Kickbacks Lawyer in Madison County, NY — Defending Against Illegal Payment Charges
A kickback is an illegal payment made to secure an improper advantage, often prosecuted as bribery, commercial bribery, or fraud in Madison County. Under New York Penal Law (PEN), these charges can be misdemeanors or felonies with severe penalties. If you are accused of a kickback scheme, securing a skilled kickbacks lawyer in Madison County is critical.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
In New York, kickback allegations are typically prosecuted under statutes like Penal Law § 180.00 (Commercial Bribing) or § 200.00 (Bribing a Public Servant). The specific charge depends on whether the payment involved a public official, a private employee, or a commercial transaction. The prosecution must prove a corrupt intent—that the payment was made to influence an action in violation of a legal duty. Defending against these charges requires a detailed understanding of both the law and the underlying business or government context.
Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has a background in accounting and information systems that provides a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial records and communications central to kickback cases. We use this experience to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and benefit.
Official New York Statutes and Court Resources
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: We review all allegations, communications, and financial documents to build your defense strategy.
- Investigation & Evidence Challenge: Our team scrutinizes the prosecution’s evidence, looking for lack of corrupt intent, entrapment, or insufficient proof of a quid pro quo.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges based on legal insufficiency.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue case dismissal, charge reduction, or alternative resolutions. If necessary, we provide an aggressive defense at trial.
In Madison County, a kickback conviction can range from a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail) for commercial bribing to a Class B felony (5-25 years prison) for bribing a public servant, plus fines and restitution.
| Offense | Classification (NY Penal Law) | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Bribing (§ 180.00) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Civil lawsuits, professional license loss |
| Bribing a Public Servant (§ 200.00) | Class B Felony | 5-25 years | Up to $5,000 or double the gain | Permanent felony record, disqualification from public contracts |
| Scheme to Defraud (Related Charge) | Class E Felony to Class B Felony | 1-25 years | Varies | Restitution, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of defending clients against serious financial charges. In Madison County, our approach combines Mr. Sris’s prosecutorial insight with a meticulous review of financial evidence to protect our clients’ rights and futures.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients at Madison County courts. We represent clients in Wampsville, Oneida, Canastota, Cazenovia, Hamilton, Chittenango, Morrisville, Earlville, and Brookfield. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kickbacks Defense in Madison County
What exactly is a kickback under New York law?
Yes. A kickback is an undisclosed payment, often a bribe, given to someone to secure an improper advantage, such as preferential treatment in awarding a contract. It is illegal under statutes like Penal Law § 180.00 (Commercial Bribing).
Can I go to jail for a kickback scheme in Madison County?
It depends on the charge. Commercial bribery is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail. Bribing a public servant is a felony with a potential 5-25 year prison sentence. The specific penalties depend on the facts and your criminal history.
What should I do if I’m being investigated for illegal payments?
Immediately contact a kickback scheme defense lawyer in Madison County. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. A lawyer can advise you of your rights, manage communications, and work to prevent formal charges.
What are common defenses against kickback charges?
Defenses include lack of corrupt intent (the payment was a legitimate gift or commission), entrapment, insufficient evidence of a quid pro quo agreement, or that the alleged benefit was not actually influenced by the payment.
Why should I hire a lawyer experienced with financial crimes?
An illegal payment charge lawyer in Madison County with financial experience can effectively analyze complex records, challenge forensic accounting, and present a defense that addresses both the legal and factual nuances of your case.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on New York Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in New York County, and Business Law in Madison County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.