Violation of Export Control Laws Defense in Bergen County, NJ
A violation of export control laws in Bergen County can lead to severe federal criminal penalties, including decades in prison and millions in fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and businesses accused of ITAR and EAR violations. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience handling the federal enforcement field.
Understanding Federal Export Control Laws
Federal export control laws regulate the transfer of sensitive technology, software, and data from the United States to foreign countries or persons. The primary regulatory frameworks are the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which controls defense articles and services, and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which governs dual-use items that have both commercial and military applications. A violation of export control laws can be prosecuted as a federal crime, with charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the willfulness and severity of the breach.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | Bergen County Court Website
The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a deep understanding of the government’s approach to building regulatory cases. This background is critical when facing a violation of export control laws, where intent and knowledge are often central to the prosecution’s argument.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of federal export control statutes, refer to the U.S. Code on the House.gov website. Information on enforcement and regulatory guidance can be found through the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).
handling an Export Control Investigation in Bergen County
An investigation into a potential violation of export control laws often begins with a letter from the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) or the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). These are not informal inquiries; they are the first step in a formal administrative or criminal process. For businesses in Bergen County’s tech and manufacturing sectors, such an investigation can threaten operations, contracts, and reputations.
- Immediate Legal Consultation: Upon receiving any government inquiry, contact an export violation defense lawyer Bergen County as early as possible. Do not respond or provide documents without counsel.
- Internal Audit & Document Preservation: Your attorney will guide you in securing all relevant records, including export logs, shipping documents, and communications, while conducting a privileged internal review.
- Strategic Response: Develop a coordinated response strategy. This may involve preparing a voluntary self-disclosure, which can significantly mitigate penalties if done correctly.
- Negotiation & Defense: Engage in negotiations with the investigating agency to seek a favorable resolution, such as a civil settlement, or prepare a vigorous defense if criminal charges are filed.
Potential Penalties for Export Violations
In federal court, a violation of export control laws carries severe penalties, including long prison sentences, crippling fines, and mandatory debarment from exporting.
| Violation Type | Potential Classification | Incarceration | Fines | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITAR Violation (Willful) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years per count | Up to $1 million per violation | Debarment, asset forfeiture, loss of security clearances |
| EAR Violation (Knowing) | Federal Felony/Misdemeanor | Up to 20 years (felony) or 1 year (misdemeanor) | Up to $1 million or 5x value of export (felony) | Denial of export privileges, corporate compliance monitors |
| Administrative / Civil | N/A | N/A | Up to $300,000 per violation or 2x transaction value | Temporary denial orders, mandatory training, audit requirements |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Regulatory Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique perspective to defending against allegations of a violation of export control laws. Founded by a former prosecutor, our firm understands how federal agencies build cases from the ground up. We use this insight to develop preemptive defense strategies, challenge the government’s evidence of intent, and negotiate for reduced charges or alternative resolutions. Our approach is grounded in a thorough analysis of the regulatory framework and the specific facts of your case.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in federal matters. While every case is unique, our focused defense aims to protect our clients’ freedom, livelihoods, and reputations. We have successfully negotiated for the dismissal of charges, reduction of felony allegations to misdemeanors, and favorable civil settlements that allow businesses to continue operations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Bergen County Residents & Businesses
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17, making it convenient for consultations. As an ITAR EAR violation lawyer Bergen County clients can rely on, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. We serve communities including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
Frequently Asked Questions: Export Control Violations
What is the difference between an ITAR and an EAR violation?
Yes, there is a key difference. ITAR violations involve defense articles, services, and related technical data listed on the U.S. Munitions List. EAR violations involve dual-use items (commercial with potential military use) listed on the Commerce Control List. The penalties and enforcing agencies differ.
Can I go to jail for an unintentional export violation?
It depends. Strict liability applies to some administrative penalties, but criminal prosecution typically requires proof of “willful” or “knowing” conduct. However, negligence or reckless disregard can be construed as knowledge. An experienced export violation defense lawyer Bergen County can analyze the specifics of your case to assess criminal exposure.
What should I do if I receive a letter from BIS or DDTC?
Do not respond immediately. Contact an attorney concentrating on violation of export control laws first. Your lawyer will help you understand the scope, preserve documents under legal privilege, and formulate a strategic response to protect your interests.
Are there benefits to filing a voluntary self-disclosure?
Yes, in many cases. A timely, full, and cooperative voluntary self-disclosure can significantly reduce potential penalties, sometimes eliminating them entirely for EAR violations. However, the process is technical and must be done correctly to gain the benefit, making legal guidance essential.
Can a company be held liable for an employee’s actions?
Yes. Under the principle of respondeat superior and specific export regulations, a company can face civil and criminal liability for the unauthorized export actions of its employees, even if management was unaware. This underscores the need for strong compliance programs.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a violation of export control laws, immediate action is critical. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. For the most current legal advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
The same rules apply outside Bergen County, and our page on violation of export control laws charges across New Jersey walks through each stage.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, 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 the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen 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: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Violation of Export Control Laws Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.