An agent-principal relationship is where one person (the agent) does work on behalf of another person (the principal).
These relationships are based on mutual trust and confidence and there should not be any conflicting interests between the two persons.
Accordingly, it is against the law for an agent to receive or solicit any inducements or rewards as an incentive to do, or refrain from doing something in relation to the affairs or business of the principal.
An agent may also face charges under this section where they are given a reward or bribe to encourage them to “favour or disfavour” another person in relation to the principal’s affairs or business.
If found guilty, the agent may be gaoled for up to 7 years.
You can also be charged under this section if you are the person offering the bribe or reward.
In these cases, the maximum penalty is also 7 years imprisonment.
However, while these penalties may seem lengthy, it is important to remember that they are maximum penalties only.
Our highly experienced lawyers can help cast doubt on the prosecution case by raising any defences and evidence that supports your case in order to avoid these harsh penalties.