Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Lawyer St Marys County — What Are Your Defenses?
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, investigated by agencies like HSI and FBI, with penalties including up to 20 years in prison and massive fines. In St. Mary’s County, MD, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these complex charges.
Federal Law on Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods
The federal statute governing trafficking in counterfeit goods, 18 U.S.C. § 2320, makes it a crime to intentionally traffic, or attempt to traffic, in goods or services while knowingly using a counterfeit mark. This includes the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of fake products bearing trademarks that are identical to or substantially indistinguishable from genuine, registered marks. The law covers a wide range of items, from luxury handbags and electronics to pharmaceuticals and auto parts. Prosecutors must prove you acted with intent to deceive and that the trademark was registered and in use.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal law, see 18 U.S.C. § 2320 (Trafficking in counterfeit goods or services). For local federal court procedures in Maryland, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Local Defense Strategy in St. Mary’s County
Federal cases originating in or affecting St. Mary’s County are typically investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) out of Baltimore or Washington D.C. Field Offices, often in conjunction with local law enforcement. These cases may be prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Greenbelt or Baltimore. A key local procedural fact is the intense focus on supply chains and financial records; prosecutors will trace transactions to establish knowledge and intent.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: You may be contacted by federal agents (HSI, FBI) for an interview. Do not speak to them without your attorney present. Contact our firm immediately.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: The U.S. Attorney will present evidence to a grand jury. Your attorney can monitor these sealed proceedings and may file pre-indictment motions to challenge the evidence.
- Arraignment & Plea: If indicted, you will be arraigned in U.S. District Court. Your attorney will advise on whether to plead not guilty and fight the charges or explore a plea agreement.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: Your defense team will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case on legal grounds.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no plea is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeit Goods Trafficking
In St. Mary’s County and across the federal system, trafficking in counterfeit goods carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms, fines up to $5 million for corporations, and mandatory restitution to trademark holders.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (General) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $2 million (individual) / $5 million (corp.) | Forfeiture of counterfeit items & equipment; restitution. |
| Subsequent Offense | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5 million (individual) / $15 million (corp.) | Enhanced forfeiture; permanent injunction. |
| Involving Drugs, Military Items, or Danger to Public | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years (first offense) | Up to $5 million (individual) | Priority prosecution; no parole in federal system. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle complex federal cases like trafficking in counterfeit goods. Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting the financial and digital evidence central to these investigations. We understand how federal agencies build these cases and work to protect your rights from the first contact through trial.
Documented Case Results
While specific results for trafficking in counterfeit goods in St. Mary’s County are not listed, our firm’s approach to complex federal and white-collar defense is demonstrated in our broader record. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in intricate cases requiring detailed financial and evidentiary analysis.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Defense Near St. Mary’s County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and California. We are accessible via Route 5 and Route 235, representing clients at local and federal courts.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a counterfeit goods charge and a trademark fraud charge?
It depends. “Trafficking in counterfeit goods” is the specific federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 2320. “Trademark fraud” is a broader term that can refer to civil infringement or other deceptive practices involving trademarks. In criminal court, you would be charged with trafficking. A counterfeit goods defense lawyer St. Mary’s County can explain how these terms apply to your specific case.
Can I go to jail for selling counterfeit items online?
Yes. Selling counterfeit items online is a primary method of trafficking under federal law. If the government proves you knowingly sold goods with fake trademarks, you face felony charges. Penalties depend on the value of the goods and your prior record, but incarceration is a real possibility.
What should I do if federal agents want to question me about counterfeit products?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Say, “I wish to exercise my right to remain silent and I want to speak to my lawyer.” Do not consent to any searches. Contact a defense lawyer immediately, as statements made to agents can be used against you. An experienced trademark fraud charge lawyer St. Mary’s County can intervene on your behalf.
What are common defenses to trafficking in counterfeit goods charges?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge (you didn’t know the goods were counterfeit), lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, and challenging the validity of the trademark or the government’s evidence collection methods. The specific defense depends entirely on the facts of your case.
How long does a federal counterfeit goods case take?
A federal case can take anywhere from several months to over two years. The Speedy Trial Act sets guidelines, but complex cases involving financial records and multiple defendants often take longer due to extensive discovery and motion practice.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing federal charges, you need a dedicated legal team. For more information on our federal defense practice, visit our Maryland Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Anne Arundel County and Charles County. For other legal needs in St. Mary’s County, see our pages on Business Law and Civil Litigation.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding trafficking in counterfeit goods charges, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. directly at (888) 437-7747.