Goshen Bribery Defense Lawyers
Bribery as a criminal offense isn’t limited only to public servants. New York Penal Code Article 180 includes several bribery and related offenses that don’t involve public servants, including commercial bribing, bribing a labor official or receiving a bribe as a labor official, sports bribery, rent gouging, and more. These laws can be complex and confusing, sometimes ensnaring people in conduct that is questionable regarding its legality or criminality. In Orange County and the Hudson Valley, the Goshen law firm of Dupée & Monroe, P.C., offers skilled and effective representation of people charged with bribery offenses in New York. Below you’ll find an overview of bribery offenses in New York. If you’ve been charged with bribery or other white-collar criminal offenses, contact Dupée & Monroe, P.C., to speak with an experienced and successful New York criminal defense attorney.
Understanding Bribery Offenses in New York
Bribery involves the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of any item of value as a means of influencing the actions of an individual in a position of trust or power. In New York, the law categorizes bribery charges based on the context and severity of the offense, from bribery in the third degree to more severe charges, each carrying its own set of elements and penalties.
Elements of the Crime
For a conviction of bribery to be secured in New York, the prosecution must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. The basic elements of a bribery charge include:
- Offer or Exchange: The accused must have offered, given, agreed to give, or received an item of value.
- Intent to Influence: The action must be intended to influence the judgment, conduct, decision, or action of a public official or any person in a position of trust.
- Benefit or Advantage: The intent behind the offer or exchange must be to obtain or grant some benefit or advantage, either for the individual involved or another party.
Penalties for Conviction
The penalties for bribery convictions in New York vary significantly based on the degree of the offense. They range from fines and probation for lesser charges to substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences for more severe offenses. For example, a conviction for commercial bribery in the first degree is considered a Class E felony, which can result in up to four years in prison. More severe forms of bribery, involving larger sums or more significant public harm, carry correspondingly harsher penalties.
Common Defenses to Bribery Charges
The burden falls on the prosecutor to prove the elements of the crime charged in order to secure a conviction. As a person accused of bribery, you have several constitutional rights to ensure you are treated fairly, including the right to be represented by an attorney. Several defenses can often be effectively employed against bribery charges, depending on the specifics of the case. These can include:
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intent to influence or be influenced in exchange for a benefit.
- Duress: Arguing that the accused was forced into the bribe under threat of harm.
- Entrapment: Showing that the defendant was induced to commit the crime by law enforcement officers or their agents when they had no previous intention to do so.
- Insufficient Evidence: Highlighting the lack of concrete evidence to support the elements of the bribery charge.
How Dupée & Monroe, P.C. Can Help
At Dupée & Monroe, P.C., our seasoned criminal defense attorneys understand the nuances of New York’s bribery laws and are adept at navigating the complexities of these cases. Our approach starts with a thorough investigation of all the surrounding circumstances. We conduct comprehensive investigations to uncover all facts relevant to your case, potentially revealing defenses that could lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges. Leveraging our deep legal knowledge and experience, we craft strategic defenses tailored to the specifics of your situation. Our attorneys are skilled in negotiation and, if necessary, are prepared to defend your rights vigorously in court.
Defend Against Bribery Charges in New York With Dupée & Monroe, P.C.
Facing bribery charges can significantly impact your life, but you don’t have to navigate this challenge alone. Dupée & Monroe, P.C. offers the expertise, support, and guidance needed to defend your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case. For help in Goshen, New York, and throughout Orange County and the Hudson Valley call Dupée & Monroe, P.C., today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in this critical time.
