Don’t let bribery and corruption hurt your business

First4Lawyers has knowledge and experience in bribery and corruption law to assist you in developing a code of conduct for your workforce and to defend your company against allegations of corruption.

How do you define bribery and corruption?

The Bribery Act 2010 defines bribery as the improper exchange of money (or “other advantage”) to or from another person in exchange for certain “relevant” actions.

Corruption is generally recognised as dishonest or fraudulent action by those in power, for personal gain.

The Act applies to actions one performs “in both the private and public sectors” and covers activity both inside and outside the UK.

It also criminalises the bribery of foreign public officials under Section 6 - defined as distinct from the “general” bribery offences. As a result, there is no need for the prosecutor to show that the foreign public official accepted the bribe(s) or behaved improperly.

Perhaps most importantly for those owning or running a business, Section 7 of the Act deems failure to prevent bribery a “corporate offence”.

Why do I need the help of solicitors?

Although the Ministry of Justice has published a guide to help businesses install "adequate procedures” to prevent bribery and/or corruption by you, your employees or persons associated with them, it’s advisable to seek professional guidance to actually put them in place and ensure they’re lawful .

It is also recommended if you wish to carry out an internal investigation because you suspect an employee, or someone associated with your firm, has been involved in bribery and/or corruption.

Legal assistance could also be useful if you or your employees wish to consider “self-reporting” to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO). Trained corporate solicitors may be able to help you negotiate a deferred prosecution agreement.

If you are subject to an internal disciplinary investigation by your employer and you are concerned about the potential criminal consequences, a lawyer will be able to assess your situation and help you decide the best course of action.

If you – or your employees - are approached to act as prosecution witnesses in large scale bribery and corruption proceedings, you must contact a specialist corruption lawyer as soon as possible.

Finally, legal advice is a must if you, your business, or employees are under formal criminal investigation by authorities and subject to:

  • Prosecution and trial
  • Dawn raids
  • Search warrants at your business premises or home
  • Arrest and interview under caution.

Why choose First4Lawyers?

Expert legal services for your business needs - whether it's employment law, policies or commercial property, we can help.

Free initial case review
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Our fully trained legal advisors are happy to offer initial guidance and advice for free

Panel of expert solicitors
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All our solicitors are pre-vetted and experts in providing legal services for business

No pressure
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We offer advice with no obligation.  We never cold-call or apply pressure to our customers

Get in Touch

I am under investigation for bribery and/or corruption – what should I do?

Being the subject of a criminal investigation can be very trying for a business, and for all of those involved. Not only is the reputation of your firm at stake, but your personal and professional standing may also suffer untold harm.

Our expert lawyers work with executives, directors and other high level individuals within companies – as well as the firms they work for – all over the UK.

We can allocate experts in employment law, corporate and civil litigation, as well as business crime and regulation. We are here to offer you realistic and tactical advice, and defend you in court should it ever be necessary.

If you are being investigated for corruption, or are looking to avoid litigation, get in touch and speak to one of our advisors about how we can help you.

Need a hand? First4Lawyers will...

  • Review your legal requirements for free
  • Recommend the most appropriate action based on your personal needs
  • Assign you a pre-vetted solicitor from our expert panel

Holly was amazing, her attentiveness, understanding and her general customer care was outstanding. Made me feel very comfortable speaking to her. I could not recommend a better company to speak to and with such amazing staff.

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I was dealt with the most kind and caring manner by Rebeka. Also very efficient by explaining everything I had to know and connecting me to a solicitors who would deal with my claim. Thank you!

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Nice staff, very helpful and very easy to deal with. The initial part only took a few minutes. Staff also very knowledgeable and know what they are talking about.

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Spoke with a lovely advisor called Chelsea who was great. She listened to everything that I said and gave brilliant advice. Her customer service was brilliant, she was very polite and gave me all the information about what are the next steps.

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Get in touch today to discuss your requirements 08005677866
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