CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Commercial Bribery

Commercial Bribery: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Commercial bribery commonly occurs when employees ask for, receive, or accept money or gifts worth more than $250 from someone who is not their employer, intending to misuse their position for the benefit of that other individual. Offering or accepting a commercial bribe is a criminal offense that applies not only to public officials but also private businesses. An offense that occurs in a business setting is known as commercial bribery, which is punishable under Penal Code Section 641.3 PC.

Understanding Commercial Bribery

A commercial bribery charge is a grave offense that might ruin one’s reputation or career and lead to some jail time. Most individuals assume that accepting kickbacks is standard practice, but the consequences are dire when the kickbacks’ value exceeds $250, thus turning it into a criminal offense. Employees found committing commercial bribery offenses altogether risk severe repercussions, such as hefty fines or imprisonment for an extended period.

It is advisable to maintain workplace ethics while acting in the interest of your employer. Refrain from accepting money or gifts from another individual in exchange for a business decision that does not involve your employer. Such an act might jeopardize your employer’s business and is punishable by law.

Consequences of Commercial Bribery in Los Angeles

Individuals charged with committing commercial bribery crimes face substantial consequences, such as significant fines or jail time in county or state prison. If you are facing commercial bribery allegations, you should seek the services of a reputable Los Angeles commercial bribery attorney to fight the charges on your behalf. Our law firm has experienced criminal defense lawyers who will help you fight the charges and provide you with possible defenses to your case.

Penalties for Commercial Bribery in Los Angeles

The punishment for commercial bribery depends upon various factors such as the criminal history of the offender, the amount of bribery offered, and the circumstances of the crime’s commission. Bribery worth less than $1,000 attracts a maximum of one year in county jail, while bribing over $1,000 attracts up to three years in county jail or state prison.

Defenses against Commercial Bribery Charge

You cannot be convicted of the commercial bribery charge without proving the existence of corrupt intent. Commercial bribery is an intent crime, meaning that if you are accused of bribery and did not receive any money or gift with the intent to defraud or injure your employer or your employer’s clients, you have nothing to worry about.

The Danger of Accepting Kickbacks

Most industries have rampant bribery, often referred to as perks. People give or receive bribes without considering the consequences. However, it is essential to note that accepting kickbacks is dangerous, and the value of the gift should be a major concern. It is a criminal offense to receive anything worth more than $250, and you risk imprisonment and ruining your reputation and career.

How to Avoid Commercial Bribery

Employees in any industry should avoid accepting any form of payment without their boss’s knowledge. Concealing a gift or money from your employer turns it into a commercial bribery offense, which is punishable by law. Therefore, it is advisable to operate within your employer’s guidelines and policies to avoid committing any offense.

Conclusion

Bribery is a serious criminal offense that can ruin one’s reputation and career. Commercial bribery applies to private business contexts as well, and it occurs when an employee receives a kickback with the intention of using their position to benefit that individual who provided the bribe. Therefore, employees should uphold work ethics and refrain from accepting money or gifts from other people in exchange for business decisions that do not involve their employer. In case you are facing commercial bribery allegations, contact our law firm. We have experienced lawyers who will provide you with legal services and defend you against the charges you are facing.