Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations Lawyer in Union County, NJ
A Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations charge in Union County, NJ, is a serious federal crime prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice. The FCPA prohibits bribing foreign officials for business advantage and requires accurate accounting. If you are under investigation, contact a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations lawyer Union County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately.
Understanding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) is a federal law with 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 the payment of money or anything of value to a foreign official to influence any act or decision in their official capacity to obtain or retain business. The accounting provisions require issuers with securities listed in the U.S. to make and keep accurate books and records and to devise and maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Federal statutes are codified in the U.S. Code.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the U.S. Department of Justice FCPA Resource Guide. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
FCPA Defense Strategy in Union County
Defending against Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations requires a deep understanding of federal procedure and the specific practices of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. Cases often involve complex international evidence and parallel investigations by the SEC. An experienced foreign bribery charge lawyer Union County can analyze whether exceptions or affirmative defenses, such as the facilitating payments exception or the local law defense, may apply to your situation.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (FBI, IRS, HSI) may conduct interviews, issue subpoenas, or execute search warrants.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: Evidence is presented to a federal grand jury, which may return an indictment.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will be formally charged and enter a plea; the court will determine if you are released pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement; if not, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which can include substantial fines and imprisonment.
Potential Penalties for FCPA Violations
In federal court, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations carry severe penalties, including multi-million dollar fines and lengthy prison sentences for individuals.
| Provision | Entity Fine | Individual Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Bribery | Up to $2 million per violation | Up to $250,000 fine & 5 years prison | Disgorgement of profits, debarment from government contracts |
| Accounting (Books & Records) | Up to $25 million | Up to $5 million fine & 20 years prison | SEC civil penalties, monitorship, loss of professional licenses |
| Accounting (Internal Controls) | Up to $25 million | Up to $5 million fine & 20 years prison | Corporate compliance overhaul, ongoing reporting requirements |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your FCPA Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented track record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide, we bring a formidable defense to complex federal matters. Our founder’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting the financial records and internal controls at the heart of many FCPA allegations.
Our Approach to FCPA Cases
Our firm has a documented history of handling complex federal defenses. While specific results are unique to each case, our strategic approach focuses on early intervention, rigorous investigation of the alleged conduct, and challenging the government’s interpretation of the “foreign official” definition and corrupt intent. We work to negotiate resolutions that may avoid indictment or minimize penalties through cooperation agreements or deferred prosecution agreements where appropriate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Federal Defense Representation in Union 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) 455-5120
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Union County. The U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Newark is accessible via the NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. We provide representation for individuals and corporations in Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, and surrounding communities. As a dedicated FCPA violation defense lawyer Union County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: FCPA Violations
What is the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)?
Yes. The FCPA is a U.S. federal law that prohibits companies and individuals from bribing foreign officials to obtain or retain business. It also requires publicly traded companies to maintain accurate books and records and sufficient internal accounting controls.
Who can be charged with an FCPA violation?
It depends. The law applies to “issuers” (U.S. and foreign companies listed on U.S. exchanges), “domestic concerns” (U.S. citizens, nationals, residents, and businesses), and certain foreign persons and entities that act within U.S. territory. Both the company and the individuals involved can face charges.
What are the defenses to an FCPA bribery charge?
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 and lodging for a product demonstration), or that it was a “facilitating or expediting payment” made to secure routine governmental action.
What should I do if my company is under FCPA investigation?
Immediately engage experienced federal defense counsel. Do not destroy any documents or records. Counsel will guide you through securing evidence, conducting an internal investigation, managing employee interviews, and communicating with the DOJ or SEC to seek a favorable resolution, such as a declination or non-prosecution agreement.
Can I go to jail for an FCPA violation?
Yes. Individuals convicted of criminal FCPA anti-bribery violations face up to five years in federal prison. Willful violations of the accounting provisions can carry sentences of up to twenty years imprisonment per count.
Related Legal Services in Union County
If you are facing federal charges, you may need to explore other related areas. Our firm also handles complex business law matters, other federal criminal charges, and federal defense throughout New Jersey.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures are subject to change. The information on this page is for general reference and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for case-specific guidance regarding Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations.