Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods lawyer Maryland, MD
If you have received a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland or have been contacted by federal agents regarding the suspected import, sale, or distribution of goods bearing counterfeit trademarks, you need an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Investigations into trafficking in counterfeit goods are pursued by the Department of Justice with the resources of Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and other federal agencies. A conviction can lead to substantial incarceration, significant fines, and forfeiture of assets. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent individuals and businesses in federal criminal matters across Maryland. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Means in Maryland
Federal law prohibits the intentional trafficking, or attempt to traffic, in goods or services while knowingly using a counterfeit mark. The U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland hears these cases in its Greenbelt and Baltimore divisions. Investigations often begin with the seizure of suspect merchandise at ports of entry or through undercover purchases, followed by search warrants, witness interviews, and the gathering of transactional records. The government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant trafficked in goods, that the goods bore a counterfeit mark, and that the defendant knew the mark was counterfeit. Penalties may include imprisonment, supervised release without federal parole, fines, restitution, and mandatory asset forfeiture.
In Maryland, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the dedicated resources of federal law enforcement. The discovery phase involves large volumes of commercial and shipping documentation, electronic communications, and product authentication reports. Because the evidence is often complex and the sentencing exposure severe, representation by counsel who has appeared in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland can be essential to evaluating the strength of the government’s case, challenging the authenticity of the marks, and developing a defense strategy from the earliest stage.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal Criminal Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by meeting with the client to understand the scope of the alleged trafficking, the products involved, and any knowledge of counterfeiting. If the case is in the investigation phase, counsel works to communicate with federal agents and prosecutors to clarify the facts and, where possible, avoid an indictment. Once charges are filed, they review the indictment, preserve the defendant’s speedy-trial rights, and file appropriate motions — including motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment or to exclude unreliable authentication testimony.
Through discovery, they examine the chain of custody of the seized goods, the methodology of the government’s attorneys, and the commercial documentation. The team prepares for each stage of the proceeding: detention hearing, arraignment, pretrial motions, potential plea discussions under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, and trial. Where conviction occurs, they advocate at sentencing for a Guidelines-compliant resolution, presenting mitigating factors and contesting any enhancements the government seeks. Throughout, the client is kept informed of the options and the risks.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he founded the firm in 1997 and has guided its growth to serve clients in federal criminal matters across five jurisdictions. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is trafficking in counterfeit goods under federal law?
Federal trafficking in counterfeit goods involves intentionally selling or distributing products that bear a mark known to be counterfeit. The government must prove the defendant knew the mark was inauthentic and that the goods were placed into the stream of commerce. Investigators may rely on undercover buys, trademark registrations, and experienced attorney authentication. The offense is a felony and can be charged alongside other statutes such as mail or wire fraud, conspiracy, or money laundering.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for trafficking in counterfeit goods?
Yes, you should engage a federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn of a federal investigation. Early involvement of counsel can shape how you interact with investigators, protect your rights, and position you for a pre-indictment resolution. Federal law enforcement has substantial resources, and any statement you make can be used against you. A lawyer can communicate with prosecutors on your behalf while you remain silent.
What should I do if federal agents contact me about counterfeit goods?
Politely decline to answer questions without counsel present and contact an attorney immediately. You have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney. Do not consent to any search or seizure of documents, computers, or products without a warrant. Providing any information before consulting with a lawyer may inadvertently damage your defense. Keep records of any contact and immediately call a lawyer experienced in federal counterfeiting investigations.
How does a criminal case proceed in federal court for counterfeit goods trafficking?
A federal case typically begins with an investigation, followed by indictment or criminal complaint, initial appearance, and arraignment. After arrest, a detention hearing determines pretrial release conditions. Discovery is exchanged, and motions — such as to suppress evidence — are litigated. The case may resolve through a plea agreement or proceed to trial before a U.S. District Judge. If convicted, sentencing occurs under the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
What are the potential penalties for a federal trafficking in counterfeit goods conviction?
Conviction can result in imprisonment, substantial fines, restitution to the trademark holder, and forfeiture of assets linked to the offense. Federal law does not provide parole; a person convicted serves the majority of the imposed sentence. The specific sentence depends on the volume of goods, the loss amount, the defendant’s role, and any prior criminal history. An experienced attorney can challenge the loss calculation and argue for a sentence at the lower end of the applicable Guideline range.
Why choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for federal criminal defense in Maryland?
The firm has practiced in federal court since 1997 and appears in the Greenbelt and Baltimore divisions of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who understands how federal prosecutors build counterfeit-goods cases, and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and the firm has achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm’s approach includes early intervention, thorough motion practice, and an informed assessment of the government’s evidence. Contact our Rockville location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
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Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.