BRIBERY

Bribery is a serious criminal offense that involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influence over the actions of a public official or another person in a position of power. In Florida, bribery is not limited to government officials—it can also occur in the private sector, particularly in business dealings where unethical inducements are used to influence decisions, contracts, or outcomes. At its core, bribery undermines trust in institutions and the fairness of both public and private processes.

Under Florida Statutes § 838.015, bribery is classified as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000. The law prohibits corruptly giving, offering, or promising anything of value to a public official with the intent to influence their performance of a public duty. Similarly, it’s illegal for a public servant to accept or agree to accept a bribe in exchange for any official act. The statute applies to a wide range of individuals, including elected officials, judges, law enforcement officers, and others employed by government entities.

Florida courts treat bribery offenses with particular gravity, as they often involve a breach of public trust. Prosecutors must show that there was a corrupt intent—meaning the action was done knowingly and with the aim of influencing a decision or act. Even if the bribe is never completed or the official action is never taken, merely offering or agreeing to a bribe can be enough to constitute a criminal offense.

Beyond criminal penalties, those convicted of bribery in Florida may face additional consequences, such as disqualification from holding public office, loss of professional licenses, and reputational damage that can follow them for life. Because bribery cases often involve complex investigations and legal standards, individuals accused of this crime should seek experienced legal counsel immediately to protect their rights and mount a strong defense.

In Florida, combating bribery is essential to maintaining the integrity of both government and business operations. The law is clear and comprehensive—and those involved in official or high-stakes decision-making roles must act with transparency and ethics to avoid criminal liability.

At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand that bribery charges are not just legal issues—they are personal, professional, and reputational crises. Allegations of bribery, especially those involving public officials or business leaders, can severely impact an individual’s career, relationships, and standing in the community. Our strategy is to respond swiftly, thoroughly, and aggressively to protect our clients from these high-stakes accusations. 

The cornerstone of our defense in bribery cases is challenging the intent. Florida law requires that the act be committed corruptly—that is, with the intent to influence an official action or decision. We dissect the prosecution’s evidence to show that there was no corrupt purpose, and that any transaction or communication in question was lawful, misinterpreted, or taken out of context. Many times, legitimate gifts, campaign contributions, or business interactions are mistaken for bribes. Our team works diligently to highlight the difference between legal conduct and criminal conduct.