Define: Kickback

Kickback
Kickback
Quick Summary of Kickback

A kickback occurs when an individual receives a portion of their payment, often due to coercion or a clandestine agreement. For instance, if a contractor gives 5% of their government contract earnings to a city official, that constitutes a kickback, which is essentially a covert payment. This unethical practice is also known as a payoff. On the other hand, a kicker refers to an additional fee or penalty tacked onto a loan, while a kickout clause is a provision in a contract that allows for its termination or modification under specific circumstances.

Full Definition Of Kickback

A kickback refers to the receipt of money that should not have been received, often due to secret agreements or coercion. It is similar to a bribe. For instance, a contractor gave 5% of the money received from a government contract to a city official, which exemplifies a kickback. On the other hand, a kicker is an additional charge or penalty imposed on a loan, alongside the interest. It can also involve a lender seeking equity participation as a condition for lending money. For instance, a lender may request a percentage of the profits or extra interest in addition to the loan amount, which serves as a kicker. Furthermore, a kickout clause is a provision in a contract that allows a party to terminate or modify the contract if a specific event occurs. For example, a company may refuse to sell land if they fail to complete the acquisition of a new headquarters, demonstrating the use of a kickout clause.

Kickback FAQ'S

A kickback refers to a form of bribery or illegal payment made to someone in exchange for favorable treatment or business opportunities.

Yes, kickbacks are illegal in most jurisdictions as they involve corrupt practices and undermine fair competition.

Engaging in kickback schemes can lead to severe legal consequences, including criminal charges, fines, imprisonment, and damage to one’s professional reputation.

Yes, individuals who accept kickbacks can be held liable for their involvement in the illegal activity. They may face criminal charges, fines, and potential imprisonment.

No, kickbacks are generally not allowed under any circumstances. However, there may be certain limited exceptions in specific industries or jurisdictions, but these are rare and heavily regulated.

If you have knowledge or evidence of a kickback scheme, you should report it to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, or your company’s internal compliance department.

Yes, companies can be held responsible for kickbacks committed by their employees if they were aware of or condoned the illegal activity. This can result in legal penalties, fines, and reputational damage.

If you suspect kickbacks are occurring in your workplace, it is important to gather any evidence you can discreetly and report your concerns to the appropriate channels, such as your supervisor, human resources, or an anonymous tip line if available.

Yes, you may have grounds to sue someone who offers you a kickback, especially if you have suffered financial or reputational harm as a result. Consult with a lawyer to understand your legal options.

To protect yourself and your business from kickback schemes, it is crucial to establish and enforce strong ethical policies, provide regular training on anti-corruption practices, and encourage a culture of transparency and reporting within your organisation.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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