Counterfeiting Defense Attorney in Kentucky

Facing Counterfeiting Allegations? Count on Decades of Legal Experience

If you face accusations tied to counterfeiting in Kentucky, you need clear guidance and hands-on support. At William M. Butler, Jr., Attorney at Law, our clients benefit from more than 35 years of trial work developed exclusively in criminal defense. Led by founding attorney William M. Butler—named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers—our team brings a strong focus and personal attention to every counterfeiting matter, whether the charge falls under state or federal law.

Counterfeiting charges often lead to complicated investigations and aggressive prosecution. Because Kentucky courts may examine digital evidence and financial records differently from other states, your defense should account for these local nuances. We support you with answers to your questions, a full explanation of the process, and a well-constructed defense tailored to the unique practices of Kentucky and federal courts.

Our firm has a proven record of success and over 35 years of experience to begin building your defense. Call the Law Office of William M. Butler at (502) 237-0871 or contact us online today and let a counterfeiting defense attorney in Kentucky start fighting for your freedom.

How Counterfeiting Cases Work in Kentucky Courts

Kentucky law defines counterfeiting as the creation, possession, or use of false money, securities, documents, or trademarks with the intent to defraud. Prosecutors may file charges under Kentucky statutes or federal law based on the alleged conduct and jurisdiction. Kentucky State Police or federal agents, such as the Secret Service or FBI, often investigate these cases, especially if they involve large-scale activities or cross state lines.

A skilled counterfeiting defense attorney in Kentucky must be familiar with all the ways the state can pursue these charges, including:

• Forgery in the First Degree (KRS § 516.020): This is the most severe level of forgery and includes a wide range of criminal acts, such as the forging of money, stamps, securities, or other valuable instruments issued by a government. This is a Class C felony, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison.
• Forgery in the Second Degree (KRS § 516.030): This includes the forgery of documents like deeds, wills, contracts, credit cards, or public records. This is a Class D felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison.
• Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument (KRS § 516.050, 516.060, 516.070): This charge applies when you knowingly possess a forged document with the intent to defraud. The severity of the charge depends on the type of instrument possessed.
• Counterfeiting Intellectual Property (KRS § 365.241): This law makes it a crime to manufacture, use, or sell any item that you know bears a counterfeit trademark or other intellectual property. A conviction can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the number of items or their retail value.

It is important to understand that counterfeiting is also a serious federal offense, particularly when it involves U.S. currency or securities. Federal charges can lead to even more severe penalties, including fines of up to $250,000 and 20 years in prison. A knowledgeable Kentucky counterfeiting defense lawyer will be prepared to handle both state and federal charges and will advise you on the best course of action.