Customs Fraud

Are financial troubles pushing you into risky situations involving customs fraud? The repercussions can be grave, ranging from jail sentences, loss of import privileges, to substantial financial penalties. When faced with such challenges, it’s essential to have the right support. At Logue Law Group, our skilled criminal lawyer and defense team are here to provide you with the assistance you need to protect your rights.

What is Customs Fraud Law?

Customs fraud involves illegal activities like using counterfeit, forged, or falsified documents, evading tariffs, or engaging in smuggling. These actions contravene federal laws designed to protect commerce, maintain environmental safety, ensure food safety, and enforce drug laws. Organizations charged with obstruction of justice during customs inquiries often face even stricter penalties.

With the surge in imported goods passing through Indiana, scrutinizing suspicious activities becomes complex, making customs fraud more challenging to detect. Authorities conduct thorough inspections, cross-reference paperwork, and use the False Claims Act for additional oversight.

Below are some common methods of customs fraud authorities often investigate:

• Misclassifying Cargo

Importers may intentionally mislabel cargo to reduce or avoid tariffs. For example, falsely classifying a shipment of electronics as gardening tools to lower import costs.

• Country of Origin Falsification

Providing fake country of origin information to bypass quotas or tariffs. This is particularly prevalent in the food and apparel sectors.

• Undervaluing Goods

Deliberately underreporting the value of imported goods to avoid paying the correct tariff amount, resulting in significant cost reductions.

• Evading Antidumping Duties

Exporters or importers may reroute shipments through intermediary countries to circumvent paying hefty anti dumping fees.

Investigations into Customs Fraud

At our Indiana office, we have experienced Indiana PA DUI attorneys well-versed in customs fraud investigations. These inquiries often start when customs agents request supporting documents to verify the declarations made about an importer’s cargo. If the documentation fails to meet the required standards, customs authorities may issue a pre-penalty demand and charge the importer with fraud.

To ensure compliance, customs authorities might enact strict measures, including:

• Full Forfeiture or administrative summons that temporarily halt the importation process until requirements are met.
• Reclassification of Cargo, which involves assigning a corrected tariff category to the goods shipped.

Importers do have the legal right to contest the assigned tariff. However, such challenges require submitting detailed and accurate supporting documents—which our Indiana PA criminal lawyer team can help you prepare.

What Are the Penalties for Customs Fraud?

Penalties for customs fraud depend on the severity of the offense and the nature of the illegal goods involved. Potential consequences include:

• Loss of Import Privileges

Customs authorities may revoke your rights to import goods.

• Fines

Financial penalties can be severe, creating significant burdens for businesses.

• Imprisonment

Serious cases can lead to jail time, depending on the specific violations and associated criminal activities.

How an Indiana PA Customs Fraud Attorney Can Help

Facing the inflexible regulations surrounding customs fraud can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with determined prosecutors and a complex legal system. At Logue Law Group, we understand the intricacies of customs laws in Indiana. Our dedicated Indiana PA DUI attorney and criminal law experts will explain your legal options, plan an effective defense strategy, and work toward achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Here’s how we assist you:

• Case Evaluation

We’ll analyze the evidence thoroughly to build a solid defense.

• Navigation of Complex Laws

Our Indiana PA DUI attorneys know the ins and outs of customs regulations and penalties, ensuring you understand every step of the process.

• Protect Your Rights

Whether we’re disputing tariff classifications or negotiating plea bargains, our team ensures your rights are safeguarded throughout the legal proceedings.

Take the First Step Today

Don’t leave your future to chance. If you’re facing allegations of customs fraud, finding the right attorney is critical. Contact Logue Law Group to work with an experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer who will fight for you every step of the way.

Give us a call at 844.PITT.DUI or visit us online to schedule a consultation today. Protect your rights, safeguard your business, and secure peace of mind.