Customs Fraud

Are you facing pressing financial problems that have led you into customs scams? The consequences can be severe, including jail time, loss of import privileges, and heavy penalties. Don’t face these challenges alone. At Logue Law Group, we are dedicated to helping individuals accused of customs fraud. Our team of experienced Washington customs fraud lawyers is here to assist you.

What is Customs Fraud Law?

When it comes to importing goods in Washington, using fraudulent, forged, or phony documents, evading tariffs, or smuggling contraband, the law is clear – it’s illegal. Prosecution for customs fraud relies on various federal laws, including those protecting commerce in Washington, drug laws, and regulations ensuring environmental and food safety. Importers charged with obstruction of justice face even harsher penalties.

With the increase in imported goods in Washington, customs fraud has become more difficult to detect. Customs authorities rely on thorough inspections, including scrutinizing paperwork for irregularities, and leveraging information provided by the False Claims Act. Some common customs fraud tactics include:

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

• Country of Origin Manipulation: Deliberately providing false country of origin information to evade import quotas. This is frequently seen with food and apparel imports to avoid additional tariffs.

• Undervaluing Goods: Purposefully undervaluing goods to evade paying accurate tariffs, significantly reducing import costs.

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

At our Washington firm, our Washington PA DUI attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of investigations pertaining to customs fraud. These investigations typically commence when customs officials request additional documentation to substantiate an importer’s claims about the nature of their cargo. When the supporting paperwork fails to satisfy the officials, they may issue a pre-penalty demand, charging the importer with fraud. To compel compliance, the customs authorities can impose full forfeiture or issue administrative summons, temporarily halting the importation process until the importer fulfills the requirements. Additionally, the customs authorities hold the authority to re-classify the importer’s goods and assign them a corresponding tariff rate based on the new classification. Importers have the right to challenge the assigned tariff rate, but doing so necessitates the submission of appropriate documentation.

What Will be the Penalty?

When importers are accused of customs fraud, the severity of the offense and illegal cargo will determine the federal penalties they face. These penalties may involve the loss and forfeiture of importation privileges, fines, and imprisonment.

Ways in Which a Washington Customs Fraud Attorney Can Help

Facing inflexible laws and a determined prosecutor after being charged with customs fraud can be daunting. That’s where Logue Law, an experienced Washington PA criminal lawyer, comes in. We will guide you through your options and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. With our deep understanding of the complexities of the Washington customs system, our skilled lawyers are confident in their ability to achieve the finest results in court.

Don’t leave the outcome of your customs fraud case to chance. Reach out to our Washington PA criminal lawyers and let us support you every step of the way, relieving you of your worries.

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