Bribery and Corruption 

Bribery involves offering, promising, giving, requesting or accepting a financial or other advantage to induce improper performance of a relevant function or activity. Under the Bribery Act 2010, this can apply to both public and private sector activity. 

Individuals can face up to 10 years’ imprisonment and/or unlimited fines. Companies may receive unlimited fines, confiscation orders and serious reputational damage. Sentencing depends on the scale of the conduct, harm caused and level of responsibility. 

Yes. Section 7 of the Bribery Act 2010 creates a corporate offence of failing to prevent bribery by an associated person, unless the organisation can demonstrate that it had adequate procedures designed to prevent bribery. 

Seek immediate specialist legal advice. If approached by the Serious Fraud Office, Financial Conduct Authority or police, do not attend interviews or provide documents without your solicitor advising you. 

It is an offence to offer or provide an advantage to a foreign public official with the intention of influencing them in their official capacity to obtain or retain business or a business advantage. 

Hospitality and gifts are not automatically unlawful. However, if they are excessive or intended to improperly influence a decision, they may fall within the scope of bribery legislation. 

Yes. Even before conviction, investigations can cause reputational harm, regulatory scrutiny and commercial disruption. A conviction may lead to director disqualification, professional sanctions and long-term credibility issues. 

Our business crime solicitors provide strategic advice from the outset, represent you during interviews and court proceedings, review the evidence and build a defence aimed at protecting your liberty, reputation and professional future.