Customs Violations run a gauntlet of seriousness in the severity of their nature. Often times, a customs violation is the result of nothing more than an improperly filed customs declaration entailing a mistake or omission, and usually results in either no penalty or a small fine. Larger Customs Violations are of a much more serious nature. These commonly include failing to declare money when entering or exiting the country, the importation of goods without the proper quota or visa, trying to import or export pharmaceuticals without declaring them or having a valid prescription, attempting to bring contraband, such as illegal drugs or guns into the country, and attempting to smuggle plants and wildlife, including exotics and endangered animals, into the US.
Other forms of customs violations pertain more to businesses than individuals. Some examples of these forms are covering up or destroying proof of goods that have been imported into the U.S., exporting stolen goods, filing false claims for the payment of exported goods, importing stolen good, and smuggling illegal goods with legal imports.
Customs Violations Penalties
Customs violations charges vary greatly depending on the type and size of the offense, and can carry a number of different charges for a single incident.
Possible Penalties
1. Depending the exact federal laws violated, incarceration is mostly likely to occur, and in cases of illegal contraband, twenty-five (25) years to life imprisonment are the most common maximum penalties faced
2. Fines related to specific crimes can range in the millions of dollars in cases of enterprise-level customs violations
3. Seizure of goods, whether legitimate or contraband, also occurs frequently
Customs Violations Sentencing
When sentencing a defendant accused customs violations, federal prosecutors will look over the very unique aspects of each individual case. In some instances, a federal prosecutor may issue suspended sentencing or reduced sentencing, if the defendant cooperates with the prosecution and provides information about an ongoing customs violation criminal enterprise. Moreover, judge may also be more lenient on first-time offenders and offenders committed minor customs violations. Having legal counsel is essential in highlighting the mitigating factors that may reduce a defendant’s sentence.
Get legal help for Customs Violations
Customs violation charges greatly range due to a number of factors. If you are facing counterfeiting charges, it is imperative that you seek the representation of an experienced lawyer who can protect your rights and guarantee you get a fair trial.
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