Lawyer for Anti-Corruption Law
Corruption criminal cases are among the most sensitive areas of criminal law. Even an initial suspicion can have significant personal and professional consequences for business owners, executives, and public officials – including disciplinary implications – regardless of whether the allegations are ultimately confirmed. Attorney Mag. Markus Weisser has the expertise to protect your rights early, minimize risks, and ensure the most effective defense strategy.
Anti-Corruption Law – Complex and Consequential
Corruption offenses, such as abuse of office, bribery, or acceptance of undue advantages, often exist at the intersection of business practices, political processes, and criminal law. In the day-to-day operations of companies or public authorities, boundaries are not always clearly defined—a simple invitation, sponsorship, or partnership can quickly attract the attention of criminal investigators.
Effective Defense in Corruption Cases
Criminal proceedings in anti-corruption law are often extremely complex, similar to white-collar crime cases. Rapid and strategically considered action is crucial. We analyze the situation, review the evidence, and develop an effective defense strategy with you—discreetly, proactively, and purposefully.
Prevent Compliance Violations – Identify Risks
Corruption risks often only become apparent after the fact. We also support companies proactively by establishing or reviewing compliance structures and training executives on how to handle potential risk situations safely.
Our focus in criminal law relating to corruption
Attorney Markus Weisser frequently defends individuals and companies in the following areas:
- Abuse of official authority (Section 302 StGB)
- Bribery (Section 304 StGB)
- Bribery (Section 307 StGB)
- Granting of benefits (Section 307a StGB)
- Granting of benefits to influence (Section 307a StGB)
- Granting of benefits to influence (Section 307b StGB)
- Prohibited intervention (Section 308 StGB)
- False certification or authentication in office (Section 311 StGB)
Your concerns are important to us!
Lawyer Markus Weisser will personally take time for you.
FAQ
When should I consult a lawyer specializing in anti-corruption law?
As soon as investigations are underway, a house search is taking place, or even if initial rumors about allegations arise, you should seek legal assistance immediately. The earlier we am involved, the better the course can be set – for the defense, communication with authorities, and internal damage control. Furthermore, many risks can be avoided through clear compliance structures, internal guidelines, training for employees, and early legal review of sponsorship, gifts, or business models. We also provide preventive support in the form of compliance checks or internal investigations.
What counts as an “improper advantage”?
An advantage is any benefit to which a public official or employee of a public body has no legal claim – such as money, gifts, perks, invitations, or promises of professional advantages. Whether the benefit actually influenced the official’ is not decisive—often, the potential influence is sufficient.
What are the penalties for corruption offences?
In the event of a conviction, the defendant faces a fine or imprisonment, or companies face a fine. The severity of the penalty depends on the circumstances of the individual case (in particular the amount of damage caused). The Austrian Criminal Code provides for a maximum penalty of one to ten years’ imprisonment for serious property offenses.
In addition to the general loss of reputation, convicted persons are also frequently confronted with claims for damages from victims. It should be noted that a conviction by a criminal court is binding and therefore has a major influence on any subsequent civil proceedings.
Another possible consequence of a criminal conviction is that an entrepreneur may have their business license revoked or that companies that have been convicted may be excluded from tenders in public procurement procedures.
In addition, individuals who have been sentenced to more than six months’ imprisonment for a financial offense are automatically disqualified from serving as a managing director or board member for three years.
Do you need help with criminal law relating to corruption?
We are happy to provide you with strategic and discreet defense.