Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods or Services

In today’s globalized marketplace, the allure of lower prices can sometimes lead consumers down a dangerous path: the world trafficking of counterfeit goods. From knock-off handbags and electronics to fake pharmaceuticals and automotive parts. The proliferation of counterfeit products poses a significant threat to businesses, consumers, and the economy as a whole. While consumers may think they’re getting a bargain. However, the reality is that counterfeit goods often fund organized crime, endanger public health and safety, and undermine the integrity of brands. The federal government takes the trafficking of counterfeit goods extremely seriously. Furthermore, those involved in these illicit activities face severe penalties under 18 USC Section 2320. This law provides a powerful tool for prosecutors to combat the growing problem of counterfeiting. Also, understanding its implications is crucial for anyone involving in the manufacturing, distribution, or sale of goods and services.

At KAASS LAW, we dedicate to protecting our clients’ interests and providing comprehensive legal representation. Cases involving intellectual property rights and federal criminal charges, including those related to counterfeit goods. The following will dive into the intricacies of 18 USC Section 2320, exploring what constitutes trafficking in counterfeit goods, the potential consequences, and the importance of securing experienced legal counsel.

Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods or Services 18 USC Section 2320

According to Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods or Services law 18 USC Section 2320, you cannot knowingly and willfully perform, attempt, or conspire to perform any of acts listed below.

• traffic in goods or services and knowingly and willfully use a counterfeit mark on or in connection with such goods or services;
• traffic in stickers, labels, badges, wrappers, emblems, medallions, charms, boxes, containers, cans, hangtags, documentation, cases, or packaging of any type or nature, knowing that a counterfeit mark has been applied thereto, the use of which is likely to cause confusion, to cause mistake
• traffic in goods or services knowing that product is a counterfeit military good or service the use, malfunction, or failure of which is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury, impairment of combat operations, the disclosure of classified information or other significant harm to a combat operation, a member of the Armed Forces, or to national security
• traffic in a counterfeit drug.

Elements of Crimes Involved With Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods or Services

The the government must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt for convicting the defendant of federal counterfeiting:

• Defendant trafficked, attempted to traffic, or conspired to traffic in services, goods or drugs;
• Defendant counterfeit the goods, services or drugs from those lawfully created by the trademark owner of these goods, services, or drugs;
• Defendant was aware the goods, services or drugs were counterfeit
• Defendant intended for the goods, services, or l drugs to illegally pass as original, and be distributed as such.

Defenses to Federal Counterfeiting Charges

• The product was not counterfeit

In case the good, service, or drug was original and the attached trademark was genuine but was repackaged or altered after it was bought or distributed from the manufacturer, the defendant can’t be found guilty under 18 USC Section 2320.

• The defendant didn’t know that the product was counterfeit

This can be a valid defense in case the defendant can prove that he had a reasonable belief that the good, service or drug that he was selling was genuine.

Penalties for Trafficking in Goods and Services Under 18 USC Section 2320

• Up to ten years in federal prison
• A fine of up to $2 million

In case the defendant caused serious bodily injury he will face:

• Up to twenty years in federal prison
• A fine of up to $5 million

For second or subsequent offense for federal counterfeiting the defendant will face:

• Up to twenty years in federal prison
• A fine of up to $5 million

In case the defendant’s action caused another person’s death he will face:

• From 25 years to life in federal prison.

In case the defendant is convicted of counterfeiting drugs or military goods or services he will face:

• Up to twenty years in federal prison
• A fine of up to $5 million.

For the second or subsequent crime of counterfeiting drugs or military goods or services he will face:

• Up to thirty years in federal prison
• A fine of up to $15 million.

Contact Us

At KAASS LAW, we have extensive experience in handling cases involving intellectual property rights and federal criminal charges, including those related to counterfeit goods. We understand the complexities of 18 USC Section 2320 and commit to providing our clients with the highest quality legal representation. If you are facing allegations of trafficking in counterfeit goods, contact us today for a confidential consultation. Additionally, we offer consultation for anyone being accused of counterfeiting a prescription blank.

We will review your case, explain your options, and develop a personalized defense strategy to protect your rights and your future. Don’t face these serious charges alone. Let the experienced attorneys at KAASS LAW fight for you.