Kickbacks lawyer Virginia, VA
You need an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer if you are facing a kickbacks investigation or charge in Virginia. Federal kickbacks cases are prosecuted actively by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, and they carry the possibility of years in federal prison, steep fines, and forfeiture of assets. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. bring extensive combined legal experience to federal criminal defense matters. Results may vary. From the initial stage of a grand jury investigation all the way through sentencing, we work to protect your rights and build the strong $1. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Understanding Federal Kickbacks Charges in Virginia
Kickbacks are payments, fees, or anything of value offered or received in exchange for a referral or business opportunity, often in government contracting or healthcare. At the federal level, kickbacks can be charged under several statutes. The most frequent is the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b(b), which makes it a crime to knowingly and willfully offer, pay, solicit, or receive anything to induce or reward referrals under a federal healthcare program. Other kickback-related charges may be brought under 18 U.S.C. § 666 (federal program bribery), 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (mail fraud), 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (wire fraud), or 18 U.S.C. § 371 (conspiracy). In Virginia, these cases are heard in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern District (Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News divisions) and the Western District (Roanoke, Abingdon, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Lynchburg, Danville, and Big Stone Gap divisions).
Federal kickbacks investigations often begin with a grand jury subpoena, a civil investigative demand, or a search warrant executed by agents from the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, or another agency. Because federal sentencing guidelines apply and the federal system has no parole, an early, strategic response is critical. Our firm has handled federal matters across Virginia since 1997, and we know the procedures, discovery practices, and sentencing approaches of both the Eastern and Western Districts.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Kickbacks Cases
Every federal kickbacks case begins with a thorough review of the evidence—including financial records, emails, and witness statements—and an honest assessment of the government’s case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every possible defense. Did the government meet the necessary criminal-intent standard? Was there a legitimate business purpose for the payment? Is the statute of limitations a bar? Are there grounds to suppress evidence obtained through an improper search?
In many federal kickbacks matters, the goal is to resolve the case favorably before charges are filed. We often engage with the prosecutor early to present our client’s side of the story, propose alternative resolutions, and, when appropriate, negotiate a deferred prosecution agreement or a non-prosecution agreement. If charges are filed, we thoroughly litigate pre-trial motions, challenge the government’s evidence, and prepare for trial. At sentencing, we work to present the client’s full background and circumstances, argue for a sentence below the advisory guideline range, and seek alternatives to incarceration where possible.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.; he is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He has extensive experience in handling complex federal criminal matters in the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia.
Mr. Sris leads a team of Of Counsel attorneys who collectively bring extensive federal criminal defense experience. They are admitted to practice in the relevant federal courts and have handled a wide range of federal investigations and trials. Our approach is collaborative: Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work closely together on every federal kickbacks matter, drawing on their combined knowledge of federal criminal law, procedure, and local court practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for kickbacks?
Yes, immediately. Federal investigators do not always tell you the full scope of their inquiry. Any statement you make can be used against you. Retaining experienced federal defense counsel before charges are filed—or even before you speak with law enforcement—can materially affect the outcome of your case.
What should I do if I receive a federal grand jury subpoena related to kickbacks?
Do not ignore it and do not respond on your own. A grand jury subpoena means the government is actively building a case. Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer right away. An attorney can help you understand what the subpoena is seeking, negotiate the scope of your response, and advise you on how to avoid self-incrimination. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the potential penalties for a federal kickbacks conviction?
Penalties depend on the specific statute charged. Under the Anti-Kickback Statute, a conviction can result in up to 10 years in federal prison and significant fines. If mail fraud or wire fraud is charged, potential prison time can be 20 years or more. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines heavily influence the final sentence, and the federal system has no parole. In addition, a conviction can lead to exclusion from federal healthcare programs if the case involves healthcare, as well as loss of professional licenses.
Can a federal kickbacks charge be dropped?
Charges can be dismissed if the government’s evidence is weak, if a key witness becomes unavailable, or if a motion to suppress succeeds. In some cases, a skilled defense lawyer may be able to persuade the prosecutor to decline to file charges in the first place. Every case is different. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate the specific facts to determine the most effective strategy.
How long does a federal kickbacks case take in Virginia?
The timeline varies by case complexity and court scheduling. Under the Speedy Trial Act, a trial generally must start within 70 days of indictment, but many delays are excludable. Complex kickbacks matters can take a year or more to resolve. Early engagement with counsel can influence the pace and direction of the investigation and, in some situations, lead to a quicker resolution.
How do I choose a federal criminal lawyer for a kickbacks case in Virginia?
Look for an attorney who regularly practices in the U.S. District Courts where your case is pending and who is experienced in handling federal fraud and public-corruption matters. A lawyer who understands how the U.S. Attorney’s Office operates in the Eastern or Western District of Virginia can make a significant difference. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have represented clients in both districts since 1997. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Federal Criminal Defense — Additional Locations
Fairfax County Federal Criminal Defense • Prince William County Federal Criminal Defense • Richmond Federal Criminal Defense • Arlington Federal Criminal Defense • Loudoun County Federal Criminal Defense
Authoritative Resources
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia • U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines Manual
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.