Customs Fraud

Are you struggling with severe financial challenges that have led to allegations of customs fraud? The consequences can be dire, potentially resulting in hefty penalties, the loss of import privileges, or even imprisonment. You don’t have to face these obstacles alone. AtLogue Law Group, we are committed to offering unparalleled support to individuals accused of customs fraud. With the guidance of our experienced attorneys, including our Erie criminal lawyer and skilled customs fraud lawyers, we’re here to help you during these trying times.

What is Customs Fraud Law?

Customs fraud occurs when individuals or entities engage in illegal activities while importing goods into the United States, including in Erie County. This may involve presenting forged or fraudulent documentation, smuggling contraband, or evading tariffs. Both state and federal laws strictly prohibit these activities, which can include violations tied to commerce regulations, drug statutes, environmental protection, and food safety standards. Importers charged with customs fraud may also face obstruction of justice accusations, which carry even harsher punishments.

With a growing volume of imported goods in areas like Erie County, detecting customs fraud has become more complex. Customs officials rely on several tools, including document reviews and the False Claims Act, to combat illegal activities. Some of the most common forms of customs fraud include:

Common Customs Fraud Practices:

1. Misclassifying Cargo

Assigning incorrect classifications to items to reduce or avoid tariff fees. For instance, declaring a shipment of electronics such as televisions as gardening tools like lawnmowers to benefit from lower tariffs.

2. Manipulating Country of Origin

Providing false country-of-origin details to bypass import quotas or higher tariffs. This is common for categories like food and clothing imports.

3. Undervaluing Goods

Deliberately underestimating the value of goods to reduce payable tariffs, thus significantly lowering the cost of importing.

4. Avoiding Antidumping Duties

Rerouting shipments through third-party countries to sidestep antidumping fees.

Our attorneys, including expert Erie criminal lawyers, are adept at navigating the complexities of customs fraud investigations, offering knowledgeable representation from the moment your case begins.

The Logue Law Group Approach to Investigations

Customs authorities initiate investigations carefully. These processes often start with requests for additional documents to verify the details pertaining to an importer’s cargo. If discrepancies arise, customs officials may issue pre-penalty demands, formally accusing the importer of customs fraud. Additional measures to ensure compliance may include:

• Full Cargo Forfeiture

Officials have the authority to seize goods completely until the importer meets all procedural requirements.

• Administrative Summons

Import processes may be temporarily halted by summonses enforcing compliance with regulations.

• Re-Classification & Tariffs

Authorities can reclassify goods under different tariff categories, assigning new rates based on the updated classification. While importers are within their rights to dispute the assigned tariff, doing so requires comprehensive documentation.

These investigations can be daunting, but with the expertise of a Logue Law Group, you’ll gain a clear understanding of your rights and the steps required to resolve your case efficiently.

What Are the Penalties for Customs Fraud?

The severity of penalties for customs fraud varies depending on the nature of the offense and the illicit cargo involved. Among the possible outcomes are:

• Loss of importation privileges
• Forfeiture of shipments
• Substantial fines
• Imprisonment

The regulations are stringent, making it essential to secure an experienced attorney as soon as possible to mitigate the impacts on your future.

How Can an Erie Customs Fraud Attorney Help?

Facing accusations of customs fraud can feel overwhelming, especially when met with inflexible laws and a zealous prosecutor. That’s why it’s crucial to partner with a law group like Logue Law Group, which has a strong grasp of customs fraud cases in Erie County. Our team, including our highly-rated Erie DUI attorney, will assist you by:

• Explaining the charges and outlining potential defenses
• Clarifying your options and designing a strategic response
• Representing you in court to achieve the most favorable outcome possible

With our thorough knowledge of the customs regulations in Erie County, we’re confident in delivering results that protect your rights and your livelihood.

Don’t Wait – Call Logue Law Group Today

Customs fraud cases are complex, but you don’t have to face the legal system alone. At Logue Law Group, we are here to provide the legal guidance, expertise, and support you need to defend your case successfully. Reach out to us today and speak with a qualified Erie criminal lawyer.

Contact us:

Call 844.PITT.DUI or connect with us online for a free consultation.

Take the first step toward protecting your rights with the support of the trusted attorneys at Logue Law Group.