Charged with a White-Collar Offense or Counterfeiting in Rockingham County? We’ll Fight to Protect Your Future
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are aggressive and relentless in defending clients charged in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, particularly those facing counterfeiting allegations and other White‑Collar Crimes. With experience as trial attorneys and a former prosecutor, our team brings an insider’s perspective—and we use it to your advantage.
Your Strategic Defense in Rockingham County
Our approach is straightforward: treat your case as if our reputation depends on it, because it does. We handle matters arising in Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, Salem, and all across Rockingham County.
When you’re charged with counterfeiting—whether for reproducing currency, clothing, trademarks, or packaging—you’re up against serious misdemeanor or felony charges under RSA 638:6‑b. Each counterfeit item can count as a separate offense. If you’re caught with more than 25 items, the law assumes intent to distribute.
That means a single mistake can snowball into multiple counts, and possibly a felony. Even first-time charges carry steep penalties: prosecution as a Class A misdemeanor on the first offense, or as a Class B felony if you’re convicted again. This can result in heavy fines, restitution obligations, and serious jail time. Additionally, seized goods—like fake designer bags or counterfeit documents—are subject to forfeiture. We understand how overwhelming this can feel and why you need a team that pushes back smartly and strategically.
Tailored Defense Strategies from Day One
From the moment we take on your case, we develop a tailored defense strategy designed specifically for your situation. We begin with an in-depth review of all available evidence, carefully analyzing police reports, search and seizure procedures, and the chain of custody to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
When charges involve allegations of counterfeit intent, we scrutinize whether the items in question meet the legal definition of a “counterfeit mark,” particularly in cases where the markings are vague or contested. Throughout the process, we actively engage with prosecutors to negotiate reduced or dismissed charges, often by challenging the strength, legality, or intent behind the evidence.
If negotiations don’t yield fair results, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight aggressively on your behalf. And when conviction is unavoidable, we shift focus to sentencing, advocating for reduced penalties, lighter restitution, and alternatives to incarceration whenever possible.
Why Choose Our Firm?
Our firm is deeply focused on white-collar criminal defense. It’s not a side practice, it’s the heart of what we do. We routinely handle complex cases involving fraud, deceptive business practices, forgery, and counterfeit goods, bringing a high level of skill and experience to every case.
With a strong foundation in Rockingham County, we understand how local prosecutors and judges operate in places like Brentwood and Portsmouth, allowing us to build more strategic and informed defenses. One of our attorneys is a former prosecutor, giving us critical insight into how cases are constructed—and how to dismantle them effectively.
Most importantly, we put our clients first. You’re never treated like just another file: we provide a clear plan of action, consistent communication, and ensure you’re actively involved in every step of your defense.
Counterfeiting Defense in Plain English
You might be charged under RSA 638:6‑b for:
- Making, distributing, selling, or possessing goods with a counterfeit mark.
- Carrying more than 25 marked items, triggering presumptions of intent
- Each item is a separate offense, and each can carry jail time.
Our job is to help you beat the presumption of intent. That might mean proving you didn’t plan to sell, demonstrating mislabeling, or showing you lacked awareness. If the items were seized without a proper legal process, we can challenge that, too.
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you face counterfeiting charges—or related crimes like forgery or deceptive business practices—don’t wait. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson will fight for your rights, examine every angle, and guide you through the legal process in Rockingham County. We believe in defense that’s personal, precise, and powerful.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward a strong defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a counterfeit mark in New Hampshire?
A counterfeit mark is a label or symbol that’s identical to or nearly identical to a registered trademark. It is used on goods in a way likely to confuse or deceive consumers. Even if you didn’t know it was registered, you can still be charged.
Can I go to jail for a first counterfeit offense?
Yes. The first offense is typically a Class A misdemeanor, which can carry up to a year in jail. A second offense upgrades to a Class B felony, with significantly harsher penalties.
How does the 25‑item rule affect my case?
If law enforcement seized more than 25 items bearing counterfeit marks, the law presumes you intended to sell—unless your attorney can provide credible evidence to the contrary.
What happens to fake goods after seizure?
Under RSA 638:6‑b, all counterfeit items are subject to forfeiture. Typically, courts order these items destroyed or disposed of (with input from the trademark holder).
Do I need a local Rockingham County criminal defense attorney?
Yes. Federal or general attorneys may lack specific knowledge of RSA 638:6‑b and local defense strategies. We focus exclusively on criminal defense, especially white‑collar cases in Rockingham County.