Houston Federal Public Corruption Lawyer

Houston Federal Public Corruption Attorney

Public corruption and related offenses are very serious and require a qualified, skilled criminal defense attorney. A dedicated and experienced Houston federal public corruption lawyer can defend you throughout the legal proceedings.

The Law Offices of Richard Kuniansky have effectively handled countless cases involving federal offenses, including public corruption crimes. You may be a citizen accused of seeking improper influence over a court or administrative proceeding. Perhaps you’re a public servant suspected of unethical misconduct. No matter your situation, our knowledgeable and skilled legal team can represent and counsel you during the entire criminal process.

What Is Public Corruption?

Public corruption is the violation of public trust and established governmental systems for one’s own gain. The offense is defined as any unethical or unlawful conduct that entails the illegal misuse of power or trust for financial, political, or personal gain. A common form of public corruption is bribery, but other examples include:

• Blackmail
• Extortion and cyber extortion
• Illegal lobbying
• Conflicts of interest
• Some types of fraud, such as healthcare fraud for profit

Public corruption is a federal crime, and facing any charges of engaging in corrupt activity is very serious. The penalties for a public corruption crime can vary, depending on the exact charges and other factors in your case. While public corruption is a federal crime and may be investigated by federal agencies, depending on the circumstances, corruption-related offenses are generally punished according to state legislation.

Criminal Penalties for Public Corruption in Texas

If convicted of a public corruption offense, the defendant is subject to state penalties. However, if the case is tried in federal court, some convictions may be punishable by harsher penalties. These are examples of criminal penalties for public corruption crimes in Texas:

• Bribery: This second-degree felony is punishable by a prison sentence and a fine.
• Class A Misdemeanors: These include improper influence, acceptance of honorarium (payment for a service or favor), and providing a gift to a public servant by a person under their jurisdiction. A conviction for any of these Class A public corruption misdemeanors can be punishable by a jail or prison term and a fine.
• Willfully and Knowingly Failing to File a Financial Statement: A conviction for this Class B misdemeanor may follow penalties such as a short imprisonment term and a fine.
• Misuse of Official Information: This is a Class C misdemeanor with a minimum penalty of no more than a small fine.

Potential Defense Arguments Against Public Corruption Allegations

It’s highly advised that you entrust a qualified, adept federal defense attorney when facing accusations of public corruption crimes. Even if you’re innocent and the circumstances appear to be a simple misunderstanding, it is not recommended for you to represent yourself in any legal proceedings or meetings with government agents. You want to avoid anything that may incriminate yourself, including destroying any evidence.

Depending on the details of your situation, your criminal defense lawyer may utilize several defense strategies. These can either prove your innocence or secure you the most favorable outcome possible, given the circumstances, such as a lesser sentence or being granted probation instead of serving time in prison. An experienced defense attorney can review the facts of your case and determine which legal options are available to you and which may be most advantageous.

For some individuals, the most beneficial approach may be to obtain a plea deal in exchange for minimal repercussions. Whether your legal representation proceeds with a compelling defense argument or pursues a fair plea bargain, your attorney can work with your interests in mind to secure a successful result. When strategizing your defense, your lawyer may assert one of the following:

• You are innocent of the alleged misconduct.
• There is an absence of illegal activity or a lack of criminal intent behind your actions.
• Coercion took place.

FAQs

Who Investigates Corruption Crimes in Texas?

The Public Integrity and Public Corruption Units of the Texas Rangers investigate corruption offenses and other crimes committed by employees and officers of the state. The Texas Attorney General’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) may also look into public corruption and other white-collar crimes.

The State Auditor’s Office investigates improprieties and unlawful acts regarding entities that receive state funds. The Public Integrity Section of the Department of Justice investigates public corruption related to appointed and elected officials at all levels of government.

What Are the Most Serious Forms of Public Corruption?

The most serious forms of public corruption generally include crimes concerning bribery, kickbacks, and extortion. Extortion includes the unlawful use of threatened or actualized violence, force, or intimidation with the intent of improperly influencing or acquiring assets from a person or entity. Extortion can also involve threatening to damage one’s reputation, taking adverse government action, or offering protection from harm for money. Bribes and kickbacks are forms of illegal payment provided in exchange for improper services or preferential treatment.

What Is the Punishment for a Public Corruption Conviction?

Defendants who have been convicted of public corrupt crimes may face a variety of punishments, depending on:

• The specific offenses involved
• Their history of similar convictions
• The extent and severity of the crime(s)
• Other relevant factors in the case

Most sentences will include some jail or prison time, probation (in certain circumstances), fines, community service, and asset forfeiture.

How Do I Report Corruption in Local Government in Texas?

To report an instance of public corruption in Houston, Texas, it’s recommended that you contact a state Texas Ranger near you and possibly file a complaint when warranted. The Texas Rangers’ Public Integrity Unit and Public Corruption Unit are obligated to investigate crimes and misconduct regarding state employees and public officers.

Take Early Action by Speaking With a Public Corruption Defense Lawyer

Facing charges of public corruption and related offenses is a serious situation to be in. You should take proactive action as soon as you can to improve your chances of a favorable outcome. The Law Offices of Richard Kuniansky is prepared to handle your case. Reach out to us today to schedule a meeting with an experienced and skilled defense attorney.