Hire a Skilled Bribery Defense Attorney in San Gabriel, CA

Attorney Jonathon Perliss
Written By
Jonathon Perliss

Bribery
Charges

If you've been accused of bribery in San Gabriel or the surrounding areas, you’re facing a serious legal battle with harsh potential consequences. Your career, finances, and freedom are on the line, and that can get overwhelming fast. You don’t have to face it alone. 

At Perliss Law Firm, we understand the sensitive nature of bribery charges and the damage they can do to your personal and professional reputation. With over 30 years of criminal defense experience and former prosecutorial insight, our legal team provides strategic, discreet, and aggressive representation tailored to your situation.

Whether you’re a public official, business professional, or private citizen, our defense attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights and challenge the accusations brought against you.

California Lawyers
Avvo Rating
best of best review winner 2025 badge
Pasadena Magazine Top Attorney
Perliss Law Firm 2025 badge expertise
Avvo Clients Choice

Our Simple Process

1
A telephone
CONTACT US
2
A document
FREE CONSULTATION
3
A magnifying glass
CASE INVESTIGATION
4
A trophy
RESULTS

What Is Bribery Under California Law?

a man in a suit passing money in an envelope

Under California Penal Code Sections 92 through 100, bribery refers to the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value with the intent to influence the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or employee in a way that compromises their legal or professional responsibilities.

Bribery charges in California may involve:

Attempting to influence a public official’s decision or vote

Offering cash or gifts to law enforcement or inspectors

Accepting money or favors in exchange for special treatment

Business owners seeking preferential treatment through illicit payments

Depending on the circumstances, bribery can be charged as a felony, carrying consequences such as:

Up to 4 years in state prison

Hefty fines (up to $10,000 or more)

Permanent loss of professional licenses

Irreparable damage to your reputation

Immigration consequences for non-citizens

That final decision in court will come down to your defense strategies and how you execute them. That’s why we’re here to help. At Perliss Law Firm, our team has over 30 years of experience fighting bribery charges and getting our clients’ charges reduced or dismissed. 

We will do all we can to fight for you and your freedom.

Key Things to Know About Bribery Allegations

Bribery cases are often built on circumstantial evidence, recorded conversations, or cooperating witnesses. Here are several important things to understand:

Intent is Crucial:

Prosecutors must prove that your actions were done with the corrupt intent to influence or be influenced by others. Accidental or misunderstood interactions are not enough to meet that threshold.

Public vs. Private Bribery:

While most California statutes address public corruption, certain federal laws also apply to bribery involving private business contracts and commercial advantage.

You May Be Investigated Before You're Charged:

In many bribery cases, the investigation happens quietly before an arrest. If you suspect you’re under scrutiny, call a defense attorney immediately. Our team at Perliss Law Firm can work adamantly to build your case before the charges even occur.

Bribery Can Trigger Related Charges:

Accusations may be accompanied by conspiracy, fraud, money laundering, or obstruction of justice charges. A comprehensive defense strategy is critical.

Common Defenses to Bribery Charges in California
a person giving money to another person

Every bribery case is unique, and the right defense depends on the evidence and your specific circumstances. At Perliss Law Firm, we carefully examine every aspect of your case to identify possible weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims. Common defenses include:

Lack of Intent –

You didn’t knowingly offer or accept a bribe.

Entrapment –

Law enforcement induced you to commit an act you wouldn’t have done otherwise.

Insufficient Evidence –

The prosecution can’t prove the required elements beyond a reasonable doubt.

Misunderstanding –

A legitimate gift or transaction was misinterpreted as bribery.

We leave no stone unturned when it comes to defending your future. Our lead attorney, Jonathan Perliss, analyzes every detail, small or big, to create a personalized argument against the prosecution.

What to Expect When You Work With Perliss Law Firm

From your first consultation through every phase of your case, we ensure you understand your rights, your legal options, and what steps come next. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

1
Free, Confidential Consultation –

Speak directly with an experienced attorney about your charges.

2
Clear Legal Guidance –

Understand the penalties you’re facing and your potential defenses.

3
Thorough Investigation –

We examine every detail, including financial records, communications, and witness statements.

4
Tailored Defense Strategy –

No cookie-cutter tactics. We build a legal plan around your specific case.

5
Direct Attorney Access –

You’ll work directly with our team—not get lost in a large, impersonal firm.

Our lead attorney, Jonathan Perliss, brings a calm, professional, and modern approach to what can often be an overwhelming legal situation. He’s here to guide you and fight for your freedom in court.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

A Legacy of Amazing Results

CONSPIRACY & BANK ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
The Santa Monica branch of a major bank was robbed at gunpoint. My client worked at the bank and was charged with setting up the crime, meeting with the accomplice and teaching him how, when and where to do the robbery, and giving him the gun. My client was facing over fifteen years in prison.
DRUNK DRIVING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was prosecuted for driving with a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit. The defense maintained the police did not comply with their regulations when they administered the breath test without waiting the requisite fifteen minutes after initial detention.
KIDNAPPING-ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was arrested while sitting in a van wearing a ski mask. There were two women tied up in the back of the van. Jewelry from the women's house was found in my client's pocket and a gun was found underneath his seat.
MURDER
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.
PETTY THEFT/SHOPLIFTING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client exited a large department store carrying a bag of stolen merchandise. He was detained by security five feet outside the store, but still inside the larger shopping mall. He claimed he panicked when he realized that his small children were missing, and he went searching for them. The children were found inside the Mall's pet shop. The prosecutor argued that my client planned the incident.
SPOUSAL ABUSE
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client, a police officer, was accused of pummeling his wife with his fists. The wife immediately went to the local police department to report the crime and gave a lengthy videotaped statement. My client claimed that the wife was very angry at him for what she believed was his cheating on her and she fabricated the crime.
PROSTITUTION
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with agreeing to a sex act with an undercover police officer. The defense was that the officer exaggerated the conversation and the client never agreed to the act.
GRAND THEFT
HUNG JURY, DISMISSED
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.

Why Choose Perliss Law Firm for Your Bribery Defense

a lawyer in an office with a client

Choosing the right legal team could be the difference between a fresh start and a felony record. At Perliss Law Firm, we bring:

Over 30 Years of Criminal Defense Experience –

We know judges and prosecutors in local courts

Former Prosecutor Advantage –

We understand how the other side thinks

Strategic, Modern Legal Tactics –

Customized to fit your case

English & Mandarin Services –

So nothing gets lost in translation

A Trusted Reputation in San Gabriel and LA County –

We’re your local defense advocates

We’ve successfully defended clients in complex white-collar cases and stand ready to do the same for you.

Serving San Gabriel and Surrounding Areas

Our firm proudly defends clients throughout LA County and nearby communities, including:

Alhambra
Monterey Park
Pasadena
Temple City
And within a 20–30 mile radius of San Gabriel

No matter where you are in this legal journey, we’re ready to step in and advocate for you. Hire our team and get access to trusted bribery defense attorneys in California. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Bribery Charges
Is bribery a felony in California?

Yes. Bribery is typically charged as a felony in California and can result in several years of prison time, large fines, and long-term professional consequences. There are a few unique circumstances where commercial bribery has been charged as a misdemeanor, but a felony charge is much more common.

Can I be charged even if no money changed hands?

Yes. Offering or requesting something of value with the intent to improperly influence an official decision can be enough for a charge—even if the exchange never occurred.

What’s the difference between bribery and extortion?

Bribery involves offering something to influence someone’s decision. Extortion involves using threats or force to obtain something against someone's will.

Can bribery charges be dropped?

Yes, especially if the evidence is weak, improperly obtained, or if the prosecution cannot prove intent. A skilled attorney can challenge the basis of the charge and potentially negotiate a dismissal or reduction.

What should I do if I’m being investigated for bribery?

Do not speak to investigators or law enforcement without a lawyer present. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and begin preparing your defense.

Protect Your Future – Contact Perliss Law Firm Today
Two people shaking hands.

Bribery charges can derail your life, but you don’t have to face them alone. Let us be your shield in court and your voice in negotiation. Contact Perliss Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation and start building your defense.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Criminal Defense Law Firm Perliss Law Firm

Why Choose Us?

1
We are experts from both sides of the courtroom.
Former California Prosecutor Now Fighting For You.
2
Dedicated to the aggressive and zealous representation
Often able to achieve results that other lawyers cannot.
3
Generational trial law experience.
Trial lawyer of over 40 years.
4
Experienced lawyers and staff members
We have the means to help you with your criminal case, and keep you informed throughout the process.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Perliss Law Firm
Sign up for our newsletter for essential legal insights and tips!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our firm.
Copyright © 2025 Perliss Law Firm. All Rights Reserved.
Designed by:
Lab Coat Marketing