Seattle Theft Crime Lawyers
Washington Bribery Charges
Bribery is the crime of giving a benefit (most often money) in order to influence the judgment or conduct of a person in a position of trust, usually a public official. Not only is it a crime to offer a bribe, but if you accept a bribe you could be charged with bribery as well. Bribery is typically punishable as a felony, and there must be an element of “corrupt purpose” present in order to charge someone with this type of theft crime. If you are facing bribery charges, you should immediately consult with a Seattle theft crimes lawyer at our firm. A defense attorney can do a great deal to help your case, and clients always benefit from having a legal representative to look out for their best interests.
- Bribes can come in many different forms, including:
- Money
- Goods
- Right in action
- Property
- Preferment
- Privilege
- Emolument
- Object of Value
- Advantage
- Promises
Sometimes gifts can be mistaken for bribes, but bribery charges cannot be made unless the “gift” is given with some intent to influence the recipient’s official behavior. If a gift was given that is suspected to be a bribe, federal officials and investigators may get involved, further complicating and intensifying the situation. Your Seattle theft crimes attorney can do a lot to diffuse the situation and make sure your reputation and career aren’t affected by a simple mistake.
Any person who offers, participates in, or agrees to a bribe can be charged with this offense and will have a difficult time warding off conviction, especially in the absence of a defense attorney. Typically considered to be a type of white collar crime, bribery frequently occurs in corporate settings involving people in professional and official positions. Occurrences of bribery that are publicized can have a very harmful effect on the organization or individual’s reputation, so it is important to have a qualified and experienced lawyer who can try to resolve the situation in a positive way.
Contact a Seattle Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer today if you are facing bribery charges!