William G. Yarborough

Beware of the fine line between bribes and gifts

Free Evaluation
100% Secure & Confidential

For centuries, people have given gifts to convey their thanks and affection. Gift-giving is often a sign of goodwill, but when it is done to put pressure on a public official, it can quickly descend into bribery. Even if the recipient declines to accept the bribe, offering it in the first place is illegal.

When is a gift appropriate?

There is nothing wrong with giving someone a gift as a token of thanks. Likewise, giving gifts appropriate for a special occasion such as a wedding, childbirth or commemorating someone’s recovery from an illness may also be acceptable. But if that gift is given with the expectation of receiving something or changing an outcome in return, things can quickly become complicated.

It is worth noting it is generally unacceptable for public officials to accept any gifts save for a few exceptions. For instance, a public official may only accept a gift if it is a reasonable amount of food and non-alcoholic drinks, costs $20 or less or is given because of a personal relationship.

Generally, it is advisable to avoid offering a gift that would cause any reasonable individual to doubt the public official’s integrity or impartiality.

What constitutes bribery?

In South Carolina, giving something of value to a public official, government employee or elected representative in order to influence how they enact their responsibilities constitutes bribery. Likewise, because the law deems soliciting and accepting something of value to be bribery, it may equally apply to the recipient.

The people’s perception of the government deteriorates when public officials commit acts of corruption such as bribery. Therefore, anyone caught engaging in bribery of a public official may face a felony charge that carries up to 10 years in jail and pay a fine of up to $10,000.

South Carolina imposes harsh and life-changing punishments for bribery. Anyone suspected of bribery might want to speak with a criminal defense attorney for guidance on how to navigate the criminal justice system and what possible defenses might be effective for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

WGY Logo White

100% Confidential
Available 24/7

Call 864-808-6871

"*" indicates required fields