Copyright infringement is the unauthorized use of works protected by copyright laws. Copyright laws grant exclusive rights to the copyright holder who is usually the creator. Copyright infringement often involves counterfeiting. Many items that appear to be authentic may indeed be counterfeit. This includes medicines (patent and Rx), auto parts, CD’s, music, clothing and just about anything that can be duplicated and sold. While many copyright infringement violations are resolved in civil court, cases involving counterfeiting of products are prosecuted in the criminal justice system. Generally, these cases are brought in federal court, particularly if the counterfeit items is a drug or dangerous substance.
Copyright infringement is also referred to as piracy, that is the unauthorized copying, distributing and selling works covered by the copyright of another. While a counterfeit t-shirt or handbag may not seem important enough to attract federal government attention, counterfeit heart medication or blood pressure pills could be fatal if not produced correctly.
At Neff & Sedacca, we have handled many counterfeiting cases covering everything from prescription medications to unauthorized championship football jerseys.
Confidential Consultation
If you believe that you are under investigation, have been subpoenaed before a grand jury or arrested and charged with a crime, contact Neff & Sedacca, PC for a confidential consultation by phone at (215) 563-9800 or email at info@NeffSedacca.com.