Federal Bribery Defense Lawyer

Federal Bribery Defense Attorney

The word “bribery” is often thought to be linked to politics and those running for political office. It may even make a person think of sports events, business, or the American justice system.  But it is not limited to those things. Federal bribery is a crime that involves offering, receiving, or conceding to a bribe in exchange for an official act. You need to hire a federal bribery defense lawyer if you are convicted of a federal bribe offense, as the potential penalties are severe.

Proving Bribery

There are specific guidelines set in place by the federal government when it comes to prosecuting bribery. These guidelines include:

• The individual involved is a public official, a government employee, or an elected official
• A valuable item or service must be given
• The valuable “gift” must be given in exchange for an official act
• An official act can be done out of persuasion by the bribe
• The public official must be able to perform the act
• The prosecution must be able to determine that there is a relationship between the bribe and the official act

Any bribery involving a governmental official in exchange for an official act to be carried out is an act of corruption and is charged as a federal offense. If you find yourself charged with federal bribery, it is wise not to take any action without the assistance of a federal criminal defense attorney. Your attorney can give you the most effective defense options moving forward in your case.

Bribery of a Witness

Much like bribing a public or government official, bribery of a witness is also illegal. This type of bribery takes place when a witness is given money or other benefits so that they will change their testimony. It can also include a witness asking for money to alter their testimony or not giving it at all.

An individual may still be charged with federal bribery even if a bribe was not accepted. Even an offer of bribery or a plan to change a witness’ testimony is considered illegal and, therefore, a crime. Keep in mind that even if the witness does testify truthfully, they can still be convicted of bribery if there is any evidence that a bribe was offered.

Public Corruption

Fraud, extortion, and bribery are all types of public corruption and are considered crimes. Extortion and bribery can sometimes be used interchangeably, even though they are two different things. Bribery refers to providing money or other benefits in exchange for something, but extortion means that an exchange for benefits is given as a result of threatening harm.

In some cases, it can be difficult to discern if extortion has occurred without strong evidence of threats. Sometimes, both bribery and extortion can take place.

Defenses for Federal Bribery Charges

There are several defense strategies that the defense counsel may use for federal bribery charges under either Florida law or federal law, such as:

• Lack of intent: If the defendant does not display any corrupt intention of either influencing or being influenced to accept a bribe, they cannot be charged.
• Lack of understanding: If the defendant lacked an understanding of the valuable item or service offered or promised in exchange for an official act to be carried out, the defendant could not be guilty of bribery.
• Entrapment: In the case that the defendant was forced to follow through with a bribery offense by law enforcement, then the defendant may be able to claim entrapment.

What a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Do for You

When you have a criminal defense attorney on your side, you may have a much better chance of achieving a positive outcome in your case. Your attorney can help you:

• Determine viable evidence against you and search for any weak points in the prosecution’s case
• Create a defense strategy that pertains to your unique circumstances
• Negotiate for reduced charges or a favorable plea
• Serve as your advocate throughout the trial and sentencing
• Assist you in better understanding the legal process

Having legal representation can make all the difference in your fight to defend your rights.

FAQs

Q: Is It Hard to Prove Bribery?

A: Yes, it can be hard to prove bribery. It is typically difficult to prove the relationship between the valuable gift offered and the illegal persuasion of the official. This is especially the case if there is little to no evidence of intent. It can also be hard to prove a changed behavior after a valuable gift has been given or promised.

Q: What Is the Federal Punishment for Bribery?

A: The federal punishment for bribery is typically heavy fines and jail time. The fines can amount to up to three times the amount of the value of the bribe offered. Jail time may be up to 15 years in a federal prison institution. If convicted, the individual may also be disqualified from holding any official office title.

Q: What Facts Are Necessary to Prove a Federal Bribery Charge?

A: In order to prove a federal bribery charge, there are several facts that are necessary for a conviction. First, the individual who was bribed must be a public official. The bribe offered must be something of value. The one receiving the bribe must provide a service. It is also necessary that the official can perform the requested act. The individual offering the bribe must have a specific intent, and a relationship must exist between the bribe and the official act.

Q: Is Bribing a Federal Officer a Crime?

A: Yes, bribing a federal officer is a crime according to the law. In Florida, it is illegal to offer, give, or promise anything that is valuable to a public officer in exchange for an official act. These officers include anyone such as a member of Congress, delegates, any state government employee, jurors, bank officials, sports officials, or U.S. Custom officials.

Consult with a Federal Bribery Defense Lawyer

Bribery is often linked to politics and those running for governmental office. It can also take place in sports events, in businesses, or in the judicial system. Federal bribery is a serious crime with serious consequences. You need to hire a federal bribery defense lawyer if you have been charged with a federal bribe offense. Contact the Law Offices of Barry M. Wax for help with your case.