Giving a bribe

Legal defence in bribery cases

Giving a bribe (Article 290 of the Criminal Code) consists of promising, offering or giving money or benefits under the conditions of Article 289 and carries 2 to 7 years’ imprisonment. The provision does not expressly impose a mandatory ancillary prohibition. Even a lawful official act may fall within bribery. Coercion by the recipient may exclude the criminal nature of the act, while reporting it before the investigating body has been notified may result in non-punishment. These conditions must be checked before action is taken. The court with ordinary subject-matter jurisdiction is the tribunal.

Penalties and defence strategies

We analyse what was promised, offered or given and its connection to the official’s act. Absence of an act contrary to official duties does not exclude bribery. Coercion under Article 290(2) must be proved and is not the same as merely demanding a benefit.
Reporting can have its statutory effect only if it precedes notification of the offence to the investigating body. The lawyer checks timing, evidence and the treatment of property. Entrapment prohibited by Article 101 CPP is assessed separately from coercion by the recipient and a lawful evidence-gathering operation.

Urgent legal assistance in Romania

Corruption accusations involve major risks to your liberty and reputation, requiring a prompt, specialised legal response. Basuc Cosmin Law Office provides comprehensive legal assistance to navigate the complexity of criminal cases in which you are a suspect or defendant. We assist at interviews before criminal investigation bodies and prosecutors in Romania, formulate defence strategies tailored to the case evidence and provide representation before the courts of competent tribunals or the competent district courts, seeking to protect your rights and obtain the most favourable lawful outcome.