counterfeiting 

Copying a Trademark

Copying a trademarked item is a very common type of counterfeiting. This is typically where we see fake Gucci bags or other such merchandise. These reproductions can run the spectrum from not-a-very-good knockoff to virtually indistinguishable from the real deal. Many items in the fashion industry are typically involved with trademark copying cases. Sun glasses, purses, shoes, bags and other accessories are quite commonly counterfeited. If you’re facing charges for buying or selling counterfeited goods, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case.

Other Possible Counterfeiting Charges

Depending upon the details of your case, you could be facing a variety of other charges in addition to counterfeiting. You could also be charged with having possession of the tools used to counterfeit currency or other items. There could also be fraud charges involved. Make no mistake; the prosecutor will try to throw every possible charge available you. It isn’t enough that you’re facing a quarter-million dollars in fines and potentially decades behind bars, that’s just the beginning.

Counterfeiting Punishments

Counterfeiting, although it’s usually a non-violent crime, has incredibly harsh penalties. If convicted, you could be sentenced to 20 years in a federal prison, and that’s on top of fines that could reach up to $250,000. The U.S. Government takes counterfeiting incredibly seriously. Although it may not make any sense to you that you could be doing more time than somebody convicted of a violent crime like rape, it can happen. The best way to avoid these harsh punishments is to speak with an experienced and proven criminal defense attorney.