Champions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
Whistleblowers Awarded for their Courage
In an interconnected global economy, ethical conduct in business is not just a virtue—it’s a necessity. The U.S. Foreign Corrupt practices Act (FCPA) stands as a landmark piece of legislation, establishing a global standard for integrity and transparency by combating bribery and corruption in international business dealings.
A Legacy of Success in FCPA Whistleblower Representation
The law firm of Kohn, Kohn & Colapinto has long been a leader in the field of FCPA litigation. Our steadfast dedication to whistleblowers exposing foreign corruption has enabled us to secure over $70 million in awards for our clients—non-U.S. citizens from Europe, Asia, and Latin America. This achievement underscores our deep expertise and mastery of the complex legal frameworks governing international anti-corruption laws.
However, our practice is defined by more than just numbers. Our guiding principle is the unwavering protection of the courageous individuals we represent. While the financial awards are a crucial component of justice, our primary commitment is to safeguard the identity, career, and security of every client who entrusts us with their case.
The Bedrock of Our Practice: Client Confidentiality
Exposing corruption inherently places whistleblowers in a vulnerable position, with potential risks to their careers and personal lives. We understand this reality intimately, which is why client confidentiality is the cornerstone of our legal strategy.
Fearing retaliation can deter many brave individuals from speaking out. To counter this, we have developed a secure and confidential intake process that shields our clients’ identities and case details from the outset. By guaranteeing anonymity and robust legal protection, we empower more people to step forward and hold powerful entities accountable, knowing they have a dedicated legal advocate in their corner.
Empowering Foreign Nationals Under the FCPA
The FCPA is designed with powerful provisions to both protect and reward whistleblowers, regardless of their nationality. Individuals who provide original information leading to successful enforcement actions where sanctions top $1 million can be awarded between 10% and 30% of the collected funds. The Act also contains stringent anti-retaliation clauses, making it illegal for an employer to terminate, demote, or otherwise penalize an employee for reporting violations.
Broader Protections via the SEC and CFTC
The fight against corruption often intersects with financial regulation. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) have their own powerful whistleblower programs that provide similar, and sometimes overlapping, protections and rewards. These programs also offer substantial monetary awards for tips that result in successful enforcement. Critically, with the assistance of an attorney, a whistleblower can report violations to the SEC completely anonymously, adding a vital layer of security.
