Counterfeiting Defense Attorney in Douglas County

Regain Control When Facing Counterfeiting Charges

Being accused of counterfeiting in Douglas County can leave you feeling anxious about your future and unsure of what to do next. The criminal justice system here is complex and intimidating, and the penalties of a conviction are severe. 

At Howard Law Group, we understand exactly how much your reputation, freedom, and financial stability are at risk. Our team of attorneys is here to help you find clarity and make informed decisions throughout your case.

Our counterfeiting defense attorneys in Douglas County provide direct, attorney-led representation for these serious allegations. With experience on both the prosecutorial and defense sides, our attorneys understand how these cases are built and challenged at every stage. 

We know the Douglas County Superior Court process, the approaches common among local law enforcement, and how to protect your rights from the start. You will always work directly with an attorney who is dedicated to your defense—not a paralegal or distant associate.

Don't risk a felony conviction. Call (678) 922-9743 or contact our firm online for a free initial consultation. Benefit from the powerful perspective of former prosecutors and over a decade of legal experience on your side, with emergency appointments offered for immediate defense.

Understanding Counterfeiting Laws in Georgia

In Georgia, the charge of counterfeiting falls primarily under two different sections of the law, depending on the type of item involved: Forgery (Title 16) for money and documents, and Offenses Against Trademarks/Copyrights (Title 10) for unauthorized goods. An effective Douglas County counterfeiting lawyer must be proficient in both statutes.

1. Counterfeiting as Forgery (O.C.G.A. § 16-9-1)

When the term "counterfeiting" applies to items of value like currency, checks, stamps, seals, or credit cards, it is prosecuted under Georgia's Forgery laws. The law defines "writing" broadly to include money and other symbols of value.

• First Degree Forgery (Felony): Occurs when a person, with the intent to defraud, knowingly makes, alters, or possesses any writing (other than a check) in a fictitious name or in a way that purports it to have been made by another person, and then utters or delivers that writing (i.e., attempts to pass or use the counterfeit item). Counterfeit currency is typically charged as First Degree Forgery, carrying up to 15 years in prison.
• Second Degree Forgery (Felony): Involves the same criminal act (making, altering, or possessing) without the step of uttering or delivering the forged item. Simple possession of a counterfeit item with intent to defraud can be Second Degree Forgery.
• Third/Fourth Degree Forgery (Felony/Misdemeanor): Relates specifically to the making, altering, possessing, or uttering of forged checks, with the degree dependent on the check amount (over or under $1,500).

2. Counterfeiting of Goods (O.C.G.A. § 10-1-454)

This statute specifically targets the manufacturing, possessing, or selling of goods that bear a forged or counterfeit trademark, service mark, or copyrighted design. This is often referred to as trademark counterfeiting.

• Felony Offense: If the total retail sale value of the counterfeit goods involved is $10,000 or more, the crime is classified as a felony, punishable by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than ten years.
• Misdemeanor: If the retail sale value is less than $10,000, it is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

Our firm defends against both types of counterfeiting charges by challenging the crucial element of intent to defraud and the method used to calculate the value of the alleged counterfeit items.

Counterfeiting cases in Douglas County are typically prosecuted in the Douglas County Superior Court. If evidence indicates a larger or interstate issue, federal prosecution may be possible, often referred to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Counterfeiting Convictions in Douglas County

A conviction for counterfeiting or forgery in Georgia carries extremely harsh penalties, often resulting in decades-long consequences for the accused. This is why immediate engagement with a proven Douglas County counterfeiting lawyer is essential.

Direct Penalties

• First Degree Forgery (Felony): 1 to 15 years in Georgia State Prison.
• Second/Third Degree Forgery (Felony): 1 to 5 years in State Prison.
• Counterfeit Goods (Felony, over $10,000 value): 1 to 10 years in State Prison.

In addition to incarceration, fines for counterfeiting and trademark offenses can be tens of thousands of dollars, plus the mandatory requirement for restitution to the alleged victims, which can include the cost of the goods and lost profits.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond direct penalties, a felony counterfeiting conviction will permanently tarnish your name, leading to:

• Immigration Issues: Counterfeiting is often classified as a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT), which can lead to deportation proceedings for non-citizens.
• Employment: Complete restriction from working in financial services, banking, accounting, or any field involving handling money or sensitive documents.
• Loss of Rights: As a felony, a conviction results in the temporary loss of voting rights and the permanent loss of firearm rights.
• Federal Prosecution: Because counterfeiting money or federal documents falls under federal jurisdiction, State charges are often followed by federal indictments. Our firm is prepared to handle both levels of defense.

The Douglas County Defense Process for Counterfeiting Cases

A successful defense against counterfeiting requires a defense team that is proactive, meticulous, and fully prepared to litigate complex financial and evidentiary issues in Douglas County Superior Court.

1. Immediate Investigation and Evidence Review

The moment we are retained, our firm focuses on preserving evidence and building a narrative that counters the State's presumption of guilt. We immediately interview witnesses, secure necessary financial records, and—where appropriate—engage forensic accounting or handwriting experts. This is especially vital in forgery cases. Emergency appointments are offered to ensure this critical work begins immediately.

2. Challenging Warrants and Police Conduct

Many counterfeiting cases involve searches of homes or businesses and the seizure of computers, printers, and manufacturing equipment. Our firm scrutinizes the search warrants and the police affidavit for any lack of probable cause or procedural error that could lead to the suppression of evidence under the Fourth Amendment.

3. Disputing Intent and Knowledge

In court, we systematically introduce evidence to negate the essential element of intent to defraud or knowledge that the item was counterfeit.

Our firm may present evidence of accidental possession, co-mingled evidence, or demonstrate that the item was not presented in a way meant to deceive (e.g., used as a novelty item).

4. Negotiating Case Dismissal or Reduction

While we are always trial-ready, our firm aggressively pursues pre-trial resolutions. By demonstrating the weakness of the State’s case (specifically, the difficulty of proving intent or knowledge), we often secure agreements that involve:

• A dismissal of the charges.
• A reduction of the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor.
• Entry into a pre-trial diversion program, which can result in the case being dropped after successful completion.

Why Choose Our Team for Your Counterfeiting Defense

Selecting a counterfeiting defense attorney in Douglas County can shape everything about your experience, from stress levels to possible results. What sets Howard Law Group apart is our attorneys’ insight gained from serving as both prosecutors and defenders.

Every client at our firm has direct access to a seasoned attorney who personally manages the defense. We don’t pass you off to paralegals or assistants—your lawyer is with you from start to finish. Each case receives a custom strategy that fits your circumstances and supports what matters most to you.

We have successfully resolved criminal cases at municipal, state, and federal levels in Georgia, including within Douglas County. Our goal is to provide robust defense without causing financial hardship. By focusing on cost-effective solutions and personal advocacy, Howard Law Group works to protect your well-being every step of the way.

Contact Our Douglas County Counterfeiting Defense Attorneys

If you find yourself facing a counterfeiting allegation in Douglas County, taking smart, early steps gives you the best chance at a positive resolution. Acting with caution and speed can help protect your future and prevent avoidable mistakes.

Here are the most important things you should do:

• Do not speak to police or investigators until you have legal counsel. Statements you provide may be used against you, even if you simply want to cooperate.
• Collect and organize any documents or evidence related to the charge. That includes communications, bank records, or items police have mentioned.
• Contact a counterfeiting defense attorney in Douglas County as soon as possible. Legal counsel familiar with the local court process acts quickly to protect your interests.
• Limit all conversations about your case to your attorney. Even trusted friends or colleagues could be questioned, so keep discussions confidential and focused on those with legal privilege.

If you are facing counterfeiting charges in Douglas County, taking the first step is essential. Contact Howard Law Group for a confidential consultation and get answers from an attorney familiar with local courts and prosecutors. With our team on your side, you benefit from direct legal support, a strategy informed by years of courtroom experience, and unwavering dedication to your well-being.

Call Howard Law Group now at (678) 922-9743 for skilled defense from a counterfeiting defense attorney in Douglas County.