Criminal Defense Lawyers

Avoiding Charges for Selling Fake Designer Handbags and Wallets

Avoiding Charges for Selling Fake Designer Bags

Selling knockoff designer bags and wallets can seem like an easy way to make some quick cash. The bags look almost identical to the real thing and cost a fraction of the price to make. So you can buy them cheap from a wholesaler and sell them for a nice profit, right? Not so fast.

Selling counterfeit goods is illegal. You can face civil lawsuits or even criminal charges for trafficking in fakes. The risks are real, even if it seems like no big deal. So before you try to sell that fake Louis Vuitton on eBay, here’s what you need to know.

It’s a Form of Fraud

Trying to pass off a counterfeit product as the real thing is considered fraud under the law. When you sell a knockoff, your representing that it’s a genuine product from the brand. But it’s not. That’s lying to the customer.

The brands themselves have legal rights to their trademarks, logos, and designs. By making and selling counterfeit versions, your infringing on those rights. That opens you up to civil lawsuits for damages from the brand owners.

You Could Face Criminal Charges

In some cases, selling counterfeit goods can even lead to criminal charges. Trafficking in fakes may violate criminal laws against fraud, counterfeiting, or trademark infringement. The penalties can include hefty fines or even jail time.

For example, if your caught bringing counterfeit products into the U.S. for sale, you could face federal smuggling charges. That crime carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2 million fine. Not worth the risk just to sell some fake handbags!

Your Goods Could Be Seized

Customs agents are on the lookout for counterfeit imports. If they catch you with fake designer merchandise, not only could you be arrested – they can seize the goods too.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

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2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

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2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

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2024-03-12

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

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2024-02-24

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And its not just at the border. Police can confiscate counterfeit products being sold inside the country as well. So you could lose your whole inventory of “luxury” items in an instant.

You Won’t Get Your Money Back

Lets say you bought a shipment of knockoff watches to resell online. Then customs seizes them at the port. Not only are you out the watches…you also won’t get back what you paid the supplier!

So that’s money down the drain. And if you already resold some of the watches, you may have to refund those customers while eating the loss yourself.

You Could Be Sued by Customers

Angry customers who realize they were duped may decide to take legal action against you. Under consumer protection laws, they can sue for compensation in civil court.

And if you made money from the scheme, you may have pay back those profits as damages. Plus any legal fees they incurred by having to take you to court.

Reselling Authentic Items is Safer

Rather than risk jail time or lawsuits selling fakes, consider reselling genuine pre-owned designer items instead. Sites like The RealReal, Tradesy, and Vestiaire Collective connect buyers and sellers of authenticated luxury goods.

The products cost a bit more than knockoffs. But they hold their value better and are less likely to get you in legal trouble! Just do your due diligence to avoid buying counterfeits unknowingly.

Get Legal Advice if Charged

If authorities do go after you for trafficking in fakes, don’t panic. Get experienced legal counsel right away. An attorney can advise you on the best defense strategy.

For example, they may be able to negotiate a settlement or plea bargain to reduce the penalties. Or challenge the validity of any criminal charges filed against you. Don’t try to handle such a case 100% on your own.

Think Twice Before Selling Fakes

At the end of the day, selling counterfeit bags and accessories is risky business. The potential profits usually don’t outweigh the legal consequences if caught.

Do your homework before assuming you can buy cheap fakes from China and flip them for big money. Getting sued or arrested could end up costing you far more in the long run!