Nationwide Customs Fraud Law Firm Serving Whistleblowers Across the U.S.

Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight is a nationally recognized customs fraud law firm with a proven record of holding companies accountable for evading U.S. tariffs and import duties. Our experienced customs fraud whistleblower lawyers help courageous insiders across the country expose schemes that cheat the government – and we ensure those whistleblowers are protected and rewarded for doing the right thing. If you have knowledge of a company skirting customs duties through false declarations or undervalued imports, our team is here to guide you. We bring decades of experience and the highest level of skill in False Claims Act litigation, having successfully handled some of the largest customs fraud cases on record.

We have a nationwide scope, with local insight: With offices from coast to coast, we represent whistleblowers in customs fraud matters involving all industries and ports of entry, from high-tech electronics to jewelry and apparel imports. No matter where you are, you can count on our authoritative, trusted counsel to navigate the complex intersection of trade regulations and whistleblower law.

What is Customs Fraud?

Customs Fraud is an illegal attempt by importers, exporters, or manufacturers to evade paying rightful tariffs and taxes on goods entering the United States. Common customs fraud schemes include misclassifying products under incorrect tariff codes, undervaluing goods on invoices, falsifying country-of-origin labels, or smuggling items to bypass duties. These practices not only violate federal law – they undercut fair competition for American businesses and deprive U.S. taxpayers of revenue. The primary legal weapon in the fight against customs fraud perpetrated against the U.S. government is the  False Claims Act (FCA) (FCA), 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733. While often associated with fraud involving government payments (like Medicare fraud), the FCA is equally potent in addressing situations where entities defraud the government by failing to pay money owed to it. Customs fraud cases typically fall under the “reverse false claims” provision of the FCA, specifically 31 U.S.C. § 3729(a)(1)(G).

Thanks to whistleblowers, the government can recover unpaid duties when importers knowingly evade tariffs (with fines often tripled, as FCA penalties allow). At Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, we understand the nuances of customs and trade laws – including tariff schedules, the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS), anti-dumping/countervailing duties (AD/CVD) orders, and special trade programs – and we use that knowledge to build powerful cases on behalf of our clients.

By coming forward, you are not only doing the right thing; you could also be entitled to a significant financial reward. Under the FCA, whistleblowers (also called “relators”) can receive 15% to 30% of the government’s recovery, which in customs fraud cases can amount to millions of dollars for the whistleblower. Our firm will work tirelessly to maximize your potential reward while safeguarding your rights.

Table 1: Common Customs Fraud Schemes at a Glance

To provide a clearer understanding of these illicit activities and how whistleblowers can play a pivotal role in their detection, the following table summarizes common customs fraud schemes:

This table illustrates not only the fraudulent practices but also the critical value of information that individuals with firsthand knowledge can provide. Such evidence is often essential for the government to build a successful case against those defrauding the system.

A unique and powerful feature of the False Claims Act is its “qui tam” provision. This provision allows private citizens who have non-public knowledge of fraud against the government to file a lawsuit on behalf of the United States. The individual filing the qui tam lawsuit is known as a “relator.”

Our Track Record: Customs Fraud Legal Experience That Delivers Results

When you choose Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, you are partnering with a team that has made history in customs fraud enforcement. We have represented whistleblowers in groundbreaking cases and achieved exceptional outcomes that demonstrate our level skill in this field:

• $22.865 Million Customs Fraud Settlement – International Vitamin Corporation (IVC): Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight served as counsel to the whistleblower in one of the largest-ever customs fraud cases. In 2023, IVC – a major importer of dietary supplements – paid $22.865 million to settle claims that it systematically skirted customs duties on thousands of shipments from China. Our client, a former IVC accountant, alleged the company misclassified 32 different products to avoid tariffs, and even after discovering the misclassifications, failed to report or pay what it owed. We filed this False Claims Act case in 2019 and litigated alongside the Department of Justice, ultimately securing not only a substantial recovery for U.S. taxpayers, but also a whistleblower award of over $4.5 million for our client. This landmark resolution put other importers on notice: fraudulently evading tariffs has serious consequences. It also showcased the power of whistleblowers to spur government enforcement – a point highlighted by major news outlets and the Justice Department when announcing the settlement.
• Ongoing Whistleblower Case – The Sporn Company (Jewelry Import Fraud): Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight is currently leading a high-profile customs fraud lawsuit against The Sporn Company, a jewelry importer, and related entities. In this pending False Claims Act case (filed in federal court in 2024), our client alleges that the defendants engaged in a scheme to undervalue luxury jewelry imports and misrepresent their origin in order to evade import duties. This case, which is being closely watched in the industry, exemplifies our firm’s commitment to tackling cutting-edge customs fraud schemes. By bringing this matter to light, our whistleblower client aims to level the playing field for honest businesses and recover money owed to the U.S. Treasury. As this case progresses, it reinforces our message: we will tenaciously pursue companies that cheat U.S. customs, wherever they operate.
• Other Notable Successes: In addition to the above, our attorneys have helped whistleblowers expose related import/export frauds under federal trade laws. For example, our team was instrumental in cases against medical device manufacturers who violated the Trade Agreements Act by selling non-compliant (foreign-made) products to the U.S. government – resulting in settlements of $23.5 million and $11.3 million against industry giants. We also represented a relator in a case involving mislabeling of Chinese tech products as “Made in USA” to dodge contract restrictions, and another in a procurement fraud matter that recovered $50 million for the government. Each success underscores a simple truth: our firm knows how to win complex whistleblower cases, including those involving international trade and customs issues.

This track record of success is unmatched – and it directly benefits our clients. We know the investigative agencies, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with the Department of Justice and Customs and Border Protection, and we understand the defense strategies that companies use to try to avoid liability. Armed with this insight, we build compelling cases that get results. Our opponents – even the largest corporations – know we come prepared with facts, law, and an unwavering commitment to our whistleblower clients. As a result, our firm has earned a reputation as a trusted authority in customs fraud matters.

Our Team: Trusted Advocates and National Leaders in Whistleblower Law

At the heart of Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight's customs fraud practice is an elite team of attorneys devoted to protecting whistleblowers. Our Whistleblower & Qui Tam Practice Group is co-led by John McKnight, a Washington, DC-based Partner and one of the firm’s named partners. John is widely recognized as a leading whistleblower attorney in the nation – he has been honored in Lawdragon’s “500 Leading Plaintiff Lawyers” list every year since 2021, and he is the current Chairman of the Board of The Anti-Fraud Coalition (TAF), a public interest nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering whistleblowers who exposed fraud against the government.With over a decade of experience dedicated to representing insiders, John has guided clients in exposing fraud across various industries, from banking and securities to government contracting and customs violations. Vince’s background includes representing a former Fortune 500 executive whose information helped regulators impose over $3.5 billion in fines in a financial scandal, as well as leading investigations that led to multi-million-dollar recoveries in procurement fraud and trade fraud cases. Clients praise Vince not only for his mastery of the law but for his dedication to ethical justice – he is exactly the kind of ally a whistleblower wants when facing corporate wrongdoing.

Our team also features other standout attorneys, including John McKnight and Russell Kornblith, who as General Counsel and Partner at the firm has been instrumental in our customs fraud cases. Russell was a key architect of the IVC victory, and he currently represents the whistleblower in the Sporn Company litigation. He brings a keen strategic mind and deep knowledge of the False Claims Act to every case. Together, Vince, John,, Russell, and the rest of our whistleblower practice (which includes former government prosecutors and seasoned litigators) offer an unparalleled skillset and knowledge in this niche area. We understand the technical details of import/export regulations, the economics of global supply chains, and how to work with government investigators – all crucial in building a winning customs fraud case. Most importantly, we never forget the “Trust” our clients place in us when they come forward. Whistleblowers often risk their careers and reputations to do what’s right; our attorneys honor that courage by fiercely protecting our clients’ interests and treating them with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

How We Help Customs Fraud Whistleblowers

Reporting customs fraud can be daunting – these schemes are often sophisticated, involving complex import documentation and sometimes coordinated deception by large companies. When you reach out to Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, we simplify the process and stand by you at every step. Our representation typically includes:

• Confidential Case Evaluation: We start with a free, confidential consultation to discuss the details of the suspected fraud. Whether you are an industry insider, a competitor, or a customs broker who has observed wrongdoing, your information will be handled with the utmost discretion. We will assess the strength of your potential case – drawing on our extensive experience, we can quickly determine if the facts likely constitute a violation of the False Claims Act or other laws.
• Building a Strong Claim: If you choose to proceed, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate and gather evidence to support your claim. Customs fraud cases often require analyzing import records, invoices, classification rulings, and correspondence. We know what red flags to look for (e.g., mismatches between shipping documents and reported classifications, suspicious transshipment through third countries, etc.) We also collaborate with trade experts and leverage government resources (such as customs databases) when appropriate. Our team will prepare a detailed complaint on your behalf, filed under seal as required in FCA cases, to give the government an opportunity to investigate alongside us.
• Guidance Through the Legal Process: Whistleblower cases under the FCA can be complex and lengthy, but we guide you through it all. We interface with the Department of Justice attorneys and investigators, present them with the evidence, and advocate for government intervention in your case. Throughout the investigation phase, we keep you informed (to the extent we are allowed under seal) and strategize on the best path forward – whether that leads to a government-backed settlement, an intervention and litigation, or proceeding with the case on your own (with our firm litigating as relator’s counsel). Rest assured, we handle the heavy lifting and legal intricacies, so you can focus on your life and career.
• Protecting You from Retaliation: Fear of retaliation is a natural concern for whistleblowers, especially if you are still employed or in the same industry as the company committing fraud. Protecting our clients is our top priority. The law provides strong anti-retaliation provisions – and we will enforce them. If your employer fires, harasses, or blacklists you for blowing the whistle, we can take action to secure remedies such as back pay, reinstatement, and damages. Our firm’s employment law success complements our whistleblower practice; we have successfully represented many clients in retaliation claims. You can feel safe knowing we have your back legally and will fight to safeguard your career and reputation.
• Maximizing Your Reward: Finally, we are dedicated to ensuring that if your information leads to a recovery, you receive the full whistleblower reward you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will advocate for you during the award determination process. We know how to present your contribution in the best light to the government, emphasizing the value you brought to the case. Remember, time can be of the essence – under the FCA’s “first-to-file” rule, only the first whistleblower to report a particular fraud is eligible for a reward. We encourage you to come forward promptly so that you secure your place and strengthen your claim before others possibly step in. Even if you’re unsure whether what you’ve seen is truly fraud, we invite you to speak with us confidentially. We can help evaluate the situation and advise on next steps without any obligation.

Throughout this journey, our approach is client-centered. Whistleblowers are heroes in our view, and we treat you as such. You will work directly with our senior attorneys – the same lawyers who achieved the major results described above – not handed off to junior staff. We pride ourselves on being responsive, compassionate, and relentless. This is more than a case for us; it’s a cause. By exposing customs fraud, you are defending the integrity of our trade system and standing up for law-abiding businesses and American workers. Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight is honored to be your partner in that cause.

Why Choose Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight?

Choosing a law firm to represent you in a whistleblower case is a pivotal decision. Here’s what sets Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight apart as the right customs fraud whistleblower law firm for you:

• Unmatched Experience and Credibility: We don’t just handle whistleblower cases – we lead the field. Our firm’s commitment to excellence has been recognized year after year; for example, our whistleblower team’s leaders are regularly named among the nation’s top litigators. Our successes (from multimillion-dollar settlements to precedent-setting court victories) speak volumes. Few firms can match our blend of trial experience, subject-matter knowledge, and strategic acumen in customs fraud matters.
• Nationwide Reach, Personalized Representation: As a national firm, we have the resources to take on the biggest corporate defendants and work with government agencies across jurisdictions. We have attorneys barred in numerous states and familiarity with courts from New York to California. Yet, despite our broad reach, we maintain a personal touch. Clients consistently praise our team for being “phenomenal…knowledgeable, professional and compassionate”. You will get the attentive, one-on-one support you deserve, backed by the might of a large firm.
• Proven Track Record in Customs Fraud and Tariff Cases: Some firms tout whistleblower experience but have never handled a customs fraud case specifically. We have a whole portfolio of them. From stopping importers of cheap goods who undercut U.S. markets, to taking on defense contractors hiding foreign-made components in violation of trade laws, we’ve seen it and won it. This niche experience means we can hit the ground running – we know the laws, the lingo, and the common evasive tactics, so we can craft a compelling case theory quickly.
• Holistic Support and Integrity: We understand that a whistleblower case can be a long road with ups and downs. Our team is here not just as your lawyers, but as your partners. We communicate transparently and honestly about your case. If a hurdle arises, we problem-solve it together. Importantly, we work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing out of pocket while the case is underway. Our interests are fully aligned with yours: we only succeed if you do. And if for some reason a case isn’t viable, we’ll explain why and help you explore other reporting options. Your trust means everything to us, and we will never advise you to pursue a matter unless we genuinely believe in it.
• Respected by Peers and Adversaries Alike: The legal community knows Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight for its integrity and tenacity. Opposing counsel have acknowledged that “there is simply no one better” than our firm, noting how we “outwork the other side, master the law and facts, and achieve great results.” That reputation benefits our clients: when we enter a case, the other side understands that they face formidable advocates who won’t back down. This often encourages quicker resolutions on favorable terms.

In summary, we offer whistleblowers the total package: legal firepower, specialized knowledge, and heartfelt commitment. If you want the best chance of stopping customs fraud and securing your whistleblower reward, Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight is the firm you can trust.

Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

Take the first step toward justice by contacting us here. If you suspect a company is engaging in customs fraud – whether by misclassifying goods, undervaluing shipments, evading anti-dumping duties, or any other fraudulent tactic – contact our customs fraud whistleblower attorneys today. We offer a free and confidential case review. There is no obligation, and your information will be kept strictly private. You can reach us by phone at our offices nationwide, or submit a request through our secure online contact form. Our team is ready to listen and provide clear, honest guidance about your potential case.

Remember: Customs fraud harms all of us – it robs the U.S. of revenue and rewards cheaters over honest businesses. But with the help of whistleblowers like you, this fraud can be stopped.