Public Corruption Crimes

For years, law enforcement and prosecutors have closely scrutinized elected officials, public servants and lobbyists. Unfortunately, much of the public has come to expect these investigations. In fact, we have all have seen the prosecution of governors, senators, mayors, councilmen and other public servants. One need not reach beyond New York City, Albany and New Jersey to see exactly that. Just as with all professionals, there are some public servants who have abused their position of power and trust by taking bribes and demanding kickbacks in exchange for votes or taking actions favorable to a third party. However, Federal prosecutors have also put innocent, hard-working, dedicated public employees under the microscope improperly. Sometimes they look at the relationship between the elected officials and lobbyists. Sometimes they question an innocent gift or activity between friends or colleagues. Inadvertently, and improperly, official corruption cases call into question the legitimate actions of elected officials.

• From Witness to Target: Potential Exposure & Consequences of a Federal Investigation
• Understanding the Federal Arrest Process: The Importance of Knowledgeable Counsel
• The Federal Court Process From Arrest to Potential Sentence
• Federal Sentencing Guidelines: Understanding Your Criminal Exposure

Because of the politically charged environment and 24-hour news cycle that we live in, people tend to rush to judgment first and ask questions later. With that in mind, it is crucial that public officials obtain skilled counsel to navigate the sensitive nature of any Federal corruption allegation or investigation. The Federal criminal defense attorneys and former prosecutors at Saland Law will deftly traverse the complexities associated with any public corruption case. We can help protect the good name that any elected or public official has worked an entire career to establish by zealously advocating on his or her behalf. Whether you are an elected or appointed official servant, lobbyist, public employee, or otherwise mired in a Federal criminal corruption probe, Saland Law’s knowledge, advocacy and experience can be your guide and strongest defense.

• Federal Arrest Warrants: What it Means and Your Next Steps
• Understanding the Federal Bail Process
• Understanding Federal Subpoenas: How the Government Can Force You to Appear

Often, the Federal government attempts to prosecute government officials under the so-called “honest services” theory of fraud, based on the belief that all elected servants owe a duty of honest services to the public, and by violating that, they have made a material misrepresentation and committed fraud. In United States v. Skilling, the Supreme Court significantly hampered that theory, holding that “honest services” relates to bribery and kickback schemes, but not necessarily to all decision-making.

Federal Public Corruption cases of local, state and Federal officials are often prosecuted as one or more Federal crime.

• Wire Fraud: Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343
• Mail Fraud: Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341
• Securities Fraud: Title 18, United States Code, Section 1348
• Bribery of Public Officials: Title 18, United States Code, Section 201
• Illegal Campaign Finance Contributions: Title 2, United States Code, Section 441a
• False Statements to a Federal Law Enforcement Official: Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001
• Federal Conspiracy Crimes
• Federal White Collar Crimes

Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum as a public servant or an individual involved in this capacity, exposure to the numerous Federal crimes for otherwise honest or legitimate conduct is not merely a terrifying prospect, but a reality for many. Not merely is your name, livelihood and the security of your family at stake, but your personal liberties and financial liability will be tremendously compromised upon a conviction.

Protect yourself inside the courtroom and long after your case is closed. Contact Saland Law and utilize our experience, advocacy and knowledge as your strongest defense.

Call the Federal criminal lawyers and former prosecutors at (212) 312-7129 or contact us online today.