About Sergio
Sergio E. Acosta: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations Attorney
Sergio E. Acosta is a highly experienced and results-oriented attorney specializing in white-collar crime and government investigations. As Co-Chair of Akerman’s White Collar Crime and Government Investigations Practice, he provides comprehensive legal counsel and representation to companies and individuals facing complex allegations of wrongdoing, regulatory scrutiny, and litigation. With over 70 jury trials under his belt and a distinguished career as a former federal prosecutor, Mr. Acosta brings a unique blend of courtroom expertise, investigative skills, and strategic thinking to every case.
Mr. Acosta’s deep understanding of federal and state laws, combined with his extensive experience handling a wide range of government enforcement matters, makes him a formidable advocate. He proactively advises clients on compliance programs, conducts thorough internal investigations, and develops effective defense strategies to minimize risk and achieve favorable outcomes. His proven ability to navigate intricate legal landscapes and build strong client relationships has earned him a reputation as a trusted legal counsel.
Key Areas of Expertise:
- White-Collar Crime Defense: Mr. Acosta excels in defending individuals and companies against charges of fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering, and other serious criminal offenses. He meticulously analyzes evidence, develops strong defenses, and aggressively protects his clients’ rights throughout the legal process.
- Government Investigations: He routinely conducts internal investigations for state and local governmental entities, uncovering evidence, identifying potential liabilities, and recommending corrective actions.
- Regulatory Defense: Mr. Acosta represents clients in regulatory proceedings initiated by agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and other federal and state regulatory bodies.
- Specific Allegations: He possesses significant experience defending against allegations including:
- Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Violations: Expertise in navigating complex international anti-bribery laws.
- Anti-Kickback Statute Violations: Successfully defending against claims of improper payments and reimbursement schemes.
- False Claims Act Cases: Protecting clients from government claims related to fraudulent healthcare, defense, and federal program billing.
- Financial and Regulatory Fraud: Handling cases involving securities fraud, tax fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and fraud related to federal programs.
- Export/Import Law Violations: Advising on compliance with regulations governing the import and export of goods and services.
- Internal Corporate Policy Violations: Defending against allegations of breaches of corporate governance and ethical standards.
- Gaming Law: Mr. Acosta provides strategic counsel and representation to companies involved in the gaming industry, particularly in Illinois, where he has extensive experience.
Background & Credentials:
- Former U.S. Attorney: Served as Assistant U.S. Attorney for approximately eighteen years, including seven years as Chief of the General Crimes Section for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois.
- Supervisory Experience: Supervised and handled hundreds of complex federal criminal cases involving a wide range of offenses, including bank fraud, health care fraud, tax fraud, racketeering, violent crime, embezzlement, weapons violations, political corruption, and terrorism.
- High-Profile Cases: Led the team that indicted notorious former Chicago Police Commander Jon Burge.
- Administrative Role: Served as Administrator of the Illinois Gaming Board (1999-2001), regulating all aspects of the Illinois casino gambling industry.
- Early Career: Began his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney in Miami – Dade County, Florida, under then-State’s Attorney Janet Reno.
Legal Expertise & Resources: Sergio Acosta is Co-Chair of Akerman’s White Collar Crime and Government Investigations Practice. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, a recognition of exceptional trial skills and commitment to the profession. He is a fluent Spanish speaker and represents clients in Latin America.Awards & Recognition: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2018, and consistently recognized for his expertise in Commercial Litigation and Criminal Defense: White-Collar. Bar Admissions: Admitted to practice law in Illinois. City & State: Chicago, Illinois, United States
