In the latest installment of the “Lawyer Online” column, Yuriy Radzievsky, an attorney and partner at Barristers LLP, discusses some unexpected aspects of corruption cases. Many people believe that only government officials come under the scrutiny of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), but this is not the case.

What’s important to know?

Article 369 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine provides for criminal liability for offering or providing an unlawful benefit. The penalty is up to 10 years of imprisonment with confiscation of property.
Auditors, notaries, and businesspeople can become participants in corruption schemes if they act as organizers, accomplices, or instigators.
NABU is actively working on cases where the bribe-givers are representatives of the private sector.

Why is this important?

If you are engaged in business or professional activities, it is important to be aware of the risks of involvement in corruption offenses. NABU has a wide range of tools to investigate such cases, and a “request” or “thank-you” that seems innocent at first glance can become grounds for criminal prosecution.

Watch the video for more details!