Facing Bribery Charges in Rockingham County? Get Aggressive Legal Representation Now
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we’re more than just lawyers. We are relentless advocates. With a background that includes a former prosecutor, our team knows exactly how the state builds bribery cases under New Hampshire RSA 640:2. We also know how to turn that knowledge into a strong defense for clients across Rockingham County, including Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Salem.
From the very first strategy session, we take your case personally. We understand that a bribery charge—especially one involving White‑Collar Crimes in New Hampshire—isn’t just about money; it’s about your reputation, your career, and your freedom. That’s why our Rockingham criminal defense attorney team applies aggressive, yet precise tactics drawn from insider knowledge, leveraging every legal avenue to protect your rights.
What Constitutes Bribery in New Hampshire?
Under RSA 640:2, bribery in official or political matters is a Class B felony. The statute reads:
- Offering or giving a pecuniary benefit to influence the act or decision of a public servant, party official, or voter, like steering a vote or swaying an official decision.
- Soliciting or accepting such benefits, or failing to report offers one has received, also qualifies. Pecuniary benefits include money, property, or anything with economic value
In short, providing or receiving anything of value to improperly influence someone in public office is illegal, and it is aggressively prosecuted across Rockingham County.
How Our Firm Helps You
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we don’t offer generic solutions. Every bribery case involves different facts, evidence, and people. That’s why we take the time to understand what happened, what the state must prove, and how to build the strongest possible defense for you. Here’s what we offer:
- A tailored legal strategy: We analyze all evidence, including emails, text messages, financial records, and witness testimony.
- Experience from both sides: With a former prosecutor on our team, we understand how the state builds its case and how to challenge it.
- Focused white-collar defense: We’ve successfully handled a wide range of white-collar crimes, and we bring that depth of knowledge to every bribery case.
- Clear communication: We explain the legal process in straightforward terms, so you always know what to expect next.
Our approach isn’t about scare tactics or false promises. We focus on realistic goals, honest advice, and building a defense that works within the facts of your case.
Common Legal Defenses in Bribery Cases
Not every accusation leads to a conviction. Depending on the facts, several defenses may be available, including:
- Lack of intent: Bribery requires intentional conduct. If there’s no clear intent to influence a public decision, the charge may not stand.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you into committing an act you otherwise wouldn’t have done, we may argue entrapment.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. Incomplete or misinterpreted records can create reasonable doubt.
The earlier you involve a criminal defense attorney, the better the chances of identifying the right strategy.
Why Choose Us as Your Rockingham Criminal Defense Attorney?
When you work with our firm, you’re not hiring a legal team to “just show up” in court. You’re working with professionals who understand how bribery charges can impact your career, family, and standing in the community. We take each case seriously and treat you with the respect you deserve.
Whether you’re under investigation or have already been charged, our job is to protect your rights and help you navigate the system with as little disruption as possible. You’ll receive personalized attention, regular updates, and an honest assessment of your legal options.
White‑Collar Crimes & Bribery: Unique Challenges in New Hampshire
White‑Collar Crimes
Dealing with allegations such as fraud, embezzlement, or conspiracy requires specialized defense strategies, especially when tied to bribery. Prosecution often relies on complex documentation, alleged schemes, and intent. Our experience in both state and federal investigations allows us to dismantle these charges systematically.
Commercial Bribery
Under RSA 638:7, commercial bribery can be charged as a felony if the value exceeds set thresholds (Class A or B felony, depending on the benefit). If accused of bribing colleagues or partners in a business context, we’ll investigate whether the statute applies and challenge the value assessments or intent.
Falsification & Record Tampering
Bribery cases often involve manipulated evidence or false documentation. New Hampshire’s RSA 641 sections targeting falsification, tampering, or perjury may compound charges. We proactively analyze whether alleged false statements are protected, inadvertent, or legally disprovable, and we push back assertively.
Serving Rockingham County & Surrounding Areas
Our criminal defense team represents people facing bribery and related charges across Rockingham County, including:
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
Time matters. The sooner we begin reviewing evidence, addressing procedural hurdles, and planning your defense, the stronger your position. We don’t delay. Contact us now to set up a strategy session tailored to your situation.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we treat your case like it’s our own. If you’re charged or under investigation for Bribery or related White‑Collar Crimes in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, don’t wait. Contact us now to set up a strategy session. We’ll explore your options, challenge the charges, and fight for the outcome you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What penalties could I face for bribery under RSA 640:2?
Bribery in official and political matters is a Class B felony. Conviction may result in up to 7 years in prison, significant fines, and collateral consequences like loss of professional licenses.
How is 'pecuniary benefit' defined?
A pecuniary benefit is any economic gain—money, property, or anything with commercial value. It doesn’t include benefits available to the general public, such as tax breaks.
Can a business-related bribe be charged differently?
Yes. Under RSA 638:7, commercial bribery is separately defined and may be charged as a Class A or B felony, depending on the value of the benefit.
Will the charge include falsification or perjury?
If the bribery involved false documentation or statements, additional charges under RSA 641 (perjury, tampering, falsification) can be added. We challenge those aggressively.
Why should I choose your Rockingham criminal defense attorney team?
Our combination of aggressive defense and insider prosecutorial insight gives you a strategic edge — whether you’re negotiating a plea or heading to trial in Rockingham County courts.