Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Extortion under color of official right is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, the Hobbs Act, carrying up to 20 years in prison. If you are a public official in Augusta County or the Shenandoah Valley facing these charges, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Statute for Extortion Under Color Of Official Right
The federal crime of extortion under color of official right is defined in the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951. This statute prohibits actual or attempted robbery or extortion that affects interstate or foreign commerce. The “under color of official right” element specifically applies to public officials who use their office to obtain property not due to them or their office, with the victim’s consent induced by the official’s wrongful use of fear or under color of official right. This is a distinct form of public corruption prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice, often involving the FBI or other federal agencies.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on federal court procedures in the Western District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Augusta County, visit the official U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Court Process in Augusta County
Federal extortion cases for Augusta County residents are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, typically in the Harrisonburg, Roanoke, or Lynchburg divisions. The process begins with a federal grand jury indictment. The case then proceeds through arraignment, extensive discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Sentencing follows the U.S. Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which can mandate severe penalties.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty in federal court.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your criminal attorney will review all evidence, including FBI reports, financial records, and recordings.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The government may offer a plea deal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a federal jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, a separate sentencing hearing is held where the judge applies the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Federal Extortion
In federal court, a conviction for extortion under color of official right under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right (18 U.S.C. § 1951) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent loss of public office, loss of voting rights, professional license revocation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a team approach to complex federal criminal charges. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice who personally handles serious federal matters. For federal extortion and public corruption cases, our lead attorney is Matthew Greene, whose 30+ years of experience includes handling high-stakes federal litigation. Mr. Greene’s background provides a critical perspective for building a strong defense against federal prosecutors.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results for extortion under color of official right in Augusta County are not publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of federal cases, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex federal matters. We approach each case with a detailed strategy aimed at challenging the government’s evidence and protecting our clients’ rights and futures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Near Augusta County, VA
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing federal charges in Augusta County and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. We are accessible to residents of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. If you need a federal criminal defense lawyer near Augusta County, contact us for a confidential consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Extortion Under Color Of Official Right in Virginia
What is “extortion under color of official right”?
It is a federal crime where a public official uses their government position to obtain money or property through coercion or fear, or by exploiting the power of their office, violating the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
Do I need a criminal court lawyer for federal charges?
Yes, absolutely. Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys with vast resources. The procedures, rules of evidence, and sentencing guidelines are vastly different from state court. A criminal court lawyer with federal experience is essential to handle this complex system and protect your rights.
What are the possible defenses to these charges?
Potential defenses include lack of intent, entrapment, challenging the “affecting commerce” element of the Hobbs Act, proving the payment was a lawful gift or campaign contribution, and moving to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights. A skilled criminal charges defense attorney will analyze the specific facts to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Can I be charged in both state and federal court for the same act?
Yes. Under the dual sovereignty doctrine, the state of Virginia and the federal government can both prosecute you for the same underlying conduct if it violates laws of both jurisdictions, though this is less common in pure public corruption cases.
What should I do if I am under federal investigation?
Immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Do not speak to FBI agents or other investigators without an attorney present. Your lawyer can communicate on your behalf, help you understand the process, and work to protect you from the earliest stages of the investigation, which is often the most critical time in a federal case.
Internal Resources
If you are facing federal charges, learn more about our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense practice. For related charges in the area, see our pages for Albemarle County Federal Criminal Lawyer and Augusta County Business Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures are complex and subject to change. The information on this page is for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for case-specific guidance regarding extortion under color of official right charges.
Augusta County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on extortion under color of official right cases in Virginia explains each stage.