Public corruption law keeps public officials and those who try to buy influence and undue advantages from them accountable for their illegal actions. This area of the law includes a long list of possible charges, and each charge is very similar to the others except for a few specific distinctions. A bribe, for example, is very similar to a graft, but while a bribe requires the participation of 2 separate parties, graft offenses can be committed by a single official.
If you’re facing public corruption charges, do so with the knowledge of what you’re being charged with and how that charge differs from other similar charges. Don’t forget to read part 1 of our public corruption glossary.
A Few Key Terms You Should Know
Blackmail: A person blackmails another person when he or she threatens to reveal embarrassing, socially damaging, or criminally incriminating, etc., information to the public, a family member, or associates unless the threatened person meets some sort of demand.
Illegal Kickback: Although kickbacks are not always illegal, an illegal kickback is the payment of money, gifts, or anything of value to a person as compensation for a favorable action. It’s called a “kickback” because the person receiving payment procures an undue advantage for the person paying, and a portion of that advantage gets “kicked back” to the person receiving payment.
Graft: A graft is some sort of personal gain or advantage acquired through dishonest means such as the abuse of one’s position or political influence. Graft charges only require the participation of the public official, and he or she need only gain something of value other than his or her official pay in order to be charged.
Get the Help You Need From a Trusted New Jersey Criminal Lawyer
When it comes right down to it, there’s no doubt that if you’re being investigated for public corruption, the best thing you can do is speak with a local lawyer. Fortunately if you’re seeking a criminal attorney in Newark, we’d be glad to take on your case. No matter what you’re up against, you can rest assured that we’ll be there to provide you with a tenacious defense at every step of the way. You don’t have to fight these charges alone.
For help with your public corruption or other white collar crime charges in Newark, contact the experienced lawyers at the law firm of Robert. J. DeGroot.
