You will face fines, jail time, and a permanent entry on your criminal record that will be public information. The record of your bribery conviction may keep you from getting a job, applying for professional licenses, and owning a firearm.
Owing to the harsh consequences of a bribery conviction, you should retain the services of an experienced Detroit bribery lawyer as soon as you come under the scrutiny of the authorities. If you suspect you are being investigated for a crime, you should hire a legal professional immediately. The earlier you get the protection of a lawyer, the better your chances of avoiding a conviction.
How Does Michigan Law Define Bribery?
Michigan Penal Code section 750.117 prohibits bribing a public officer. Bribery occurs when a person offers or promises to give any money or thing of value to a public officer with the intent to influence an act, vote, opinion, or official decision of that public officer. This offense is a felony punishable by lengthy prison sentences and crippling fines.
The public officer who accepts the bribe may be charged under Michigan Penal Code section 750.118. Specifically, the statute makes it a felony for an executive, legislative, or judicial officer to make an official act in exchange for something of value. The maximum penalty for this felony is a ten-year prison sentence or a fine of up to $5,000.
Under Michigan Penal Code section 750.119, it’s illegal to give a bribe to any of the following:
- Appraisers
- Receivers
- Trustees
- Administrators
- Executors
- Commissioners
- Auditors
- Arbitrators
- Referees
The maximum penalty for this felony is a four-year prison sentence along with a possible $5,000 fine. If the offense is committed in the context of a criminal trial for an offense punishable by ten or more years of prison time, the maximum penalty increases to ten years in prison and fines of $20,000.
Of course, it’s also illegal for any person exercising the functions listed above to be on the receiving end of a bribe. If you’re an appraiser, trustee, juror, or arbitrator who received a bribe, you could face felony charges under Michigan Penal Code section 750.120.
