Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer in Gloucester, Virginia
A Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer Gloucester VA from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense against federal bribery charges. The FCPA prohibits U.S. persons and companies from bribing foreign officials for business advantages. Violations carry severe penalties, including multi-million dollar fines and imprisonment.
Understanding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) is a federal law with two main provisions: the anti-bribery provision and the accounting provisions. The anti-bribery provision makes it unlawful to offer, pay, promise to pay, or authorize the 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.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see the U.S. Department of Justice FCPA Resource Guide. For federal court procedures in the Eastern District of Virginia, which may have jurisdiction over Gloucester County cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Assessment: Immediately secure all relevant documents and electronic communications. Do not destroy any potential evidence.
- Internal Investigation: Conduct a privileged internal investigation to understand the scope of potential misconduct.
- Government Engagement: Develop a strategy for voluntary disclosure or response to a government subpoena, weighing the potential benefits of cooperation.
- Remediation: Implement or enhance a strong compliance program to prevent future violations, which can be a mitigating factor.
- Negotiation or Defense: Negotiate for a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA), non-prosecution agreement (NPA), or prepare for trial if the government proceeds with charges.
Potential Penalties for FCPA Violations
In Gloucester County and across the U.S., FCPA violations can result in corporate fines in the hundreds of millions, individual imprisonment, and severe collateral consequences like debarment from government contracts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Bribery Violation (Corporate) | N/A | N/A | Up to $2 million per violation | Disgorgement of profits, mandatory compliance monitor, debarment. |
| Anti-Bribery Violation (Individual) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $100,000 | Personal liability, cannot be paid by employer. |
| Accounting Violations (Knowingly) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5 million (individual); $25 million (corporate) | SEC enforcement actions, civil penalties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a formidable depth of experience to federal white-collar defense. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence common in FCPA cases. Our team understands the immense pressure of a federal investigation and provides a strategic, proactive defense from the first sign of scrutiny.
Our approach to FCPA defense is collaborative. For instance, Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, contributes significant trial and complex case management experience. As a White Collar Crime Lawyer, his perspective strengthens our defense team’s ability to handle high-stakes federal proceedings.
Local Accessibility for Gloucester County Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Gloucester County and the surrounding region who are facing federal charges. While federal court appearances may be in Alexandria or Richmond, we provide accessible consultations. We are a dedicated Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer Gloucester VA resource. We serve communities including Gloucester and Gloucester Point. Contact us for 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: FCPA Defense
What is the main purpose of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act?
The FCPA aims to prevent bribery of foreign officials to obtain or retain business and to promote transparency in the accounting practices of publicly traded companies.
Can a company be held liable for the actions of a third-party agent under the FCPA?
Yes. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior and the FCPA’s provisions, a company can be held liable for bribes paid by its agents, consultants, or joint venture partners if the company authorized, directed, or had knowledge of the corrupt payments. This makes thorough due diligence on third parties essential.
What are the “books and records” provisions of the FCPA?
These provisions require issuers (companies with securities listed on U.S. exchanges) to make and keep accurate books, records, and accounts that fairly reflect transactions. They also must maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that transactions are executed per management’s authorization.
What is the difference between a DOJ and an SEC FCPA investigation?
The Department of Justice (DOJ) handles criminal enforcement of the FCPA’s anti-bribery provisions against both individuals and companies. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) handles civil enforcement of both the anti-bribery and accounting provisions, primarily against issuers and their officers, directors, employees, and agents.
Are facilitation payments allowed under the FCPA?
The FCPA contains a narrow exception for “facilitating or expediting payments” made to secure routine governmental action that is non-discretionary (e.g., processing visas, providing police protection). However, this exception is interpreted narrowly, and many other countries’ laws (like the UK Bribery Act) prohibit such payments entirely.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with an FCPA violation, securing experienced counsel immediately is critical. The strategies deployed in the early stages can dramatically affect the outcome. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your case with a seasoned Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer Gloucester VA.
Related Practice Areas: Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Gloucester | Business Lawyer Gloucester County
Other Localities: Federal Criminal Lawyer Alexandria | Federal Criminal Lawyer Arlington
State Hub: Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.