When you are facing counterfeiting charges, you need to be aware of the implications of what you are dealing with. Counterfeiting is a serious, federal-level offense. Conviction may lead to prison time, so it may be beneficial for you to develop a defense strategy. Learning as much as you can about the charges against you may be the first step in the right direction.
What is counterfeiting?
Counterfeiting refers to the production of fake items, then presenting them as genuine. There are several types of counterfeiting that may come in conjunction with other white-collar charges. Combined, these could increase the severity of the potential penalties you may face.
As a federal crime, a counterfeiting charge can lead to imprisonment, fines and other consequences that may impact you negatively for the rest of your life.
What is a federal counterfeit offense?
There may be more to federal counterfeiting charges than fake paintings, purses and jewelry. This is because the charges are often connected to the production, possession and use of counterfeit documents with the purpose of committing fraud against the federal government.
Counterfeiting often involves other related criminal activities. These activities may result in separate and additional charges, including possession of counterfeit goods and the tools used in their production, creating and presenting a fake document as genuine, producing fraudulent bills, instruments or notes and the creation and use of counterfeit money substitutes.
The prosecution may use a combination of charges, so developing a defense strategy soon after your arrest may be beneficial.
How does a conviction affect your future?
A counterfeiting conviction may result in a federal prison sentence and fines. Apart from these, you may also suffer from reputation damage and limited opportunities in the future. It may be best to act quickly to defend your rights and interests in a timely manner.
Counterfeiting is a serious crime, but with the right defense strategy, you may be able to reduce the risk of a conviction and keep your future bright.
