Cleveland Counterfeiting Attorney
Defense Against Charges of Trademark Counterfeiting (O.R.C. 2913.34)
Trademark counterfeiting is a serious crime that can damage you for the rest of your life. It covers a number of activities with penalties that are based on a number of different factors. Essentially, this crime exists to restrict activities such as mislabeling goods, usually (but not always) in order to sell them for more than they are worth; however, the specifics of your case will determine how you are charged. Ohio’s trademark counterfeiting statute applies broadly to acts that fraudulently represent a good or service under a counterfeit mark, logo, name, or other identifying information that the defendant is not legally authorized to use.
Specifically, the following conduct is prohibited when it is performed knowingly:
- Attach, affix, or otherwise use a counterfeit mark in connection with the manufacture of goods or services—even when they’re not intended for sale
- Possess, sell, or offer for sale tools, machines, instruments, materials, articles, or items of personal property knowing that they are designed for the production or reproduction of counterfeit marks
- Purchase or acquire goods knowing that a counterfeit mark is attached, with the intent to sell or transfer
- Sell, offer for sale, or otherwise dispose of goods knowing a counterfeit mark is attached to the goods
- Sell, offer for sale, or provide services with the knowledge that a counterfeit mark is used in connection with the sale, offer, or other provision of services.
If you’ve been charged with trademark counterfeiting charges under O.R.C. 2913.34 in Cleveland, you need a strong defense team that can shield you from the worst that the criminal justice system has to offer.
If you’ve been charged with counterfeiting, contact a Cleveland counterfeiting lawyer today.
How You Are Charged Depends on the Specifics of Your Case
Possessing, selling, or offering for sale instruments with counterfeit marks is a first-degree misdemeanor, as is knowingly purchasing such goods, or selling or offering to sell such goods or services, with a maximum sentence of six months. The penalties can be bumped up to a felony depending on the monetary value involved, meaning you could serve as long as a year in jail. For the manufacture of counterfeit marks, or affixing them to an instrument, you’ll be charged with at least a fifth-degree felony (up to one year in jail) with the possibility of it being charged as a fourth or third-degree felony depending on the money involved. Not only can you go to jail for as long as five years at the third-degree level, but you’ll have to deal with a felony record when you’re released.
Patituce & Associates, LLC can help you. If you need assistance with trademark counterfeiting charges, call (440) 771-1175 for a free consultation with an experienced Cleveland counterfeiting defense lawyer.
-
- Martha L.
Seeking representation for federal charges against my husband led me to engage with an attorney from this firm. Swiftly connected with Joe Patituce, we made the decision to enlist his services that very day, a choice we're grateful for.
-
- Cora B.
Their friendly and approachable team provided unwavering support. They worked diligently to build a robust defense, ensuring my side of the story was heard and considered!!!
-
- Former Client
Cate Purdum was present, attentive, always returned my calls (I had attorneys before who never call you back), answered my questions and never ignored my calls. If I ever need an attorney in the future I will definitely go back to her.
-
- Roberto M.
Catherine Meehan did an amazing job. Very responsive, friendly, and obviously very good with words. She kept me out of jail and home with my kiddo. For that I can't ever repay the favor. Much appreciated hope I never need your assistance again but if so I'll definitely give you a call. Thank you again.
-
- Thomas S.
I am very satisfied with Rachelle and Joe they were talking me through my whole case and when I told them I wanted a trial they agreed and said let’s go to trial with out hesitation they were very professional and I couldn’t ask for a better law firm to have my back in my court case thank you Rachelle and Joe I highly recommend them to everybody
-
- Levi G.
Joe helped my brother beat a serious RICO charge. He is simply the best criminal defense lawyer out there, and provides a clear-cut path to victory. I am extremely impressed and thankful for the hard work and dedication the team at Patituce & Associates put in on this case. It feels great to come out on the winning side, and not have to sweat a thing during the whole process. I highly recommend hiring Joe and his expert staff if you ever find yourself in any legal trouble. Thank you Joe!
-
So kind and helpful! Don’t know what I would’ve done without him. Joe was kind and informative throughout the whole- Maddy P.
-
- Glenn G.
I engaged Joe Patituce's services for my DUI case in Rocky River, and I couldn't have made a better choice. He and his team demonstrated excellence throughout, managing my case with remarkable skill and professionalism.