Customs Fraud

Are You Entangled in Customs Scams?

Facing financial stress that has led you towards customs scams? It’s vital to understand the severe repercussions, like potential jail time, loss of import rights, and hefty fines. You don’t have to face these challenges on your own. At Logue Law Group, our experienced team of Kittanning criminal attorneys is here to help those accused of customs fraud.

Understanding Customs Fraud Law

When bringing goods into Kittanning, it’s illegal to use false, forged, or fraudulent documents, evade tariffs, or smuggle forbidden items. Prosecution for customs fraud can involve various federal laws concerning Kittanning trade, drug statutes, and rules for environmental and food safety. Charges of obstruction of justice bring even harsher penalties.

With the increase in imported goods to Kittanning, customs fraud has become more challenging to detect. Authorities rely on rigorous inspections, carefully examining documents for discrepancies, and using information from the False Claims Act. Common customs fraud schemes include:

• Misclassifying Cargo: Intentionally giving goods incorrect classifications to reduce or avoid tariffs, such as labeling televisions as lawnmowers to lower costs.
• Country of Origin Manipulation: Providing false origin details to bypass import quotas, often seen with food and clothing to avoid extra tariffs.
• Undervaluing Goods: Purposefully undervaluing goods to dodge proper tariff payments, significantly reducing import expenses.
• Evading Antidumping Duties: Diverting shipments through other countries to skirt antidumping fees.

Our Kittanning Logue Law Group, specializing in customs fraud investigations, comprehends the complex nature of these processes. Investigations typically begin when officials ask for more documentation to verify an importer’s claims about their cargo. If the paperwork falls short, officials may issue a pre-penalty demand, accusing the importer of fraud. To ensure adherence, customs authorities can impose full forfeiture or issue administrative summonses, halting the importation process until requirements are met. They also have the authority to reclassify goods and adjust the tariff rate. Importers can contest the assigned tariff rate but must submit the right documentation to do so.

What Are the Penalties?

For individuals accused of customs fraud, penalties vary based on the seriousness of the offense and the nature of the illicit shipment. These can include the forfeiture of import rights, significant fines, and imprisonment.

How a Kittanning Customs Fraud Attorney Can Assist

Facing the stringent laws and a determined prosecutor when charged with customs fraud can be daunting. That’s where Logue Law group, your seasoned Kittanning DUI lawyers, come in. We guide you through your options and aim for the most favorable outcome for your case. With our thorough understanding of Kittanning’s customs system intricacies, our skilled Kittanning criminal lawyers are prepared to achieve the best results in court.

Don’t leave your customs fraud case outcome to chance. Contact our Kittanning DUI lawyers and allow us to support you every step of the way, alleviating your concerns.

To find a Kittanning DUI lawyer in Kittanning, call us at 844.PITT.DUI or contact us online.