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Bribery is taken seriously in the state of New Jersey. Even a lower-level offense can mean an exorbitant fine and a lengthy stay in prison. If you have been charged with bribery, you need to contact a Mercer County white-collar crime lawyer who can help you defend yourself.
What Punishments Can I Face for Bribery?
The charges for bribery can vary based on the amount of the payout or the value of the benefit used to bribe somebody. The general guidelines are:
If the value of a benefit is less than $1,000: This is a fourth degree crime and carries a prison sentence of up to 18 months. You can also be fined up to $10,000.
The benefit is worth over $1,000 but less than $75,000: This third degree crime could fine you for up to $15,000 and put you in prison for three to five years.
The benefit is valued at over $75,000: Now the bribery charge rises to a second degree crime. You can be punished with a jail sentence of five to 10 years and fines of up to $150,000.
Even a lower-level bribery charge can upend your life with its severe penalties. You need to take this charge seriously and get ready to fight it.
Who Can Be Charged with Bribery?
When it comes to bribery cases, both sides can be charged. If you bribe someone or offer to bribe someone, that is a crime. If you take a bribe or promise something in exchange for a bribe, then you can also be charged with a crime.
Sometimes there are misunderstandings though. If you think that you or a loved one have been unfairly charged with bribery, then you may want to secure the help of a criminal defense attorney.
How Can a Defense Attorney Help Me?
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you build a case and defend yourself against these charges. Your lawyer can:
- Prepare you for depositions
- Point out inconsistencies in the state’s case against you
- Gather evidence and talk to witnesses
- Get evidence against you thrown out
- File to dismiss charges against you
- Help you negotiate a lesser sentence
The penalties for a bribery charge can be quite harsh. You do not have to face them on your own when you could have a defense lawyer on your side.
Contact a White-Collar Crime Lawyer
If you have been charged with bribery, it is time to start formulating a defense and doing your best to avoid the harshest possible penalties. Contact the Law Office of Douglas Herring and schedule an initial consultation. This first meeting is free, but the opportunity to learn more about your legal options could be invaluable.
