Bribery Lawyer

Bribery allegations are some of the most serious charges in corporate and financial crime, carrying severe legal, reputational, and financial consequences. Convictions for bribery can result in lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, confiscation of assets, and regulatory sanctions. If you or your organisation is under investigation or facing charges under bribery laws, it is critical to seek immediate advice from an experienced bribery lawyer.

At our firm, we specialise in defending clients against bribery and corruption allegations. With extensive experience in handling complex cases, we provide expert advice, strategic defence, and robust representation tailored to your unique circumstances. Our solicitors are committed to protecting your rights, reputation, and future.

What is Bribery?

Bribery involves offering, promising, giving, requesting, or accepting a financial or other advantage to improperly influence the performance of a function or activity. In the UK, bribery is a criminal offence under the Bribery Act 2010, one of the most comprehensive anti-corruption laws globally.

Offences Under the Bribery Act 2010

1. Bribing Another Person: Offering or giving a bribe to induce or reward improper performance.
2. Being Bribed: Requesting, agreeing to receive, or accepting a bribe in exchange for improper performance.
3. Bribery of Foreign Officials: Offering or giving a bribe to a foreign public official to gain a business advantage.
4. Failure of Commercial Organisations to Prevent Bribery: A corporate offence for failing to prevent bribery by associated persons, such as employees or agents.

Consequences of a Bribery Conviction

A conviction for bribery can lead to severe consequences for both individuals and organisations, including:

• Imprisonment: Individuals face custodial sentences of up to 10 years for bribery offences.
• Financial Penalties: Heavy fines for individuals and unlimited fines for organisations.
• Confiscation of Assets: Authorities may seize assets deemed to be proceeds of bribery under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA).
• Regulatory Sanctions: Disqualification from holding directorships or operating in regulated industries.
• Reputational Damage: Allegations can significantly harm professional reputations and business relationships.
• Debarment: Companies convicted of bribery may be excluded from public procurement contracts.

How Our Bribery Lawyers Can Help

Our bribery lawyers provide comprehensive legal support and robust defence strategies to protect your rights and interests at every stage of the investigation and prosecution process.

1. Early Legal Advice

Seeking legal advice as soon as you become aware of an investigation or allegations of bribery is crucial. Early intervention can shape the direction of your case and protect your interests.

Our Services Include:

• Advising on your rights and obligations during investigations.
• Preparing you for interviews under caution with law enforcement agencies such as the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) or the National Crime Agency (NCA).
• Reviewing initial evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

2. Representation During Investigations

Bribery investigations often involve extensive document reviews, forensic analysis, and interviews. Our solicitors work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that the investigation is conducted fairly.

Our Approach Includes:

• Representing you during interviews with law enforcement or regulatory agencies.
• Challenging procedural errors or unlawfully obtained evidence.
• Ensuring compliance with disclosure requirements and fairness in evidence collection.

3. Building a Robust Defence

Defending against bribery allegations requires meticulous preparation, legal expertise, and a deep understanding of financial transactions and corporate practices. Our team examines every aspect of your case to build a strong defence.

Defence Strategies May Include:

• Challenging Intent: Demonstrating that your actions were not intended to induce or reward improper performance.
• Disputing Evidence: Identifying inconsistencies, procedural breaches, or inaccuracies in the evidence presented.
• Good Faith Transactions: Proving that payments or benefits were legitimate and unrelated to bribery.
• Lack of Knowledge: Arguing that the accused was unaware of the bribery occurring within their organisation.
• Mitigation: Highlighting compliance measures or remedial actions taken to prevent bribery.

4. Corporate Compliance and Defence

For organisations, bribery investigations can have significant legal and financial implications. We assist businesses in navigating these challenges and defending against corporate liability for bribery.

Our Services Include:

• Advising on anti-bribery compliance programmes to demonstrate reasonable prevention measures.
• Representing organisations in regulatory and criminal investigations.
• Negotiating settlements or deferred prosecution agreements (DPAs) with authorities.

5. Representation in Court

If your case proceeds to trial, our experienced advocates provide skilled representation to protect your interests and present your defence effectively.

In Court, We Will:

• Cross-examine witnesses to challenge their credibility and the evidence presented.
• Present expert testimony to refute allegations or explain legitimate financial practices.
• Deliver persuasive arguments to establish reasonable doubt or mitigate sentencing if a conviction is unavoidable.

6. Appeals and Post-Conviction Support

If you are convicted of bribery, you may still have options to appeal the decision or reduce your sentence.

Post-Conviction Services Include:

• Reviewing trial records for procedural errors or new evidence.
• Preparing detailed appeal submissions to challenge the conviction or sentence.
• Advising on compliance with fines, confiscation orders, or debarment regulations.

Why Choose Us as Your Bribery Lawyers?

1. Specialist Expertise

We have extensive experience defending clients in bribery and corruption cases, from minor allegations to multi-jurisdictional investigations.

2. Tailored Defence Strategies

Every case is unique. We work closely with you to understand your circumstances and develop a defence strategy that reflects your priorities.

3. Proven Track Record

Our team has successfully defended individuals and organisations in bribery cases, achieving acquittals, reduced charges, and favourable settlements.

4. Professional and Discreet Representation

We understand the sensitive nature of bribery allegations and handle every case with confidentiality, professionalism, and care.

5. 24/7 Availability

Investigations can arise unexpectedly. Our solicitors are available around the clock to provide immediate advice and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am accused of bribery?

Contact a solicitor immediately. Do not provide statements to investigators or engage with authorities without legal representation.

Can my company be held liable for bribery?

Yes. Under the Bribery Act 2010, companies can be held liable if they fail to prevent bribery by associated persons, such as employees or agents.

How long do bribery investigations take?

The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the volume of evidence, with investigations often lasting months or even years.

What are the penalties for bribery?

Penalties include imprisonment, unlimited fines for companies, asset confiscation, and regulatory sanctions such as debarment from public contracts.

Can I appeal a bribery conviction?

Yes. If you believe your conviction or sentence was unjust, we can help you explore options for appeal and represent you in appellate proceedings.

Contact Our Bribery Lawyers Today

If you are facing bribery allegations, early legal intervention is essential to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome. Contact us now on 0208 732 5458 or 07946 424 154, or email us at admin@makwanas.co.uk to arrange a confidential consultation.

Our experienced bribery lawyers are available 24/7 to provide expert advice, robust defence, and practical support. Protect your freedom, reputation, and future—call us today.