An attorney for commercial bribery — Article 204, 204.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation

30+

years of legal practice in criminal law

95+

successful cases in the sphere of economy

2.5+

Over 2,5 billion rubles ($ 33,3 million) saved for clients

Learn about criminal practice at "Rusyaev & Partners" in 1,5 minutes from our partner and attorney Andrey Olifir

What to do if you are suspected of commercial bribery under Article 204 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation?

A bribery and a commercial bribery have one fundamental difference. A bribery involves the transfer of money and/or assets to a public official of state or municipal authorities, whereas a commercial bribery involves a person performing managerial functions in a commercial or other company. Typically, it refers to violations of fair competition principles in terms of market economy.

The punishment for a commercial bribery is less severe than for bribery, where the interests of the state are betrayed. Maximum penalties include:

• Receiving a commercial bribery (Parts 5–8 of Article 204 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation): imprisonment for up to 12 years with a fine of up to 50 times the amount of the bribe, or other penalties with a fine of up to 90 times the amount of the bribe.
• Giving a bribe (Parts 1–4 of Article 204 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation): imprisonment for up to 8 years with a fine of up to 40 times the amount of the bribe, or other penalties with a fine of up to 70 times the amount of the bribe.
• Mediation in commercial bribery (Parts 1–3 of Article 204.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation): imprisonment for up to 7 years with a fine of up to 40 times the amount of the bribe, or other penalties with a fine of up to 70 times the amount of the bribe.
• Promise or offer of mediation (Part 4 of Article 204.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation): imprisonment for up to 4 years with a fine of up to 15 times the amount of the bribe, or other penalties with a fine of up to 20 times the amount of the bribe.

If a commercial bribe was given in the interests of a legal entity, in this case, in addition to criminal liability, the legal entity is also subject to administrative liability under Article 19.28 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation. The punishment is a fine of 100 times the amount of the commercial bribe, but not less than 100 million rubles ($ 1,3 million) with confiscation.

During the first 48 hours after the detention, it is crucial to behave correctly not to aggravate the situation. Often, during the initial hours, pressure is exerted on the suspect by law enforcement authorities. People under stress may unconsciously provide information against themselves, which may not correspond to reality. Sometimes, under pressure, people may enter into a deal with the investigation on unfavourable terms for themselves.

It is important to understand that the main evidence in a commercial bribery case is making a confession. Only after that the case is usually transferred to the court. Even if the suspect later retracts the confession, it will not change the situation. Therefore, to secure the most advantageous position, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an attorney in the initial hours.

директор юридической компании «Русяев и партнеры»

What situation are you in?

Seek the assistance of an attorney for commercial bribery to protect your rights and legal interests

We provide a comprehensive defence for your interests and rights from the initial hours of the investigation or your detention:

The attorney visits the place of detention or temporary confinement, assesses the risks, and helps develop a defence strategy.

The attorney strives for the release of the suspect or the defendant from custody during the investigation.

The attorney provides assistance during pretrial inspections for further decision to refuse to initiate criminal proceedings.

The attorney offers legal support throughout the investigation and court proceedings: analyses the position of the prosecution and the evidence, assists in forming a defence strategy of your innocence and presenting evidence and arguments to reason your position.

Andrey Olifir, a leading criminal defence attorney and partner at "Rusyaev & Partners"

Our key objective is to build an optimal defence considering all case circumstances and gain tactical advantages from each piece of evidence supporting your innocence.

The attorney's extensive work experience in law enforcement authorities enables to assess the situation objectively, understand how events will unfold, and establish an effective dialogue with law enforcement authorities.

Cost of attorney services for Articles 204, 204.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation

The attorney defends the suspect at all stages of the case, from pretrial inspection to court representation. The services may include:

01

Consultation with the attorney over the phone.

02

Prompt visit of the attorney during operational and investigative activities or detention.

03

Situation assessment and development of a defence line.

04

Collection of evidence to prove the innocence of the suspect, accused, or defendant and the presentation of evidence to law enforcement authorities, the investigation, or the court.

05

Appeal against the actions of law enforcement authorities and the investigation, as well as other assistance in proving your innocence.

06

Active assistance in preventing improper classification of the act, i.e., avoiding excessive severity of the crime, its illegal overqualification, etc., as well as challenging these unlawful actions of the investigation when necessary.

07

Defence of the defendant in court and appeal of the verdict.

Cost of attorney services

The best way to protect yourself, prevent corruption risks and defend yourself against them is to have a framework agreement with an attorney. You can receive expert consultations at any time, as well as the support of the attorney in emergency situations.

30000 rubles / hour ($ 400)

Cost of attorney’s and company partner’s services

Over 30 years of legal practice in criminal law

7 individuals acquitted and 13 criminal cases terminated on rehabilitating grounds

Obtained the status of attorney in March 2010

Denied the initiation of over 75 criminal cases

Saved over 2.5 billion rubles ($ 33,3 million) for our clients by avoiding fines

Who protects your interests and legal rights?

Company partner, criminal defence attorney specialising in economic and corruption cases

What you get when choosing "Rusyaev & Partners"

Effective protection

Our attorney objectively assesses the situation and develops an optimal defence strategy. With experience in law enforcement agencies and handling cases in the fields of economics and corruption, we are able to build a strong defence.

01

Prompt response

You receive assistance from our attorney within a few hours of contacting us. The actions taken in the first 48 hours are crucial in determining the course of the case. Our attorney promptly evaluates the situation and helps define the defence strategy.

02

Resolution of complex issues

You resolve tax and legal issues quickly and efficiently. Our high-level contacts and the status of our company's leaders and partners, enable us to find solutions promptly in contentious situations.

03

Absolute confidentiality

Maximum honesty is the key to our successful collaboration. You can provide us with any confidential information without fear. We guarantee its security and sign a non-disclosure agreement.

04