Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods lawyer Harford County, MD
Federal charges for trafficking in counterfeit goods under 18 U.S.C. § 2320 can lead to severe penalties, including substantial terms of imprisonment, significant fines, and asset forfeiture. When these charges arise in Harford County, Maryland, the case falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland—with proceedings typically held in the Baltimore or Greenbelt divisions. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., practicing since 1997, provides experienced defense representation for individuals and businesses facing federal counterfeit goods allegations throughout Harford County, including Bel Air, Aberdeen, Havre de Grace, Edgewood, Fallston, Jarrettsville, and Forest Hill. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in federal court and work to protect clients’ rights from investigation through trial. If you or your business is under investigation or has been charged, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Federal Counterfeit Goods Cases Mean in Harford County
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a federal offense prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. Unlike state-level criminal matters, these cases are handled in the U.S. District Court, not in the Harford County Circuit Court or the District Court of Maryland for Harford County. The federal investigative agencies—often the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, or the U.S. Secret Service—build the case, and the government proceeds by grand jury indictment.
For Harford County residents and businesses, this means that any contact from federal agents, a target letter, or an arrest triggers a process governed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The penalties upon conviction can include imprisonment, fines reaching into the millions of dollars for organizational defendants, and forfeiture of the counterfeit items and any proceeds. Because federal prosecutors have a high conviction rate and there is no parole in the federal system, early engagement with defense counsel is critical.
Harford County’s location along the I‑95 corridor and its proximity to major ports and distribution centers can make it a jurisdictional focus for federal counterfeit-goods investigations. Our firm understands the local federal court practices, the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who handle these cases, and the procedural nuances that can affect the outcome. We represent clients from initial investigation through trial and, if necessary, appeal.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Approach Federal Defense
When a client retains Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a federal counterfeit goods matter, the first step is a careful evaluation of the government’s evidence and the legal theory of the case. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys examine whether the alleged counterfeit marks fall within the scope of 18 U.S.C. § 2320, whether the defendant had the requisite intent, and whether the government’s investigation complied with constitutional requirements. Pre‑indictment representation can sometimes shape the charging decision or lead to a declination of prosecution.
After indictment, the defense team works through discovery, files appropriate pretrial motions, and engages in plea discussions where strategically beneficial. For a trial, the firm prepares to challenge the government’s forensic and financial evidence, to cross‑examine expert witnesses, and to present a coherent narrative to the jury. Throughout the process, the attorneys advise the client on the risks and benefits of each option, including the potential for cooperation or acceptance‑of‑responsibility credit under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The firm’s experience with federal court procedures in the District of Maryland—including motion practice, sentencing advocacy, and alternative-resolution programs—guides the defense at every stage.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background as a prosecutor gives him insight into how the government builds its cases, and he applies that knowledge to develop effective defense strategies for clients facing federal charges.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include lawyers with prior prosecutorial experience and deep familiarity with Maryland’s federal and state courts. Collectively, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring a multi‑state perspective and a commitment to thorough preparation in every case. The firm maintains a Maryland location in Rockville and serves clients throughout Harford County and across the state. To discuss a federal counterfeit goods matter, request a consultation at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for trafficking in counterfeit goods under federal law?
Under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, a first conviction for trafficking in counterfeit goods can result in imprisonment for up to 10 years, while a second or subsequent offense carries a maximum of 20 years. Fines can reach $2 million for an individual and $5 million for an organization. The court may also order forfeiture of the counterfeit products, the equipment used to produce them, and any proceeds traceable to the offense. Additional consequences can include restitution to the brand owner and a term of supervised release. Because the actual sentence is driven by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the specific facts of the case, consulting with an experienced attorney is essential.
How does the federal court process work in Harford County for counterfeit goods charges?
A federal counterfeit goods case begins with an investigation by a federal agency; if charges are filed, the defendant appears in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, typically at the Baltimore or Greenbelt courthouse. After an initial appearance and arraignment, the parties engage in discovery and pretrial motions. Plea negotiations occur throughout the process, and if no resolution is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Sentencing follows the advisory Sentencing Guidelines. Harford County residents travel to the federal courthouse for all proceedings; the firm’s attorneys appear at the appropriate division and handle each stage of the case.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for trafficking in counterfeit goods?
Yes—anyone who learns they are under investigation, receives a target letter, or is contacted by federal agents should immediately invoke the right to counsel and retain an experienced federal defense attorney. Statements made to investigators can be used against you, and early legal guidance helps you understand the scope of the investigation and the potential exposure. An attorney can communicate with prosecutors on your behalf, negotiate for a declination or reduced charges, and protect your rights before an indictment is returned.
What should I do if I am contacted by federal agents about counterfeit goods?
Politely decline to answer questions and ask to speak with an attorney. You have no obligation to provide information without counsel present. Federal agents are trained to obtain statements, and anything you say can be used to support a prosecution. After invoking your rights, contact a lawyer at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. The attorney can then determine whether the investigation involves you individually or your business and can advise on next steps.
Can a conviction for trafficking in counterfeit goods be appealed?
Yes, a conviction in federal court can be appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. An appeal may challenge legal errors made during the trial, such as improper admission of evidence or incorrect jury instructions, as well as errors in sentencing. The appellate process has strict deadlines, so any request for an appeal must be made promptly after judgment. An experienced federal appellate attorney can evaluate whether grounds for appeal exist and can handle the briefing and argument before the appellate court.
How much does a federal criminal defense lawyer cost for counterfeit goods cases?
Fees vary based on the complexity of the case, the stage of the proceedings, and the amount of work required. Many federal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for representation through a particular phase, while others bill hourly. During a consultation, the attorney will discuss the anticipated scope of the matter and provide a fee arrangement. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment; call (888) 437-7747 to speak about your situation and learn about the fee structure that would apply.
Also serving: Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County.
For additional information, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, the U.S. Sentencing Commission, and the text of 18 U.S.C. § 2320.
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