Counterfeiting is a crime in the state of Connecticut. If you have been charged with counterfeiting, you probably want to learn more about it. Understanding the definition of counterfeiting, penalties that you might face, and how to defend yourself are important. You can find this information and more by speaking with a Connecticut counterfeiting lawyer.

What is Counterfeiting?

Counterfeiting, in its most basic form, is the imitation of something else. This means that products that are counterfeit are fakes that emulate a real product. For example, you might see fake Coach wallets and Prada bags on the streets of New York City. Or, you might hear about people accused of counterfeiting fake money. This offense is a criminal act because it seeks to take away the value of the real product that it is imitating.

Counterfeit Products

The term counterfeit can refer to things like:

• Clothing.
• Accessories.
• Jewelry.
• Shoes.
• Currency.
• Documents.
• Art.
• Movies.
• Software.
• Toys.

Many times, counterfeit products have fake company brand names and logos on them. This can result in trademark and patent infringement.

One major problem caused by counterfeiting is injury to consumers. Counterfeit products are almost always of poorer quality than the originals, which can result in faulty products that can cause harm to consumers.

Penalties for Counterfeiting US Currency

Counterfeiting U.S. currency is a very serious crime. If convicted, you face a fine of as much as $250,000 and a 20 year prison sentence. Counterfeiting other products will result in the same consequences, but if this crime results in the gain or loss of someone who is not the defendant in the case, the penalties can be even more severe.

Contact a Connecticut Counterfeiting Attorney

Obviously, if you face a counterfeit charge, you want to avoid being convicted. The penalties can be severe, and you don’t want to face those fines and prison time. The best way that you can defend yourself is by hiring a criminal defense lawyer. While each case is different, and there are no guarantees, hiring a lawyer is your best chance of avoiding conviction or serious penalties. For the help that you need, contact our office today so that a lawyer can get started defending you.