What To Do If You Are Accused Of Bribery In Arizona?

Immediate Steps To Take If Accused Of Bribery In Arizona

Being accused of bribery in Arizona is a serious matter that can significantly impact your life. That’s because bribery charges are felonies in Arizona, meaning that the conviction can lead to prison time, hefty fines, and a damaged reputation that’s hard to repair.

Fortunately, there’s a way to prevent the worst outcome and assert your right to receive a fair resolution. For this, it’s crucial to act fast and make informed decisions with the help of a Mesa criminal defense lawyer and our following guide. 

Keep reading to learn what steps to take immediately after being accused of bribery and how a criminal defense attorney can be your strongest ally.

Understanding Bribery Under Arizona law

Bribery is defined as the act of offering, promising, or giving something of value to a public servant with the intent to influence their official duties. Likewise, a public official who solicits or accepts a bribe in exchange for favorable treatment or a specific action can also be charged. The law focuses on the corrupt intent behind the exchange rather than the actual outcome.

Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-2602, bribery of a public servant is a Class 4 felony, carrying serious penalties, including possible imprisonment.

Some common scenarios of bribery include: 

• Offering cash or gifts to a government employee in hopes of getting a permit, license, or contract approved.
• Attempting to influence a police officer to avoid a citation, arrest, or investigation.
• Providing favors or incentives to a judge or prosecutor in exchange for a lighter sentence or case dismissal.
• Business owners or contractors bribing local officials for zoning changes or government contracts.

The law does not require the bribe to be accepted for charges to be filed. In other words, the mere offer with corrupt intent is usually enough. Additionally, both parties involved in the transaction can be prosecuted, whether the bribe was successful or not.

It’s critical to seek professional help from a criminal defense attorney when facing bribery charges, given the complex nature of these cases and the high stakes involved.

How To Respond If accused Of Bribery In Arizona

Being accused of bribery can be overwhelming and frightening, especially when facing the possibility of felony charges. However, the response you do in the first hours and days after the accusation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay Calm Avoid Self-Incrimination

Do not try to explain yourself to law enforcement, coworkers, or anyone involved without first speaking to an attorney. Anything said (even casually) can be used against you later. Stay calm, and resist the urge to clear your name on your own.

2. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

The most important step is to consult with an experienced Mesa criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible because they will:

• Help you understand your rights and options.
• Protect you during any interviews or investigations.
• Begin building a defense strategy based on the facts.

3. Do Not Destroy Or Alter Any Evidence

It may be tempting to delete emails or texts, but doing so can harm your case. Preserve any documents, messages, or communications that may be relevant—even if you think they might look bad. Your attorney will decide what supports your defense.

4. Avoid Contact With Other Involved Parties

Do not reach out to the person accusing you or any witnesses. Even well-meaning communication can be misinterpreted as intimidation or obstruction.

5. Start Documenting Everything

Keep a written record of events, conversations, and people involved. These notes may help your attorney identify inconsistencies or potential witnesses.

The Legal Consequences Of Bribery In Arizona

Bribery in Arizona is considered a serious offense and can result in significant legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. The severity of the penalties typically depends on the nature of the bribery, the parties involved, and the specific circumstances of the case. Here are some of the penalties depending on the type of bribery:

• Bribery of Public Servants or Party Officers: This is a class 4 felony. The penalties include imprisonment ranging from 1-3.75 years for first-time offenders, fines of up to $150,000, and possible probation and community service.
• Commercial Bribery: This is a class 5 felony. The penalties include imprisonment ranging from 0.5-2.5 years for first-time offenders, fines of up to $150,000, and possible probation and community service. However, if the value of the benefit is less than $1,000 then the penalties are less severe.
• Bribery of Participants in Contests: This is a class 5 felony. The penalties include imprisonment ranging from 0.5-2.5 years for first-time offenders, fines of up to $150,000, and possible probation and community service. Similar to commercial bribery, the penalties are less severe if the benefit value is less than $1,000.
• Sports Bribery: This is a class 5 felony. Penalties include imprisonment ranging from 0.5-2.5 years for first-time offenders, fines of up to $150,000, and possible probation and community service. 
• Judicial Bribery: This is a class 4 felony. Penalties include imprisonment ranging from 1-3.75 years for first-time offenders, fines of up to $150,000, and possible probation and community service. 

Why Should You Hire An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney?

The stakes are high when facing bribery charges in Arizona. Your reputation, freedom, and future may be at risk, which is why hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney becomes so critical.

An experienced lawyer doesn’t just react—they also strategize. They’ll review the facts, analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to ensure a proper outcome for your case. 

Moreover, a skilled attorney understands how the laws work and can identify the best legal arguments for your case.

When You Need a Skilled Mesa Defense Attorney, Get In Touch With Our Firm

At Dove Law Firm, our experienced legal team in Mesa specializes in handling bribery cases, providing personalized and aggressive representation to protect your rights. We understand the complexities of Arizona’s legal system and are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Contact us today for a consultation!