Bribery accusations against a judge or jury are taken seriously by the court, and the repercussions might be severe. We can help you fight these accusations at Simmons Wagner, LLP. Continue reading to learn the basics, then call (949) 439-5857 to schedule a free legal consultation with an experienced bribery defense lawyer.

Bribes are defined as payments made in exchange for anything of value

First and foremost, it is critical to comprehend the legal definition of a bribe. It refers to a judge or juror who makes a decision in return for money or something else of value in California. Bribery charges can be brought in both directions: a person can be charged with bribery for bribing someone, and that person can be charged with bribery for taking the bribe.

More on judicial officers and jurors who have been bribed

Giving or offering to provide a judicial officer items of value with the corrupt purpose to influence their judgment in an official case is a crime, according to the California Penal Code. Judges, umpires, jurors, referees, and arbitrators are all included in this category.

More on judicial officers and juror bribery

A judicial official can also be charged with a crime if they ask for, take, or agree to receive something of value with the goal of changing their judgement on a case as a consequence. Judges, jurors, umpires, referees, and arbitrators are all included in this category.

Defend your options against bribery charges

The consequences of a bribery conviction can be severe, as we’ll see below. As a result, finding the appropriate defense against these allegations is critical. This might include proving that you were entrapped, pressured to make or accept a bribe, or that you were inebriated at the time of the alleged offense. Of course, these are only a few choices; the best defense will be determined by the facts of your case.

If you are convicted of bribery, you may face prison time

If you are found guilty of bribing a judge or jury, or being bribed while serving on a jury or as a judge, you might face prison time and hefty penalties. These can be felony charges that carry a sentence of up to four years in jail. The amount of the fine will be determined by whether or not the bribe was really received.

If the bribe was more than $2,000 but less than $10,000, or if the bribe was more than $2,000 but less than $10,000, the fine can be the bribe amount or $2,000 (whichever is larger), or any sum not more than twice the bribe amount or $10,000.

Don’t go it alone if you’re facing charges. To schedule a free legal consultation and establish your best course of action, call Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 right now.