Customs detentions, seizures, and penalties

Ordinarily, before the Government seizes any imported goods, there is a stage called “detention.” This is an important stage as it is an opportunity to prevent your goods from Customs seizure. Why? If goods are seized, even with prompt notice and resolution of the dispute, it can take months to retrieve your goods. In some instances, seizure cases are not resolved in six months or even longer. This is why the detention stage is critical. Many times, within the initial “30-day detention” period, the matter can be resolved without resulting in a seizure. Do not wait until it is too late and your goods are seized.

At such a critical stage in your Customs case, it makes sense to find a law firm that not only handles these specific legal issues but handles them well. Since 1933, Stein Shostak Shostak Pollack & O’Hara, LLP, has handled Customs detention and seizure-related cases. As a well-respected, worldwide Customs practice, we can help you with detentions, seizures or penalties at any port in the U.S. We also maintain an office in Shanghai. Our China partner is licensed in the U.S. and has more than 20 years of experience. He speaks Mandarin and English fluently.

Avoid the “black hole” of seizure and take legal action immediately. We cannot stress enough how important it is to take the necessary steps during the detention stage. Tell us about your Customs detention case today and we will help you seek a swift resolution.

Customs detention issues often involve:

  • Quantity discrepancies
  • Trademark infringement
  • Copyrights and licensing
  • Gray and parallel goods
  • Admissibility of endangered species, food, drugs and toys

Our attorneys can take action and administrative steps during the detention period which will give the client a right to take judicial action if the government detains goods for too long. Skillful litigation by our lawyers has resulted in the Government releasing goods and paying court costs and our attorney’s fees.

Do Not Let Your Goods Get Forfeited

The smallest problem with imported products can result in catastrophic consequences for an importer. A government that broadly construes enforcement under our import laws is a powerful bureaucracy to face.

One of our seasoned attorneys can discuss your Customs seizure case with you and go over your options. If you do nothing when your goods are seized, the government will forfeit the merchandise and may issue a penalty down the road.

Customs Penalties

At Stein Shostak Shostak Pollack & O’Hara, LLP, we have represented importers disputing customs penalties since 1933. Since 1996, representing importers accused of importing counterfeit goods into the United States has become a major part of our customs law practice. We not only enjoy a loyal client base, but also a strong referral network.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a powerful bureaucracy. Importers can feel forced to follow the agency’s initial decisions without any dispute. Unfortunately, acquiescing to the government can lead to enormous civil penalties especially after an importer fails to challenge a seizure. We take on the government on behalf of our clients to mitigate or eliminate penalties. We understand the stakes and pursue the best outcome with minimal impact to an importer’s bottom line.

Tell Us About Your Detention, Seizure, or Penalty Case

If you are interested in contacting us in Los Angeles, call 213-630-8888. We also have an international law office in Shanghai. Speak to one of our lawyers with significant experience in resolving these types of cases.