Law firm specialized in customs law

Customs Audits: Why Seek Legal Assistance from the Very Start of the Inspection?

In practice, it is not uncommon for cases to reach me at an advanced stage of the customs procedure—sometimes after several months or even years.

Often, it is only when a company receives the audit or investigation report, the preliminary tax notice, or worse, a recovery notice, that it decides to consult a lawyer experienced in customs litigation.

However, waiting until this critical stage to build a defense strategy can be a costly mistake.

While late intervention still allows for a certain degree of maneuvering, getting involved from the very first steps of the customs audit significantly improves the handling of the case.

Here’s why:

Assess the Stakes and Inform You

A customs audit is rarely insignificant. It can involve substantial amounts, severe financial penalties, and even criminal consequences for the company.

Engaging a lawyer with solid expertise in customs litigation from the initial exchanges with customs authorities gives you a clear understanding of what is at stake, the potential risks, and the available strategies.

Understanding what customs officers are looking to verify, and the potential grounds for reassessment, allows you to better anticipate what comes next.

Anticipate and Mitigate Risks

During an audit, nothing is left to chance. Customs authorities will examine your operations, documents, and procedures in detail. A specialized lawyer can immediately identify red flags and potential weaknesses.

They can:

• Advise on which documents to prepare and how to explain them;
• Identify areas that may raise concerns or be subject to challenge by customs;
• Prepare detailed explanations and supporting documents from the outset;
• Attend interviews and ensure your rights are fully respected.

This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of unjustified or excessive reassessments and lays the groundwork for any future challenge.

In short, anticipating the customs administration’s concerns reduces the risk of reassessment and litigation.

Strategic Support During the Audit

Audit phases are decisive. They often shape the outcome of the case.

The customs authority has broad powers to access documentation, question company officers, and inspect premises.

An experienced lawyer can guide you and safeguard your interests at every step of the process.

This guidance can make the difference between a heavy reassessment and a favorable resolution.

Reducing Litigation Risks

Finally, early involvement helps defuse potential disputes.

From the audit phase onward, a lawyer can:

• Provide precise and well-founded explanations;
• Challenge issues raised before they become formal reassessments;
• Negotiate penalties and interest.

In short, by involving the Regere law firm and its experienced team from the beginning of a customs audit, you secure a strategic, structured, and effective defense—one that limits financial and legal risks and positions you as an active participant in your defense.