Charleston Bribery Lawyer

State law criminalizes both the giving and accepting of bribes. Individuals convicted of providing unwarranted gratuities to influence someone’s actions can face up to 10 years of incarceration and a maximum fine of $10,000.

The state treats bribery as a serious felony. If the State accuses you of taking part in a bribe, a Charleston bribery lawyer could provide the aggressive defense you need to oppose the government’s overzealous efforts to sully your name and reputation. South Carolina Criminal Law, founded by Dayne Phillips, has procured not guilty verdicts in multiple criminal trials, and its defense attorneys have successfully appealed many improper convictions. We have in-depth knowledge of how prosecutors and state courts operate, and we use that knowledge to the benefit of all our clients.

How Does State Law Define Bribery Offenses?

Different sections of the state’s statutes address distinct aspects of bribery. If the State has accused you of this crime, an attorney may first determine which statutes the charges reference and confirm that the indictment reflects all the required elements to sustain those charges.

Specific statutory sections spell out what the law prohibits. South Carolina Code §16-9-210 bars individuals and organizations from giving funds or valuable assets to officers, executives, or other persons in positions of power or authority to persuade their decisions. S.C. Code § 16-9-220 precludes those powerful individuals from accepting anything of value in exchange for making decisions that favor the gift giver. S.C. Code § 16-9-230 prohibits persons who have decision-making authority from receiving kickbacks, rebates, and unearned compensation.

These statutory prohibitions encompass a broad range of activities that might constitute unlawful bribes. Successful bribery convictions, however, require the State to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant’s actions fell within the purview of those prohibitions. A Charleston attorney scrutinizes the facts of each bribery case to highlight the weaknesses and gaps in a prosecutor’s arguments.

What Are Some Common Defenses to Bribery Charges?

As with all criminal defense matters, a bribery defense attorney in Charleston may analyze your case to determine, for example, if constitutional violations or hearsay prohibitions warrant the exclusion of evidence. For the specific elements of a bribery allegation and the relevant facts, a lawyer may also be able to argue that:

• You did not intend to exert influence on any authorities or attempt to persuade them to do anything
• You had a legitimate misunderstanding of the facts or legal elements of your situation, for example, because you believed prevailing rules and regulations authorized the payment
• You gave or accepted a gift or deductible contribution intended for campaign purposes
• The recipient forced you to transfer something of value, which might occur, for example, if a highway patrol officer solicits a cash payment in lieu of issuing a traffic violation

As these examples suggest, the specific evidence and facts behind a bribery indictment will play a key role in determining guilt. The State will use anything you say to support its argument. Accordingly, you should decline to discuss any elements of your situation with authorities unless an experienced lawyer is present and representing you at an interrogation.

Contact a Charleston Bribery Defense Attorney Today

Our bribery defense team treats every client with respect and gives each case the full personal care and attention it deserves. If the State is charging you with a violation of the state’s bribery statutes, call South Carolina Criminal Law now to schedule a free case evaluation with a Charleston bribery lawyer for help protecting your rights.