Under 18 U.S.C. § 201, acceptance or solicitation of a bribe is a federal felony carrying up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. An Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer Virginia from our firm can build your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Federal Bribery Statute: 18 U.S.C. § 201
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 201 prohibits both the solicitation and acceptance of bribes by public officials and the offering of bribes to influence official acts. The statute defines a bribe as anything of value given, offered, or promised to a public official with the intent to influence an official act. This includes cash, gifts, loans, or any other benefit. A conviction under this statute carries severe penalties, including up to 15 years in federal prison, fines, and forfeiture of any property involved in the offense. The government must prove that the defendant acted corruptly and with specific intent to influence or be influenced in the performance of an official act. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides full representation for those facing these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 201 (official U.S. Code)
For the full text of the federal bribery statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 201 (official U.S. Code). For federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Insider Procedural Edge: Federal Bribery Cases in Virginia
Federal bribery cases in Virginia are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, known for its aggressive approach. The government often uses cooperating witnesses and wiretaps to build cases. Your defense must challenge the government’s evidence of corrupt intent.
- Step 1: Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Contact an Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer Virginia immediately to begin building your defense.
- Step 3: Your lawyer will file a motion to preserve evidence and challenge any illegal searches or seizures.
- Step 4: Your lawyer will negotiate with the government for a favorable resolution, such as a plea agreement or dismissal.
- Step 5: If necessary, your lawyer will prepare for trial, including filing pretrial motions and selecting a jury.
In Virginia, acceptance or solicitation of a bribe under 18 U.S.C. § 201 carries up to 15 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 or three times the value of the bribe | Loss of professional licenses | Forfeiture of property, supervised release, loss of voting rights, ineligibility for federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Bribery Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds bribery cases. We provide case-specific strategies for each client.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our firm has secured dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea agreements in federal bribery cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Virginia Location
Our Fairfax location is minutes from the Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve clients throughout Virginia.
Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer near Fairfax, Virginia.
Neighborhoods served: Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, Fredericksburg.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe Charges in Virginia
Do I need an Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer Virginia?
Yes. Federal bribery charges carry up to 15 years in prison. An experienced lawyer can challenge the government’s evidence and negotiate for a favorable outcome.
What is the difference between a bribe and a gratuity under federal law?
A bribe requires corrupt intent to influence an official act. A gratuity is a reward for an act already performed. Bribery carries harsher penalties.
Can I be charged with bribery if I did not receive any money?
Yes. The solicitation of a bribe is a crime even if no money changes hands. The government must prove you intended to solicit a bribe.
What should I do if I am under investigation for bribery?
Do not speak to investigators. Contact an Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer Virginia immediately. Your lawyer can protect your rights and begin building your defense.
What are the penalties for a federal bribery conviction?
Up to 15 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000 or three times the bribe value, forfeiture of property, and loss of professional licenses.
Can a bribery charge be dismissed?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if the government’s evidence is weak, if there was an illegal search, or if the defendant can show entrapment or lack of corrupt intent.