Bribery

Bribery involves the attempt or completed action of offering or accepting money, gifts or other valuables in exchange for an action by an official or person in a public or legal position of duty. For example, bribery could involve a motorist attempting to pay a police officer in exchange for withholding a speeding ticket. Bribery may involve a law enforcement officer, judge, juror, witness, public official, foreign official or even a sporting official (such as a referee in a sporting contest). Bribery may also occur in the private sector, involving professional sporting events or rival companies.

A person accused of offering or accepting a bribe may be charged with bribery. A citizen may try to bribe a public official in order to influence his or her decisions, or a public official may seek money or other valuables in exchange for certain actions. In either scenario, the public official and the citizen may be at risk of facing criminal charges. Even an offer or an agreement to accept or offer a bribe may result in criminal charges - though money may not have actually changed hands.

Bribery may be charged on a state or federal level. Different states impose different penalties for bribery, but either the individual offering the bribe or the individual accepting a bribe may be charged. This applies even if the bribe and "favor" do not result in harm to the public. Additionally, even the attempt to commit bribery is considered a criminal act. A defendant may face imprisonment, fines and permanent damage to his or her reputation and career.

Considering the serious impact that bribery charges may have on all areas of a defendant's life, it is highly recommended that you contact an attorney who can offer knowledgeable guidance and insight. When you understand what you're up against, you can make better decisions about your case.