Criminal Defense Lawyers

Federal Public Corruption Attorney

Corruption and Fraud

Public corruption and government fraud are both white collar crimes characterized by a public official’s abuse of power in exchange (usually) for monetary gain or other assets of value. The most frequent example of government fraud is when a politician takes or solicits a bribe.  Nonetheless, there are a multitude of other means by which a public official can commit fraud. Since public corruption poses a substantial risk to the quality of roads and other public services, community protection, and how the court system functions, the FBI and other federal agencies fervently prosecute individuals who are suspected of carrying out or being involved in corruption.

Government Fraud

If you or someone you love is the target of an investigation or has been arrested for public corruption, it is essential to get the legal representation of a seasoned federal crimes attorney. Such cases can be extremely complex, and so you need to work with an attorney who knows how to deal with and defend such serious charges. 

Public Corruption and Government Fraud Are Federal Offenses

The public corruption cases that are most common generally involve allegations that a public official got or requested a bribe, kickback, or gratuity as compensation for or in connection with an official act. It is critical to note that, in numerous cases, the actual transfer of a bribe is not required to constitute a federal offense.  Indeed, public officials have been arrested on occasion based on the promise of a bribe alone.

There are a multitude of federal statutes that govern the prosecution of public corruption and government fraud. A few of the most frequently used statutes on public corruption cases include:

• Hobbs Act — This Act forbids actual or attempted robbery or extortion that affects interstate or foreign commerce “in any way or degree.”
• RICO — An acronym for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, this federal statute was enacted to combat organized crime in the United States.
• Mail Fraud — Federal mail fraud entails the use of mail services to carry out specified fraudulent acts.
• Wire Fraud — Federal wire fraud includes any fraudulent or deceitful scheme carried out through the use of interstate wires.
• The Travel Act — The Travel Act renders bribery in violation of state or federal law a federal crime.
• 18 USC 201 — The federal official bribery and gratuity statute.
• Foreign Corrupt Practices Act — This federal act renders it unlawful to furnish payments to  anyforeign government official to assist in obtaining or retaining business.

Various Forms of Public Corruption

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

The multitude of federal statutes listed above are the government’s effort to cover virtually any type or form of public corruption. That said, corruption and government fraud continue to be common across America. Several of the most common methods that public officials use to commit corruption and fraud include:

• Bribery
• Money laundering
• Bid rigging
• Extortion (including bribery, blackmail, and ransom)
• Graft
• Honest services fraud
• Embezzlement of public monies
• Campaign law violation
• Defrauding the government

It is important to understand that public corruption can take place at the local, state, or federal level.

Possible Punishments for Public Corruption Convictions

Since federal agencies aggressively work to curtail instances of this federal crime, public corruption and government fraud carry extremely harsh penalties. Generally speaking, punishment on the heels of a successful conviction could include both incarceration and fines. The fine is likely to be commensurate with the value of the money, goods, or services that were fraudulently gained. Moreover, the prison terms connected with public corruption are known to be rather  long, often lasting up to 20 years. Finally, if a public official has been apprehended in an act of corruption, then he/she might lose the ability to campaign for any public office thereafter.

Also, public corruption holds a statute of limitations of five years. Pursuant to federal statute 18 USC 3282, a person (in this case, a public official) can be protected from prosecution if the alleged noncapital offense failed to result in an indictment within five years of the offense.

Defending Against Federal Public Corruption Charges

Federal investigators have monumental resources, money, and influence when carrying out an investigation regarding public corruption. Because of this, these are not matters to be taken lightly. If a federal investigator has reached out to you or a loved one, make certain that you call a federal crimes lawyer as soon as you can. Even if no formal charges have been filed against you yet, an well informed attorney can start functioning as your spokesperson for communication with investigators and diligently fight to prevent the charges from being filed.

If, on the other hand, public corruption charges have been already filed, however, then you definitely need a corruption defense attorney to assist you through this long, complex legal situation. Your lawyer can confront the prosecution’s narrative, evidence, and witness testimony with evidence on your side and keep you abreast of court dates and proceedings.