Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Violations Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) investigation in Somerset County can lead to severe federal penalties, including multi-million dollar fines and imprisonment. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strategic defense for individuals and corporations facing foreign bribery charges. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience to handle federal cases.
Understanding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act is a federal law with two main provisions: the anti-bribery provisions and the accounting provisions. The anti-bribery provisions make it unlawful for certain classes of persons and entities to make payments to foreign government officials to assist in obtaining or retaining business. The accounting provisions require issuers to maintain accurate books and records and to devise and maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls. Violations are prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | Somerset Vicinage Court Website
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, refer to the U.S. Department of Justice FCPA Resource Guide. Information on enforcement actions and corporate compliance can be found through the Securities and Exchange Commission FCPA page.
handling an FCPA Case in Somerset County
Federal investigations for foreign bribery charges often involve coordination between the DOJ, SEC, and sometimes international authorities. For a business or individual in Somerset County, the process typically begins with a subpoena or a search warrant. An experienced FCPA violation defense lawyer Somerset County can intervene early to manage the government’s requests and protect your rights. In the Somerset Vicinage of the Superior Court, federal matters may be heard, but FCPA cases are primarily litigated in federal district court.
- Initial Contact & Internal Investigation: Upon receiving a subpoena or learning of an investigation, immediately contact legal counsel. Your attorney will conduct an internal fact-finding review to understand the scope of the allegations.
- Government Negotiation & Disclosure: Your lawyer will communicate with the DOJ or SEC, often negotiating the terms of document production and any potential voluntary disclosure, which can be a critical factor in securing leniency.
- Building the Defense Strategy: Defense strategies may involve challenging the jurisdictional elements, proving a lack of corrupt intent, or demonstrating that payments were lawful under the FCPA’s facilitating payments exception or local law.
- Resolution Phase: Your attorney will work towards a favorable resolution, which could range from a declination by prosecutors, a non-prosecution or deferred prosecution agreement, to preparing for trial if necessary.
Potential Penalties for FCPA Violations
In Somerset County, FCPA violations prosecuted federally can result in corporate fines up to $25 million and individual penalties of up to $5 million in fines and 20 years imprisonment per violation.
| Entity | Criminal Fines | Individual Penalties | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporations | Up to $25 million per violation | N/A | Debarment from government contracts, massive compliance costs, reputational damage. |
| Officers/Directors/Employees | Up to $5 million per violation | Up to 20 years imprisonment per violation | Personal financial ruin, loss of professional licenses, inability to work in regulated industries. |
| Other Penalties | Disgorgement of profits, civil penalties imposed by the SEC, mandatory independent compliance monitors. | ||
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your FCPA Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique perspective to defending federal white-collar crimes. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 years, and we have handled thousands of cases across multiple states. We understand the immense pressure of a federal investigation and provide a defense focused on protecting your freedom, assets, and reputation. Our approach combines rigorous legal analysis with a strategic understanding of how to negotiate with federal agencies.
Our Approach to FCPA Cases
While specific case results in Somerset County for FCPA matters are not publicly verifiable due to the sensitive nature of federal investigations, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in high-stakes federal and state litigation. We have successfully negotiated pre-charge resolutions, secured dismissals, and obtained favorable settlements for our clients facing serious allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Violations Lawyer Serving Somerset County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, Route 206, and Route 28. For a foreign bribery charge lawyer Somerset County residents can consult, call for 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
FCPA Defense FAQs
What is the main purpose of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act?
Yes. The FCPA’s primary purpose is to prohibit U.S. persons and businesses from bribing foreign officials to obtain or retain business. It aims to create a fair playing field for international commerce and promote transparency in foreign governments.
Can I be charged under the FCPA for actions that took place entirely outside the United States?
Yes. The FCPA has extraterritorial reach. U.S. authorities can prosecute foreign nationals and companies if the bribery scheme has a sufficient connection to U.S. commerce, such as using U.S. banks, email servers, or if the company is listed on a U.S. stock exchange.
What should I do if my company receives an FCPA-related subpoena?
Immediately contact an experienced FCPA violation defense lawyer Somerset County. Do not destroy any documents or communicate about the matter internally without legal advice. Your attorney will guide the response, potentially including an internal investigation and strategic communication with the government.
Are there any defenses to an FCPA bribery charge?
Yes. Potential defenses include demonstrating that the payment was lawful under the written laws of the foreign country, that it was a reasonable and bona fide expenditure (like travel for contract execution), or that there was no corrupt intent to influence an official act.
What is a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) in an FCPA case?
A DPA is a settlement where the government agrees to defer prosecution if the company meets certain conditions, like paying a fine, admitting facts, and implementing a strong compliance program. If conditions are met, the charges are typically dismissed after the agreement term ends.
Who enforces the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act?
Two agencies. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) handles criminal enforcement against both companies and individuals. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) handles civil enforcement against issuers—companies registered on U.S. exchanges—and their officers, directors, and agents.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
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If you want to see how a Somerset County case fits into the wider process, our page on foreign corrupt practices act violations lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Somerset County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Somerset County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Violations Lawyer Bergen · Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Violations Lawyer Hudson · Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Violations Lawyer Monmouth.