In Albemarle County, acceptance or solicitation of a bribe is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 201, carrying up to 15 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending federal corruption charges. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Albemarle County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 201 (official U.S. Code)
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 201 defines bribery as the corrupt solicitation, acceptance, or transfer of anything of value to influence an official act. This statute covers both the person offering the bribe and the public official who solicits or accepts it. The government must prove intent to influence or be influenced in any official act. A conviction carries severe penalties including prison time, fines, and forfeiture of any property involved in the offense.
For the full text of the federal bribery statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 201 (official U.S. Code). For federal court procedures in the Western District of Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
- Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preserve all documents and communications that may be relevant.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Your lawyer will review the evidence and advise on your rights.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office on your behalf.
- If charges are filed, your lawyer will prepare a defense for trial.
In Albemarle County, 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 3x the value of the bribe | Loss of federal employment eligibility | Forfeiture of property, supervised release, permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the government builds corruption cases.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys have handled numerous federal criminal cases, including bribery and corruption charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Albemarle County courts (350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902), accessible via I-64, Route 29, Route 250, and Route 20.
Looking for an Acceptance or Solicitation of a Bribe lawyer near Albemarle County? We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for acceptance or solicitation of a bribe in Albemarle County?
Yes, it is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 201 carrying up to 15 years in prison, fines up to $250,000 or 3x the bribe value, and forfeiture of property.
Can I be charged for both offering and accepting a bribe?
Yes, both the person offering the bribe and the public official who solicits or accepts it can be charged under 18 U.S.C. § 201. Each party faces separate charges.
What is the difference between bribery and illegal gratuity?
Bribery requires proof of corrupt intent to influence an official act. An illegal gratuity involves giving something of value for a past official act without proof of corrupt intent.
Do I need a federal criminal defense lawyer for a bribery charge in Albemarle County?
Yes, federal bribery charges are complex and carry severe penalties. An experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and build a strong defense.
How does the federal court system work for bribery cases in Albemarle County?
Bribery cases in Albemarle County are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. The process includes indictment, arraignment, discovery, motions, and trial.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.