As set forth above, CEOs are generally exposed to personal criminal liability only for actions in which they personally engaged. However, in a limited (but increasing) number of situations, a CEO can be personally liable for criminal activity committed by other officers and directors.

Are CEOs liable?

While most corporate liabilities reside exclusively at the corporate level, there are circumstances in which CEOs can be held liable for their companies' noncompliance. In certain circumstances, CEOs can face personal civil, or criminal liability for acts taken by, or on behalf of, their companies.

Can corporate officers be held criminally liable?

It is now well settled that corporate directors, officers, and employees can be held criminally liable for any criminal acts that they personally commit regardless of whether they were acting in furtherance of the corporation's interests.