maryland General Assembly website). For information on court procedures in Prince George’s County, visit the Prince George’s County Clerk of the Circuit Court website.
The Local Legal Process for Counterfeit Goods Charges
If you are charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods in Prince George County, your case will typically begin in the District Court for Maryland District 5 (Upper Marlboro) for preliminary matters or misdemeanor charges. Felony charges may be bound over to the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction, particularly with the rise of online marketplaces, are increasingly aggressive in pursuing these cases. An experienced counterfeit goods defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge the evidence, which often involves experienced testimony on trademarks and the authenticity of goods.
- Initial Arrest or Summons: You will be arrested or receive a criminal summons detailing the charges.
- Arraignment: You will appear in District Court to be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your rights were violated during the investigation or seizure.
- Discovery & Investigation: The prosecution must share its evidence. Your lawyer will investigate the source of the goods and the validity of the trademark claims.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of charges. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court will impose penalties based on statutory guidelines and any mitigating factors presented by your defense.
Potential Penalties for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods
In Prince George County, trafficking in counterfeit goods carries penalties ranging from misdemeanor to felony levels, with prison time and fines scaling based on the value of the counterfeit items involved.
| Offense Level (by Retail Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $1,000 | Misdemeanor | Up to 18 months | Up to $5,000 | Probation, restitution to trademark owner |
| $1,000 to $10,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Forfeiture of counterfeit items, restitution |
| $10,000 to $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $50,000 | Asset forfeiture, significant restitution |
| Over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal charges may also apply, severe financial penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Intellectual Property and Fraud Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to defending complex charges like trafficking in counterfeit goods. Our firm’s experience spans over 120 combined years, handling cases that involve intricate evidence and require a deep understanding of both state and federal trademark law. We know that a trademark fraud charge lawyer Prince George County must be prepared to dissect the prosecution’s case, from the chain of custody of seized goods to the qualifications of their trademark experts.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our defense team works diligently to achieve favorable outcomes for clients facing serious allegations. In past cases involving counterfeit goods, our strategies have included challenging the knowledge element of the crime, negotiating for reduced charges based on the client’s role, and presenting evidence of legitimate business dealings. We approach each case with the goal of minimizing the long-term impact on your life and livelihood.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Prince George County Residents
If you are searching for a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Prince George County, our firm is positioned to assist you. Our attorneys are familiar with the local courtrooms and procedures. We serve clients throughout the county, including communities near the courthouse in Upper Marlboro, as well as in Bowie, College Park, and Fort Washington. Facing these charges can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “trafficking” mean in a counterfeit goods case?
Yes. In Maryland law, “trafficking” broadly covers manufacturing, distributing, selling, or even offering for sale goods with a counterfeit trademark. You don’t need to be the main distributor; simply possessing a large quantity for sale can lead to charges.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the goods were fake?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you acted “knowingly and willfully.” A strong defense often focuses on challenging this element. If you genuinely believed the goods were authentic or were misled by a supplier, your attorney can argue you lacked the required criminal intent.
Are these state or federal charges?
They can be both. Maryland has its own statutes, but trafficking in large volumes or across state lines often triggers federal investigation under the Lanham Act. A skilled lawyer must be prepared to defend against charges in either or both systems.
What are the best defenses to a counterfeit goods charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenging the validity of the trademark, or arguing that the goods were not actually counterfeit. An attorney will examine the search, seizure, and all evidence for constitutional violations.
What should I do if my business is investigated for selling counterfeit items?
Immediately contact a trafficking in counterfeit goods lawyer Prince George County. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. Secure all business records. An attorney can interface with law enforcement, protect your rights, and work to resolve the matter before formal charges are filed.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods or trademark fraud in Prince George County, contact our firm to discuss your situation. We provide a case-specific defense aimed at protecting your freedom and reputation.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.