Customs Fraud

If you’re currently dealing with urgent financial issues that have resulted in customs scams, the potential consequences can be quite severe. These may include serious penalties, loss of import privileges, and even jail time. However, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. At Logue Law Group, our team of highly experienced Washington customs fraud lawyers is dedicated to providing assistance to individuals accused of customs fraud. Reach out to us today and let us help you navigate through this difficult situation.

What is Customs Fraud Law?

Importing goods in Washington requires adherence to strict legal regulations. Engaging in fraudulent activities like using forged documents, evading tariffs, or smuggling contraband is not only unethical but also considered illegal. The repercussions of customs fraud can be severe, as it violates federal laws that protect commerce, drug laws, and regulations related to environmental and food safety.

To combat the rise in imported goods and the increasing complexity of customs fraud, customs authorities employ various strategies. Thorough inspections, meticulous scrutiny of paperwork for irregularities, and collaboration with the False Claims Act are among the measures taken to detect fraudulent activities. Let’s explore some common tactics employed by customs fraudsters:

• Misclassifying Cargo: Intentionally assigning incorrect classifications to artificially reduce or avoid tariffs. For instance, labeling a container of televisions as lawnmowers to pay lower tariffs.

• Country of Origin Manipulation: Providing false country of origin information to evade import quotas. This tactic is frequently observed in food and apparel imports to bypass additional tariffs.

• Undervaluing Goods: Purposefully undervaluing goods to evade accurate tariff payments, resulting in significant cost reductions for importers.

• Evading Antidumping Duties: Manipulating shipments through other countries to avoid paying antidumping fees.

At our reputable Washington law firm, our experienced PA DUI attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of customs fraud investigations. These investigations often begin with customs officials requesting additional documentation to verify the nature of the imported cargo. Failure to provide satisfactory evidence may result in customs officials issuing a pre-penalty demand, charging the importer with fraud. To ensure compliance, customs authorities can impose full forfeiture or issue administrative summons, temporarily halting the importation process until all requirements are fulfilled. In addition, customs authorities hold the power to reclassify the importer’s goods and assign them a corresponding tariff rate based on the revised classification. Importers have the right to challenge the assigned tariff rate; however, doing so requires the submission of appropriate supporting documentation.

What Will be the Penalty?

When importers face accusations of customs fraud, the penalties they may encounter depend on the severity of the offense and the nature of the illegal cargo. These penalties can range from the loss of importation privileges, hefty fines, and even imprisonment.

Ways in Which a Washington Customs Fraud Attorney Can Help

Dealing with inflexible laws and a determined prosecutor in the aftermath of customs fraud charges can be overwhelming. Fortunately, Logue Law, a reputable Washington PA criminal lawyer, is here to help. Our experienced team will carefully guide you through your available options, striving for the best possible outcome for your case. With our in-depth understanding of the complexities of the Washington customs system, our skilled lawyers are confident in their ability to achieve optimal results in court.

Don’t rely on chance for the outcome of your customs fraud case. Take the first step and reach out to our dedicated Washington PA criminal lawyers. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, alleviating your concerns and providing peace of mind.

To connect with a customs fraud lawyer in Washington, give us a call at 844.PITT.DUI or contact us online.