Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Defense in Chesterfield, VA
Extortion under color of official right, a federal Hobbs Act violation under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, is a serious felony prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are a public official or employee in Chesterfield County 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 Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, criminalizes extortion affecting interstate or foreign commerce. “Extortion under color of official right” is defined as the obtaining of property from another, with the other person’s consent, induced under color of official right. This typically involves a public official using their real or purported power to demand payments or property to which they are not entitled. The statute requires proof that the official obtained a payment to which they were not entitled and that they did so knowing it was wrongful. The property obtained must have at least a de minimis effect on interstate commerce for federal jurisdiction to apply. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, has attorneys familiar with the nuances of federal public corruption statutes.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act). For local federal court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (FBI, IRS, etc.) may conduct surveillance, interviews, and review financial records.
- Grand Jury: A federal grand jury in the Eastern District reviews evidence and issues an indictment if probable cause is found.
- Arraignment: You appear before a federal magistrate judge, are formally charged, and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense lawyer reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The case may resolve through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which can be severe.
In federal court, extortion under color of official right is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial 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) | Forfeiture of property, permanent loss of public office, loss of pension benefits, professional license revocation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Federal Charges
Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal courtrooms. Defending against extortion under color of official right charges requires challenging the element of “inducement” and the connection to interstate commerce. We analyze whether the payment was a legitimate gift, a campaign contribution, or a lawful fee for service. We also scrutinize the investigation for procedural errors or violations of your constitutional rights. A strong defense is built on a detailed understanding of both federal law and the specific facts of your position and actions.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results for this charge in Chesterfield are not publicly listed, our firm’s approach is collaborative. For federal matters, Mr. Sris often works alongside Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into government procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Chesterfield County. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 977-0097
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
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 they are not entitled to receive, under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
Do I need a criminal attorney for this charge?
Yes, absolutely. This is a serious federal felony with potential for decades in prison. You need a defense lawyer experienced in federal court procedure and public corruption law to protect your rights and build a defense.
What court handles these charges in Chesterfield?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Cases are heard in the federal courthouse in Richmond, part of the Eastern District, not in Chesterfield County state courts.
What are the possible defenses?
Defenses may include lack of intent, that the payment was lawful (e.g., a campaign contribution), absence of inducement, or that the alleged act did not affect interstate commerce. A criminal court lawyer will identify the best strategy based on the evidence.
Can I face state criminal charges too?
It depends. Yes, the same conduct may violate Virginia bribery or misconduct in office statutes (e.g., Va. Code § 18.2-447). You could face parallel state and federal prosecutions, making experienced counsel for your criminal charges defense essential.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. If you are in a nearby area, our Henrico County federal criminal lawyer can also assist. For other legal needs in Chesterfield, consider a Chesterfield County business lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
Chesterfield County is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on extortion under color of official right lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.