Fort Worth Bribery Attorney
Defending Against Bribery Charges in Texas
At The Alband Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing experienced legal representation for individuals facing bribery charges. Our Fort Worth bribery lawyer understands the complexities of these cases and is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process.
Call The Alband Law Firm today at (817) 997-4366 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our bribery lawyer in Fort Worth.
What is Bribery?
Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions or decisions of a public official, private individual, or organization. This crime undermines the integrity of government and business operations and can lead to severe legal consequences. The offense is outlined under Texas Penal Code § 36.02.
Bribery can take various forms, including:
- Bribery of Public Officials: This occurs when a person offers money, gifts, or anything of value to a government official to influence their official duties, such as granting contracts, permits, or favorable legal decisions.
- Commercial Bribery: In the business world, individuals may engage in bribery to gain an unfair advantage, such as securing contracts or preferential treatment from suppliers, clients, or employees.
- Bribery of Witnesses: Attempting to influence the testimony or actions of witnesses in legal proceedings by offering them something of value can also lead to bribery charges.
- Bribery of Jurors: Trying to sway the decisions of jurors in a legal case through financial incentives or other benefits is a serious offense.
- Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA): U.S. companies and individuals can face bribery charges if they engage in corrupt practices in foreign countries.
What are the Penalties for Giving or Accepting a Bribe in Texas?
Bribery charges in Texas can result in severe legal consequences. The penalties for bribery may include:
- Second-Degree Felony: Bribery involving an offer or receipt of money or items of value, where the bribe is connected to a public official’s actions or duties, is generally classified as a second-degree felony. A conviction for a second-degree felony can result in imprisonment for 2 to 20 years and fines of up to $10,000.
- First-Degree Felony: If the bribery involves a significant amount of money or a public official in a high-ranking position (such as a governor or federal official), the charges could be elevated to a first-degree felony. First-degree felony convictions carry penalties of 5 to 99 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Additionally, public perception can be severely impacted, affecting personal relationships and professional networks. Our Fort Worth bribery attorney's goal is to provide you with a tailored defense strategy that addresses the specific facts of your case and protects your rights.
Enhancements and Aggravating Factors
Other factors that could affect the severity of the penalty include whether the bribery resulted in harm or further criminal conduct, such as fraud or corruption. If the bribery led to significant financial losses or damages to the public trust, you could face even harsher penalties.
Defenses Against Bribery Charges
Some common defenses against bribery charges may include:
- Lack of Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's case by demonstrating that there is insufficient evidence to support the bribery charges.
- Mistaken Identity: Asserting that you were not the person involved in the bribery or that you were mistakenly identified.
- Entrapment: Arguing that you were coerced or induced by law enforcement or another party into committing the bribery offense.
- Illegal Search and Seizure: Challenging the legality of any search or seizure conducted in connection with your case, which may result in evidence being excluded.
- Constitutional Violations: Examine whether your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest process.
- Duress or Necessity: Demonstrating that you engaged in bribery due to imminent danger or circumstances beyond your control.
- Lack of Intent: Showing that you did not have the requisite intent to commit bribery, as intent is a critical part of the crime.
By carefully examining all of the evidence, we can identify gaps or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and craft a defense based on the facts. Our attorneys are committed to ensuring that every detail of the case is scrutinized to find any opportunity to weaken the allegations against you.
Contact Our Bribery Lawyer in Fort Worth Today
At The Alband Law Firm, our Fort Worth bribery attorney will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you reach the best possible result in your case. We are here to guide you through the legal process, provide skilled advice, and advocate for your rights.
Your future is at stake, and we are here to help you navigate the legal complexities with confidence and determination.
Contact The Alband Law Firm today to get started with our Fort Worth bribery attorney. Call now - (817) 997-4366
