Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer in Botetourt County, Virginia
A Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violation is a serious federal crime under 15 U.S.C. §§ 78dd-1, et seq., prohibiting bribery of foreign officials for business advantage. If you are under investigation in Botetourt County, securing a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violations lawyer is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate legal help.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Understanding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) contains two main provisions: the anti-bribery provisions and the accounting provisions. The anti-bribery provisions make it unlawful to offer, pay, promise to pay, or authorize payment of money or anything of value to a foreign official to influence any act or decision to obtain or retain business. The accounting provisions require issuers with securities listed in the U.S. to maintain accurate books and records and to devise and maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls. Cases are investigated by the SEC and DOJ and prosecuted in federal court, often the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
For the official text of the FCPA, see the U.S. Code (15 U.S.C. § 78dd-1). For federal court procedures, visit the United States Courts website.
- Initial Investigation: A federal investigation may begin with subpoenas, search warrants, or contact from FBI, SEC, or DOJ agents.
- Internal Review: Counsel will conduct an internal investigation to assess exposure and determine facts.
- Government Negotiation: Your attorney will engage with prosecutors, which may involve discussing voluntary disclosure, cooperation, or a potential resolution.
- Resolution Phase: This stage may lead to a declination, a Non-Prosecution Agreement (NPA), a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA), or indictment.
- Trial or Sentencing: If charged, your lawyer will prepare a defense for trial or negotiate a favorable plea agreement under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for FCPA Violations
In federal court, FCPA violations carry severe penalties including multi-million dollar fines and lengthy prison sentences for individuals.
| Entity | Anti-Bribery Penalties | Accounting Violation Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Corporations | Criminal fines up to $2,000,000 per violation; Civil penalties up to $16,000 per violation. | Criminal fines up to $25,000,000; Civil penalties up to the greater of a monetary gain or a specified amount. |
| Individuals (Officers, Directors, Employees, Agents, Stockholders) | Criminal fines up to $100,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years per violation; Civil penalties up to $16,000 per violation. Fines may not be paid by the company. | Criminal fines up to $5,000,000 and imprisonment up to 20 years; Civil penalties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Additional consequences include disgorgement of profits, pre-trial monitoring, imposition of independent compliance monitors, debarment from government contracts, and significant reputational damage.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal matters. Our founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial and technical aspects of FCPA cases. We understand the immense pressure of a federal investigation and provide strategic, client-focused legal help from the first sign of scrutiny.
Seeking a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer
If your business or you personally are facing allegations related to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, immediate action is necessary. Our team, including experienced attorney Matthew Greene, is prepared to defend you. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to begin building your defense strategy.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (540) 535-0725
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients in Botetourt County and is accessible via I-81. We provide a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violations lawyer near Fincastle, Daleville, and Troutville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FCPA Violations Lawyer FAQs
What is the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)?
Yes. The FCPA is a U.S. law with two main parts: it prohibits bribery of foreign officials to obtain business, and it requires public companies to maintain accurate financial records and internal controls to prevent such bribes.
Who can be charged under the FCPA?
It depends. The law applies to “issuers” (U.S. and foreign companies listed on U.S. exchanges), “domestic concerns” (U.S. businesses and citizens), and any person acting within U.S. territory. Third parties like agents or consultants can also create liability for a company.
What are the penalties for an FCPA violation?
Penalties are severe. Corporations face multi-million dollar fines. Individuals face criminal fines up to $100,000, civil penalties, and imprisonment for up to 5 years for anti-bribery violations and up to 20 years for accounting violations. Fines for individuals cannot be paid by their company.
What should I do if my company is under FCPA investigation?
Immediately seek legal help from an attorney experienced in FCPA defense. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. Your lawyer will advise on securing evidence, conducting an internal investigation, and handling potential voluntary disclosure and cooperation with the DOJ or SEC.
Can an effective compliance program help?
Yes. The DOJ and SEC consider the existence and effectiveness of a pre-existing, strong compliance program when deciding on charges and penalties. A good-faith program can be a mitigating factor, though it does not provide absolute immunity.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub, or learn about related services like Business Law in Botetourt County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.