Bribery charges can have lasting repercussions, including steep fines, prison time, and permanent damage to your reputation. The stakes are high, whether you’re accused of offering, receiving, or soliciting a bribe.
At Michael A. Arbeit, P.C., we leverage over two decades of experience to aggressively defend clients facing bribery charges throughout Long Island and the New York metropolitan area. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today to get started with an experienced bribery defense attorney.
What Is Bribery?
Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an individual in a position of power. It can occur in various settings, including government offices, corporations, and private organizations. The prosecution must prove intent, showing a deliberate effort to influence a decision or action corruptly.
Examples of bribery include:
- Offering cash or gifts to a government official for favorable treatment.
- Receiving kickbacks for awarding business contracts.
- Providing excessive gifts to sway a corporate decision-maker.
A “quid pro quo”—an exchange of something valuable for a benefit—is a critical factor in bribery cases. Successfully defending against bribery charges often involves challenging this alleged exchange.
Federal and New York Bribery Laws
Federal and state bribery laws carry penalties that can be severe depending on the jurisdiction of the alleged offense.
Federal Bribery Laws
At the federal level, bribery is addressed through various statutes, including:
- The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)–Prohibits offering payments or gifts to foreign officials to gain a business advantage.
- 18 U.S.C. § 201–Covers bribery of federal public officials, making it illegal to offer or receive anything of value with the intent to influence an official act.
Violations of federal bribery laws can result in penalties such as:
- Fines of up to $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for organizations.
- Prison sentences of up to 15 years.
- Disqualification from holding public office.
New York Bribery Laws
In New York, bribery is governed by Article 200 of the New York Penal Law, which outlines various offenses:
- Bribery in the Third Degree–Offering a benefit to a public servant to influence their actions, punishable by up to seven years in prison.
- Bribery in the Second Degree (Penal Law §200.03)–Involves offering a benefit exceeding $10,000, carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison.
- Bribery in the First Degree (Penal Law §200.04)–Occurs when the influence sought involves criminal conduct, punishable by up to 25 years in prison.
New York also criminalizes commercial bribery and unlawful gratuities, such as giving gifts to public officials without a formal quid pro quo arrangement. Penalties under New York law may include prison time, significant fines, and a criminal record that can harm your career and reputation.
Common Defenses in Bribery Cases
Defending bribery charges requires a thorough investigation and tailored legal strategy. At Michael A. Arbeit, P.C., we focus on exposing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Common defenses include:
- Lack of intent–The prosecution must prove intent to corruptly influence another person. If the intent is unclear, the case weakens.
- Entrapment–It may be a valid defense if law enforcement coerced or induced you to commit bribery.
- Insufficient evidence–Many bribery cases rely on circumstantial evidence, which can often be challenged.
- Constitutional violations–Evidence obtained through illegal searches, seizures, or interrogations can be suppressed, potentially leading to case dismissal.
Every case is unique, and we develop personalized strategies to protect your rights and reputation.
Why Choose Michael A. Arbeit, P.C. for Bribery Defense?
When facing bribery charges, you need a trusted advocate with the experience and tenacity to fight for you. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience, Attorney Arbeit has successfully handled complex white-collar cases, including bribery allegations.
Our firm conducts a detailed investigation of every case, identifying errors in procedure, weaknesses in evidence, and opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s narrative. We prioritize open communication and keep you informed at every stage.
Our track record of success demonstrates our commitment to protecting clients from the life-altering consequences of criminal charges. Your future is our priority, and we work tirelessly to achieve favorable results.Don’t leave your future to chance. Trust Michael A. Arbeit to protect your rights and develop a strong defense. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.