Dallas Bribery Lawyer
Dallas Bribery Attorney
Bribery is considered a serious crime in the state of Texas, and being convicted of this crime can have wide-reaching implications for you and your family. That’s why it’s important to have a Dallas bribery lawyer on your side who can help you protect your rights and fight against the charges brought against you from the very beginning.
Why Choose Michael Uhl, P.C.
At Michael Uhl, P.C., you’ll have an ally experienced in white-collar crime with a proven track record of successfully defending bribery charges in Dallas, Texas. Prosecutor-turned-defense attorney Michael Uhl has nearly 40 years of experience at the state and federal levels, helping individuals fight against bribery charges.
Our firm understands that these charges threaten your freedom, career, reputation, and future. That’s why we offer sound legal advice and can create a defense strategy unique to your situation. We understand the stakes, so we can work tirelessly to help you secure a favorable outcome in your bribery case.
Bribery in the U.S.
In Texas, under Penal Code § 36.02, bribery is usually considered a second-degree felony. It involves knowingly or intentionally offering or accepting anything of value, such as gifts, favors, or money, to influence another’s decision in exchange.
In the 2024 fiscal year, of the 61,678 cases reported to the United States Sentencing Commission, 229 involved bribery, which is an increase of 56% since the 2020 fiscal year.
These numbers could be a result of increased federal scrutiny of this crime, which makes early legal intervention vital, even if you are a first-time offender. In fact, approximately 90.7% of those who committed a bribery offense had minimal or no prior criminal history.
Considering the severe effects of bribery cases, you should hire a bribery lawyer if you’ve found yourself charged with this crime.
Bribery Offenses in Dallas, Texas
Dallas is not without its bribery scandals. In 2024, a prominent housing developer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery after admitting to making payments to former city council members, including a former Dallas Mayor, in exchange for support of his affordable housing projects.
This form of public official bribery, or more specifically, bribery of elected officials, isn’t the only type of bribery handled by our Dallas bribery attorney. The following are also forms of bribery:
- Commercial bribery
- Bribery of a public servant or party official
- Improper gifts/benefits to public servants
- Juror bribery
- Vote-buying
- Bribery of law enforcement or regulatory officials
- Export and import bribery
Penalties for Bribery in Dallas
Given that bribery cases are typically treated as felonies, they often carry steep sentences. According to Texas Penal Code § 12.33, bribery crimes are punishable by:
- No less than two years but no more than 20 years imprisonment in state prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
In recent years, several high-profile elected officials and real estate developers in Dallas have lost their careers. In many cases, those convicted have had to repay any illegal gifts in addition to serving their sentences. The resulting loss of public trust, professional licenses, and eligibility for future office or contracts often ends careers permanently.
Possible Defenses Against Bribery Charges
It can be challenging to navigate defenses against bribery, which is why speaking with a Dallas bribery lawyer is always a good idea. One possible defense is to argue that the offer or payment was meant as a gift and not intended as a bribe.
A similar defense was used in the 2025 retrial of another real estate developer who was previously convicted of federal bribery charges. After his conviction, the court found that the jury was misinformed on the difference between a criminal bribe and a gratuity. This was a key factor in his acquittal.
Another defense could be that you made a plea or request for assistance or for a certain outcome, but there was no intent, agreement, or promise to exchange anything of value. You could also argue that there isn’t enough evidence to prove bribery or that you didn’t intend to influence an official act or decision.
Your lawyer can determine what defense is most appropriate and likely to result in a favorable outcome in your case.
FAQs
What Should I Do if Investigators Contact Me About a Bribery Case?
Should federal agents or investigators contact you to discuss a bribery case they suspect you’re involved with, do not discuss anything with them without a lawyer present. Often, even informal conversations can be used against you at a later date as evidence. You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible and let them handle communications with investigators on your behalf.
What Types of Evidence Are Common in Bribery Cases?
Usually, evidence like emails, text messages, recorded conversations, financial records, and third-party testimony is common in bribery cases. In your defense, your attorney can examine whether this evidence was lawfully obtained and whether it accurately reflects a quid pro quo. With these cases, context matters, so there is a chance evidence can be disproven in your favor.
Can Bribery Charges Be Filed Without an Arrest in Dallas?
Unfortunately, in Dallas, Texas, bribery charges can be filed without an arrest. This is because bribery cases often start with audits, subpoenas, or internal investigations rather than arrests. Usually, charges are filed later on, based on recorded communications, documentation, or third-party testimony.
Because these cases often involve months or years of evidence gathering, it is incredibly important to hire legal representation as soon as you are aware of charges or an investigation.
Do You Need a Lawyer if You Are Under Investigation for Bribery in Dallas?
Yes, you need a lawyer if you are under investigation for bribery in Dallas. An attorney can help protect your rights, manage communications with investigators, and work to build a defense in your favor by gathering necessary evidence. In addition, a lawyer can help you avoid making statements or doing something that could harm your case.
Hire a Bribery Lawyer Today
Being charged with or under investigation for bribery can be an overwhelming and incredibly stressful situation, but you don’t have to go it alone. When you speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney at Michael Uhl, P.C., you can begin to formulate a strong defense.
Given that these crimes are punished harshly, time is of the essence, and your freedom is at stake, do not delay reaching out. If you’re ready to speak with our team, contact us to set up a consultation today. We are familiar with local bribery laws and know what it takes to win your case.
Dallas Bribery Lawyer Reviews
★★★★★
“The Best of the Best. Mike is direct & upfront with you from the beginning. His honesty about your situation and a solution is what sets Mike apart from everyone else. If you are in a bad situation , Michael Uhl is your guy.” – Dave S.
★★★★★
“You cannot put a price on liberty. My experience is that Mike is a well connected in the system. It should be noted that as an Adjunct Professor at SMU Law School, he has taught more than a few of the DAs in the area. He is able to get things done. The best attribute of having Mike as my representation was his ability to manage my expectations and not make false promises. He is a straight shooter that lays out your options. His background, as a law professor, makes him very good at simplifying complex legal concepts.” – Maxwell
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