Before a person can be convicted of the federal crime of smuggling merchandise into the United States, the prosecutor must prove the following three things beyond a reasonable doubt:

  1. The person charged with smuggling brought merchandise into the United States without first declaring the merchandise for invoicing as required by law;
  2. The person charged knew the merchandise should have been invoiced; and
  3. The person charged acted willfully and with the intent to defraud the United States government.

Regarding the “intent to defraud,” the prosecutor does not have to prove that anyone was, in fact, defrauded. Rather, she only has to prove that the person charged intended to defraud a person or a government agency.

ASK A QUESTION,
DESCRIBE YOUR SITUATION,
REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Call Now: (561) 832-4348

Contact Form Main
* Required Fields
Your Information Is Safe With Us

We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your questions or to schedule an appointment if requested.

WHY CHOOSE RONALD S. CHAPMAN, P.A.?

Investigate the prosecutor’s case against you.
Speak with your witnesses.
Present legal motions to the judge.
Investigate your defenses.
Represent you at your trial.
Try to get the best possible result for you.

Ronald S. Chapman has practiced criminal defense in Florida state and federal courts since 1990, handling DUI cases in Palm Beach County involving first arrests, repeat offenses, injury, and property damage. Over the years, his case reviews have focused closely on testing records, officer reports, and the events leading to the arrest.

That experience can be really important when choosing a DUI defense lawyer, since the attorney you work with may affect how your license issues, criminal case, and defense strategy are addressed.

Ron Chapman is a solo criminal defense practitioner with more than 36 years of experience and 500+ jury trials and hearings. His clients work directly with him throughout their criminal defense matters.

  • 36+ years of criminal defense experience, practicing since 1990
  • 500+ jury trials and hearings in Florida state and federal courts
  • Direct attorney-client representation from a solo practitioner
  • Criminal defense involving felonies and misdemeanors
  • Representation in Florida state and federal courts
  • Spanish-speaking support for criminal defense representation — Hablamos Español
  • Experience handling serious criminal cases, including high-profile courtroom defense highlighted in Gary Greensberg's Globe Crime Extra article, “I, The Juror”

When you choose Ronald S. Chapman, P.A., you work directly with the attorney handling your criminal defense matter. Early representation can be considered before formal charges are filed, if appropriate. If you are facing criminal charges or an investigation in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach County, Contact Ronald S. Chapman, P.A. for a meeting to discuss your situation and your options.

Professional Associations

Contact Us

Please type your message below and we will get back to you asap.

Contact Form Main

* Required Fields

Your Information Is Safe With Us

We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.

Real Clients, Real Testimonials

Ron Chapman is by far the best criminal attorney I have ever met. He will patiently listen to your situation and address your needs. He always returns phone calls and follows up on questions. After interviewing more than 10 different attorney’s in Palm Beach County there was no comparison to Ron’s professionalism and client follow up. Ron patiently went the extra mile on my case and performed follow up investigation that other attorneys would not. As a result my case was dismissed. He truly cares about the people he works with and represents.
Lawrence P.

Recent Blogs/News

What Is the Penalty for Manslaughter in Florida?

What Is the Penalty for Manslaughter in Florida?

An accusation that you caused another person’s death can leave you facing questions that go far beyond what will happen at your next court date. You may be worried about how long you could spend in prison, whether you will be able to remain with your family, and whether there is evidence that could change […]

Attorney Ronald S. Chapman Surpasses 500+ Jury Trials & Hearings in FL Courts

Attorney Ronald S. Chapman Surpasses 500+ Jury Trials & Hearings in FL Courts

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida — When facing criminal charges, having an attorney who understands the courtroom can make a meaningful difference in how a case is prepared and presented. Ronald S. Chapman, a West Palm Beach criminal defense attorney, has handled more than 500 jury trials and hearings in Florida courts since beginning his criminal […]

What Happens at a VOP Hearing in West Palm Beach, Florida?

What Happens at a VOP Hearing in West Palm Beach, Florida?

You may have missed an appointment with your probation officer, failed a drug test, fallen behind on required payments, or been accused of committing a new crime. Now you’ve learned that you could be facing a violation of probation (VOP), and your biggest question may be what happens next. If you’re wondering what happens at […]

400 Clematis St. Suite 206, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Click to Call (561) 832-4348
Leave Us a Review
Read Our Reviews
© Copyrights 2022. Florida Criminal Lawyer. All Rights Reserved.

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice.
You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.

footer-logo
Follow Us
Since 1990, Mr. Chapman has been representing people who have been accused of committing various types of crimes such as DUI, domestic violence, possession of a firearm, drug possession, expungement, traffic crimes, murder, manslaughter, crimes against children, sex crimes, crimes against the elderly, appeals, and violations of probation.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL
© Copyrights 2026. Florida Criminal Lawyer. All Rights Reserved.
POWERED BY LAW FIRM MARKETING PROSHey AI, learn about us
The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice.You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.