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State and federal laws hold elected officials and those in power to high standards. When someone in a position of trust uses their influence to benefit themselves or others through bribery, that undermines trust in the government. Defendants who are charged with this serious white-collar crime can hire a Los Angeles federal bribery defense lawyer to protect their rights in court.
At the Law Offices of Marc S. Nurik, we understand that law enforcement sometimes jumps to conclusions without sufficient evidence, and overzealous prosecutors can take on cases that do not have merit. When your character and integrity are called into question, our law firm can work to get your side of the story across in court. Our founding attorney has more than 45 years of experience helping clients undo the narrative being portrayed against them.
Being accused of bribery can have serious repercussions for both your personal and professional life. If you hold a position of trust or authority, even the allegation of bribery can damage your reputation and future opportunities. Many in Los Angeles seek out experienced legal counsel when confronted with such serious white-collar crime accusations, and our law firm is often one of the first places people look for legal representation.
Our esteemed founding attorney has a deep understanding of bribery laws and a proven track record of successfully defending clients against these charges. You do not have to face the uncertainty and stress of this situation alone. Our law firm will work to develop a tailored defense strategy that challenges the prosecution’s characterization of events.
Bribery is one of the oldest types of white-collar crimes on the books. The crime almost always involves someone in a position of power and an individual who solicits favors from that person in power. One example would be someone who contracts with the federal government to provide gifts to a federal employee, who then awards a lucrative contract to the gift-giver. The quid pro quo (this for that) expectation is at the heart of any bribery case.
Federal bribery laws pertain to federal officials who accept bribes. Under the federal criminal law, anyone convicted of bribing a federal official faces up to 15 years in prison. The same criminal penalties pertain to the official who accepts a bribe.
Bribery is based in part on the intent of a transaction between a private citizen and a public official. There is nothing illegal about giving gifts and donations to people in power as long as those offers are not made with the explicit expectation of a favor in return. Prosecutors have the burden of proving that one or both parties involved in the alleged crime willingly engaged in acts of bribery that they knew were against the law.
Without proof, prosecutors may just be making assumptions. Without criminal intent, federal prosecutors may have a very weak case. Bribery may also involve coercion, whether from the person seeking or accepting the gift. If someone wants a favor and uses undue pressure to influence the public official, the official could argue that they were coerced into accepting money.
Bribery and extortion are two related but unique criminal charges that both involve one party exerting undue pressure on another to gain favors or profit. Extortion involves obtaining something of value through the use of threats or coercion, while bribery involves receiving or offering something of value with the goal of influencing someone’s decisions or actions. Both are serious forms of white-collar crimes that require legal representation by defendants.
Bribery of a federal agent can result in up to 15 years in prison. Sentences may vary based on the case’s specifics, including the amount of the bribe and the defendant’s prior record. Convictions also carry potential fines and other legal consequences. Whether you are facing federal or state charges, having legal representation can drastically change the outcome of a case.
A good defense strategy against bribery may include proving a lack of intent, showing that no bribe was offered or accepted, or demonstrating that any transaction was lawful. Defendants might argue that actions were misinterpreted or that there was no agreement to influence official actions.
Criminal intent plays an important role in defenses against white-collar crime allegations because the line between legitimate business transactions and crimes is not always clear without an understanding of the intent behind those actions.
The majority of cases in federal court are resolved through plea bargaining. When prosecutors make a favorable offer that the defendant accepts, the case is settled once the plea bargain requirements have been fully fulfilled.
For first-time offenders, prosecutors may offer the defendant the opportunity to accept a lesser charge or a guilty plea of bribery in return for a reduced sentence.
The 666 Bribery Statute refers to Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 666, which addresses bribery and theft involving federal funds. It criminalizes bribery of officials involved in programs receiving federal funds, with penalties including years in prison and substantial fines. The statute was passed by Congress in 1984. As part of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act, the law is intended to cut down on public corruption.
A conviction for federal bribery can malign your reputation and greatly reduce your future employability. Don’t let mere accusations determine your future. With experienced legal counsel, you can change the narrative surrounding your charges.
Our founding attorney focuses on white-collar crimes, so we understand the types of legal strategies that can lead to dropped charges or greatly lowered criminal penalties. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.
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