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 applies to both public and private sector activities.

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, unless the organisation can demonstrate it had adequate procedures designed to prevent such conduct.

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

It is an offence to offer or provide an advantage to a foreign public official intending to influence 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 specialist business crime solicitors provide strategic advice from the outset, represent you during interviews and court proceedings, and build a robust defence aimed at protecting your liberty, reputation and professional future.