South Carolina Counterfeiting Lawyer

Creating or using counterfeit money and other products is a federal crime. When you face federal counterfeiting charges, you need a strong legal defense team to protect your rights. To try and mitigate the prevalence of counterfeiting and other types of forgery crimes, prosecutors seek harsh penalties for convicted defendants. You could face significant financial penalties, the loss of your constitutional rights, and a lengthy prison sentence.

Seasoned prosecutors with years of experience typically handle these federal cases. To protect your rights and secure your freedom, you need a determined South Carolina counterfeiting lawyer who knows how to navigate these charges. Speak with an experienced fraud attorney who could offer a clear picture of the next steps you should take in your case.

Counterfeiting Explained

Counterfeiting refers to the creation or sale of fake goods. Counterfeit products are often created to look like brand names or indicate they are something they are not. Items that are commonly created and sold as fraudulent imitations include clothing and technology. Counterfeiting is considered a very serious crime, and prosecutors will seek stiff penalties for anyone convicted of this offense.

Money Counterfeiting Under Federal Law

Under 18 U.S. Code § 471, the U.S. federal government has the sole and exclusive right to make, print, or coin any United States currency. This includes cash and coins as well as other valid currency like bonds, Treasury bills, Federal Reserve Notes, and more.

For a currency to be considered counterfeit, it must be similar enough to a real bill to confuse a regular citizen. It is also illegal to sell, exchange, transfer, or buy counterfeit money and securities. Charges may apply to anyone who counterfeits American money, both within and outside the United States and its territories.

Possession of Counterfeiting Tools

The mere possession of tools used to create counterfeit items or currency may constitute a criminal offense—regardless of whether a prosecutor can prove the defendant committed a counterfeiting crime. Presenting a strong defense to any type of counterfeiting charge in South Carolina is essential and best accomplished with the assistance of a defense attorney.

Defending Against Counterfeiting Charges in South Carolina

After somebody has been charged with a counterfeiting offense, they should move quickly to protect their rights. A knowledgeable attorney could employ various strategies to protect a defendant’s legal rights. Common defense tactics may include arguing that:

• There was no intent to defraud
• There was no effort to pass counterfeit currency off as real
• The quality of the counterfeit content is too poor to fool an ordinary person
• The product in question is not similar enough to any other product or currency

These potential defenses—and many others—may help the defendant fight against the prosecutor’s claims to get their charges either reduced or dismissed entirely. With a strong defense, a defendant may avoid prison time and the risk of extremely high fines. An experienced legal professional in South Carolina could review the circumstances of a counterfeiting charge to determine the best possible defense under the circumstances.

Get Help From a South Carolina Counterfeiting Attorney

When you face counterfeiting charges, you need a comprehensive defensive strategy. These charges can lead to hefty fines and a permanent mark on your criminal record. No matter your situation, you are entitled to competent legal representation.

An experienced South Carolina counterfeiting lawyer is available to discuss your charges and provide a path forward. Contact our office today.