AVVO Talk: What Kind of Attorney/Lawyer Do I Need to Deal With Import & Export?

Question Continued: Long story short, I have imported couple handbags, jewlery etc from overseas. Few items are replica. U.S. Custom has seized my shipment. Sent me a letter and asking for a lot of money and an agreement by attorney to get shipment release. I need professional help, what kind of lawyer deals with import and export, to and from United States?

Also how long it takes to get this issue resolved in term of time frame?

Deanna's Response:

Hello,

 You need an International Trade Attorney to help you with this customs seizure and penalty/notice of liquidated damages, and since you can approach dealing with this in a few different ways - see the additional sheets (that they had received from US Customs) with the seizure notice related to forfeiture, submitting a petition, or administrative review - and need to do so soon, you will want to speak with an attorney sooner than later. Infringement can also lead to personal liability, in terms of money, and even criminal liability in cases where fraud is found, which you should also be aware of.