Bribery charges threaten your freedom and your career.
Crimes that compromise the integrity of the judicial or executive branches are treated with high severity to maintain public trust in state institutions. Giving, offering, or agreeing to receive a bribe by an executive officer or a judicial officer is classified as a Class C2 felony. This exposes the corrupt actor to up to seven years in prison. Public corruption not only encompasses explicit bribery but also extends to the misuse of solicited funds and the intentional failure of elected officials to perform their statutory duties. The uniform Class C2 designation ensures that corruption is punished uniformly, regardless of the specific bureaucratic office the offender occupies.
Under 21 O.S. § 382, an Oklahoma official receiving a bribe is guilty of a felony punishable by up to 10 years in the state penitentiary, a $5,000 fine, and permanent disqualification from holding any public office or trust. Federal bribery convictions scale up to 15 years in prison, fines representing three times the monetary equivalent of the bribe, and permanent removal from all elected or appointed positions.
Bribery defense focuses on intent. We argue that payments were legitimate campaign contributions, lawful gifts, or legitimate business transactions rather than corrupt inducements. We also challenge the prosecution's evidence of a "quid pro quo" — the exchange element required for bribery.
We defend bribery cases in courts across northeastern Oklahoma, including state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions.
White collar charges demand a sophisticated defense strategy.
Tax evasion charges require a defense that understands both law and finance.
Money laundering charges add layers of complexity that demand specialized defense.
Public corruption investigations can unfold for years before charges come.
Mail fraud is a federal catchall that prosecutors use aggressively.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation. A former prosecutor will review your case and outline your best defense options.