People serving in public office have a vital role in effective government. They should make decisions based on the facts of a situation and their sound judgment. According to state law, offering a bribe to or accepting a bribe as a public official is illegal. These are serious accusations with severe potential repercussions.

A Shelton bribery lawyer at Ruane Attorneys could help you fight back against these allegations. Our attorneys are prepared to evaluate the evidence that a prosecutor intends to bring to trial, challenge the admissibility of police work that led to an arrest, and make cogent arguments before juries to create reasonable doubt concerning the case.

The Definition of Bribery Under State Law

The state’s bribery laws aim to ensure that public officials can do their job free from undue influence. These laws make it a crime to offer any benefit to a public official with the intent that this offer will impact the official’s job in any way.

Bribing a Public Servant

According to Connecticut General Statute § 53a-147, a person may commit bribery by offering, conferring, or agreeing to confer on a public servant a benefit in exchange for that servant’s decision, opinion, or recommendation in their capacity as a public servant.

At the same time, it is also illegal to accept such payments or gifts when serving in these roles. As a result, two or more people may face a bribery charge related to the same activity, whether they were offering or accepting a bribe.

Bribery in Court Cases

Bribery charges also apply to interactions between members of the public and witnesses in court cases. Under CT Gen. Stat. § 53a-149, it is against the law to offer any benefit to a witness in a case in an attempt to change their perspective or testimony. It is also illegal for witnesses to ask for or receive these benefits. A Shelton attorney could provide more information about these laws and how they may affect people facing bribery allegations.

The Possible Consequences of a Bribery Conviction

State law treats bribery allegations as serious matters. Under the bribery statute, all convictions for bribery are Class C felonies. This means that a case can bring a prison sentence of between one and ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

People facing these charges must give themselves the best chances of success. It is best to let a Shelton bribery lawyer evaluate the prosecutor’s case, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and prepare defenses that create reasonable doubt concerning the offer or acceptance of a bribe.

Contact a Shelton Bribery Attorney Today

Arrests that lead to bribery charges require a proactive legal defense. A court will always treat these cases as felonies where convictions can bring multiple-year prison sentences. It is essential that you give yourself every possible advantage moving forward.

A Shelton bribery lawyer is here to provide this help. Whether you are facing charges related to offering a bribe or must defend yourself against accusations of accepting an improper payment, Ruane Attorneys is ready to provide a tailored possible defense. Reach out to us now to explore your options.