Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer in Howard County, MD
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violations are serious federal crimes prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission. If you are under investigation for foreign bribery charges in Howard County, you need a lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against complex federal allegations. Our firm was founded in 1997 and handles cases across Maryland federal courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | 15 U.S.C. § 78dd-1 et seq.
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) is a federal law that prohibits U.S. persons and companies from bribing foreign officials to obtain or retain business. An FCPA violation defense lawyer Howard County can explain that charges often involve the anti-bribery provisions and the accounting provisions requiring accurate books and records. Investigations are complex, involving federal agencies like the DOJ and FBI. The penalties for a conviction are severe, including multi-million dollar fines and imprisonment.
Federal Statute and Penalties for FCPA Violations
The FCPA is codified at 15 U.S.C. §§ 78dd-1, et seq. The law has two main parts: 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. The accounting provisions require issuers to maintain accurate books and records and have a system of internal accounting controls. A foreign bribery charge lawyer Howard County must handle both sets of rules.
For official information, you can review the U.S. Department of Justice FCPA resource page and the SEC’s FCPA information.
In federal court, an FCPA violation can lead to corporate fines of up to $2 million per violation and individual fines of up to $250,000, plus imprisonment for up to 5 years per count.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FCPA Anti-Bribery Violation (Individual) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years per count | Up to $250,000 per violation | Disgorgement, civil penalties, debarment from government contracts |
| FCPA Accounting Violation (Issuer) | Civil/Administrative | N/A | Up to $25,000 per violation | SEC enforcement action, monitorship, compliance program overhaul |
| FCPA Anti-Bribery Violation (Corporate) | Federal Felony | N/A | Up to $2 million per violation | Monitorship, disgorgement, loss of export licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Approach to FCPA Defense in Howard County
Our firm provides a full defense against Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violations. We analyze the government’s evidence, challenge the jurisdictional reach of the FCPA, and examine whether a payment falls under a permitted exception, such as for routine government action. We also assess the adequacy of a company’s pre-existing compliance program. Early intervention is critical in federal cases to potentially avoid indictment or negotiate a favorable resolution.
- Initial Case Assessment: We conduct a thorough review of the allegations, the client’s business operations, and any internal investigations already undertaken.
- Government Engagement: We communicate with the DOJ and/or SEC, often on a confidential basis, to understand the scope of the investigation and present mitigating facts.
- Internal Investigation: If not already done, we may recommend an independent internal investigation to uncover facts and demonstrate cooperation.
- Compliance Review: We evaluate the company’s existing anti-corruption compliance program to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Resolution Strategy: We develop a strategy aimed at declination, a non-prosecution agreement (NPA), a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA), or, if necessary, trial defense.
- Remediation & Monitoring: If an agreement is reached, we assist in implementing required remediation and satisfying any monitorship terms.
Firm Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have combined experience of over 120 years. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA violations results are confidential, our firm’s extensive federal practice provides the foundation for a strong defense. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand government tactics.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Maryland location serves clients in Howard County, including Columbia and Ellicott City. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 29. We provide federal criminal defense lawyer services near Howard County. We serve neighborhoods including Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FCPA Violations Defense FAQs
What is the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)?
Yes. The FCPA is a U.S. federal law with two main parts. First, it prohibits bribing foreign officials to gain a business advantage. Second, it requires publicly traded companies to maintain accurate accounting records and internal controls to prevent such bribes. Violations can lead to severe criminal and civil penalties.
Who can be charged with an FCPA violation?
It depends. The FCPA applies to “issuers” (U.S. and foreign companies listed on U.S. exchanges), “domestic concerns” (U.S. citizens, residents, and businesses), and certain foreign persons acting within U.S. territory. Individuals like employees, officers, and directors can face personal liability, even if the company pays the fine.
What are the penalties for an FCPA conviction?
Penalties are severe. For corporations, fines can reach $2 million per anti-bribery violation. Individuals face up to 5 years in prison and $250,000 in fines per violation. The SEC can also impose civil penalties, require disgorgement of profits, and bar individuals from serving as officers or directors of public companies.
What should I do if my company is under FCPA investigation?
Four critical steps: First, secure experienced legal counsel immediately. Second, preserve all relevant documents and data. Third, consider initiating a privileged internal investigation. Fourth, develop a strategy for engaging with the DOJ and SEC, as cooperation can significantly impact the outcome.
Can an FCPA case be resolved without a criminal conviction?
Yes. Many FCPA cases are resolved through Non-Prosecution Agreements (NPAs) or Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs). These agreements typically require the company to pay a penalty, cooperate with the investigation, and enhance its compliance program. Successful completion results in the dismissal of charges.
For more information, see our page on Maryland federal criminal defense. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Anne Arundel County. If you have related business legal needs, consider our Howard County business lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.