Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods lawyer New Jersey, NJ

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Federal trafficking in counterfeit goods charges in New Jersey are vigorously prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. These charges, typically brought under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, involve knowingly trafficking in goods or services that bear a counterfeit mark. Federal investigative agencies—especially Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI—devote significant resources to building these cases, which can lead to indictments in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in its Newark, Trenton, or Camden divisions. If you are under investigation or have already been indicted, you need defense counsel who understands the unique demands of federal criminal practice. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to federal criminal matters. Results may vary. in your case. Call (888) 437-7747 as soon as possible to request a consultation.

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Federal Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods Offenses in New Jersey

Federal law prohibits trafficking in goods and services knowing they bear a counterfeit mark. The mark is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or otherwise protected. A conviction can rest on showing the defendant intentionally trafficked or attempted to traffic in such goods. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey routinely charges these offenses when the alleged conduct involves interstate or foreign commerce. Because the case is federal, it follows the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, not the procedures that apply in New Jersey state courts. The District of New Jersey spans three divisions: the Newark division handles most major criminal cases, but matters can also be venued in Trenton or Camden depending on where the alleged conduct occurred.

Investigations often begin with enforcement sweeps at major ports of entry, including Port Newark–Elizabeth, or with undercover purchases made by special agents. The government may seek a criminal complaint followed by an arrest warrant, or it may present evidence to a grand jury to obtain an indictment. Because the potential penalties are severe—a felony conviction under § 2320 can result in a lengthy prison term, substantial fines, and restitution—the stakes are high from the moment you learn of the investigation. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey; they understand how the local U.S. Attorney’s Office handles these matters and can work to protect your rights at every stage.

Counsel appearing on federal criminal matters at the local court in New Jersey, NJ.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Federal Counterfeit Goods Cases

The defense begins with a clear understanding of the government’s evidence. That means reviewing discovery promptly, evaluating whether the government can prove each element of the offense, and exploring every avenue to challenge the charges. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys focus on testing the strength of the government’s case—whether the accused actually knew the goods were counterfeit, whether the mark was valid and established, and whether the defendant’s actions amount to “trafficking” under the statute. In many federal criminal cases, strategic motions—to suppress evidence, to dismiss on legal grounds, or to challenge the indictment—play a central role early in the proceeding.

When appropriate, the firm engages with the Assistant U.S. Attorney to explore the possibility of a favorable pretrial resolution. At the same time, Mr. Sris and the firm prepare every case as if it will go to trial, because that posture strengthens the client’s position during any negotiations. If a trial becomes necessary, the defense team presents a well-prepared case to the jury, including the cross-examination of government witnesses, expert testimony where needed, and the presentation of any evidence favorable to the defense. Because federal judges in the District of New Jersey apply the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, the firm also works to present a compelling sentencing memorandum highlighting all mitigating factors if a conviction results.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands how the government builds its cases and brings that insight to his defense practice. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience across a range of federal criminal matters, and together they work to protect clients facing serious federal charges in the District of New Jersey. Each attorney’s background contributes to a collaborative approach that emphasizes thorough case analysis and individualized representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for trafficking in counterfeit goods under federal law?

Federal trafficking in counterfeit goods is a felony that can result in a prison term and substantial fines. The specific sentence depends on the amount of the loss, the number of items, and the defendant’s criminal history. Under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, a conviction may also lead to orders of restitution and forfeiture. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines provide an advisory range that the court must consider, and judges in the District of New Jersey weigh each case carefully. Because there is no parole in the federal system, an experienced federal defense lawyer can be essential to present the strongest possible mitigation. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does the federal government investigate counterfeit goods trafficking in New Jersey?

Investigations are typically led by Homeland Security Investigations or the FBI, often in coordination with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Agents may conduct undercover purchases, execute search warrants at warehouses or retail outlets, and inspect shipments arriving at New Jersey’s ports, particularly Port Newark–Elizabeth. They also use financial records to trace the movement of funds. Once an investigation is underway, the government can take months to build a case before seeking an indictment. Early legal guidance from a lawyer who handles federal cases in the District of New Jersey can help you understand your rights during this critical period. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer if I am being investigated for trafficking in counterfeit goods?

Yes, obtaining counsel at the first sign of an investigation is one of the most important steps you can take. Federal agents may seek to interview you, execute a search warrant, or issue a target letter. What you say or do before an attorney is involved can significantly affect the direction of the case. An experienced defense lawyer can communicate with the government on your behalf, work to preserve any potential defenses, and advise you on whether to cooperate or assert your right to remain silent. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are available for consultations at (888) 437-7747.

Can federal trafficking in counterfeit goods charges be dropped or reduced?

Charges may be challenged through pretrial motions, and the government may agree to reduce the charges in appropriate cases. The defense can move to dismiss an indictment if the government’s evidence is insufficient or if a legal defect appears on the face of the charging document. Additionally, sometimes the prosecution will agree to a plea to a lesser included offense, particularly if the defense can show weaknesses in the case or mitigating circumstances. Every case is fact-specific, and the approach depends heavily on the evidence and the client’s objectives. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.

What should I look for in a federal criminal defense lawyer in New Jersey?

Look for an attorney who routinely practices in federal court, understands the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and has experience handling the type of charges you face. Federal practice differs from state court in important ways—the rules of evidence, the pretrial process, and sentencing are all governed by federal law. An attorney familiar with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey will know the tendencies of the local judiciary and the practices of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to federal criminal defense. Results may vary. For information on representation, call (888) 437-7747.

How does the federal court process work in New Jersey for trafficking in counterfeit goods?

After an arrest or indictment, the case proceeds through an initial appearance, a detention hearing, discovery, motion practice, and possibly a trial before the District Court. The Speedy Trial Act imposes time limits, but the actual timeline varies by case complexity and the court’s calendar. Throughout the process, the defense works to challenge the government’s evidence, negotiate, or prepare for trial. Sentencing follows a conviction, and the court applies advisory guidelines. Because each stage can affect the final outcome, having steady guidance is important. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Primary Source References
U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey
18 U.S.C. § 2320 – Trafficking in counterfeit goods or services

Last reviewed: July 2026

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