Accused of Bribery? Our Defense Attorney is Ready to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with bribery in Massachusetts, you need a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney who understands how to navigate the complexities of white-collar crime. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a trusted criminal defense law firm with offices in Boston and Salem, dedicated to defending individuals facing serious criminal charges, including bribery, across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Our team includes a former prosecutor who offers a valuable perspective on how the state builds its case. This insider knowledge helps us anticipate strategies used by the prosecution and build a defense that challenges the allegations against you.
We provide strategic, focused defense to individuals in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, and other nearby cities and towns. Whether you’re a public official, business owner, or private citizen, a bribery charge can have serious consequences—including fines, imprisonment, and permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation. That’s why you need a Boston criminal defense attorney who takes your case personally and fights aggressively to protect your rights.
What Is Bribery Under Massachusetts Law?
In Massachusetts, bribery is defined and penalized under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 268A. Bribery occurs when someone offers, gives, receives, or agrees to receive anything of value with the intent to influence an official act, public duty, or decision made by a public official. This crime can also involve private individuals when the act of bribery impacts a position of trust or business operation.
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 268A, both the giver and the receiver can be criminally liable, and the law applies to a wide range of professionals, including government employees, contractors, elected officials, and corporate executives. The Commonwealth takes bribery cases seriously, and conviction can result in:
- State prison sentence of up to 10 years
- Fines of up to $100,000
- Disqualification from holding public office
The law also allows prosecution even if the bribe did not result in the intended action. Merely agreeing to the offer can be enough to support a charge. For more details, you can review the full statute on Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 268A.
Why You Need an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney for Bribery Charges
Bribery cases are rarely straightforward. They often involve complex investigations, extensive documentation, witness testimony, and electronic communications. Law enforcement and prosecutors spend months—sometimes years—building cases against individuals, often using evidence gathered from wiretaps, emails, financial records, or cooperating witnesses.
As a criminal defense law firm that regularly defends clients against white-collar crime allegations, we understand that being charged with bribery does not mean you’re guilty. Our defense begins with an in-depth review of the evidence and the circumstances that led to the investigation. We look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, including:
- Lack of intent
- Unreliable witnesses
- Ambiguous language or context
- Violations of your constitutional rights
- Improper investigative methods
An aggressive criminal defense attorney can challenge these flaws in court and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges where possible. We aim to prevent long-term damage to your career and reputation and protect your freedom.
Areas We Serve: Suffolk, Essex, and Middlesex Counties
Our offices in Boston and Salem allow us to effectively represent clients throughout Eastern Massachusetts. We defend individuals charged with bribery in cities and towns such as, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Wherever you are located, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is ready to defend your rights and provide the representation you need when facing criminal charges.
What Sets Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Apart
Our team brings the advantage of aggressive courtroom experience combined with insider knowledge from a former prosecutor. This unique blend of perspectives helps us build smart, effective strategies that get results. We take a personal approach to every case, making sure you understand your options at each stage of the legal process. You’re not just another case to us—you’re a person with a future worth protecting.
Whether you’re under investigation or have already been charged, the sooner you get a Massachusetts defense attorney involved, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
Don’t Wait—Start Protecting Your Future Today
A bribery charge can impact your job, relationships, and personal freedom. Don’t let one accusation define your life. If you’ve been charged or are under investigation in Boston, Salem, or anywhere in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties, contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson now to set up a confidential strategy session. Our team is ready to provide the aggressive, experienced legal support you need to move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered bribery in Massachusetts?
Bribery in Massachusetts involves offering or receiving something of value to influence a public official’s actions. It applies to both the person offering the bribe and the one accepting it. Even offering or agreeing to accept a bribe can lead to criminal charges.
Can I be charged with bribery if no money was exchanged?
Yes. Under Massachusetts law, the crime occurs even if no money or gift was actually transferred. The offer or agreement alone can be enough to support charges.
Is bribery a felony in Massachusetts?
Yes. Bribery is a felony offense and can lead to up to 10 years in state prison, as well as significant fines and other penalties.
How do prosecutors prove bribery?
Prosecutors look for evidence of intent, such as written or recorded communication, witness testimony, financial records, or cooperation from others involved. However, the context and accuracy of this evidence can often be challenged.
What should I do if I'm being investigated for bribery?
You should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators or law enforcement without legal representation. An experienced Boston defense attorney can guide you and protect your rights from the start.