Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Lawyer in Loudoun 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 or employee in Loudoun County facing these charges, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Statute for Extortion Under Color of Official Right
Extortion under color of official right is a specific type of public corruption prosecuted under the federal Hobbs Act. The law prohibits public officials from using their office to obtain property not due to them or their office through wrongful use of fear or under color of official right. The key element is the official’s inducement of payment in exchange for an official act or a promise to act or refrain from acting. This is a distinct charge from bribery, focusing on the official’s coercive extraction of property.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Official Government Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act). For information on the federal court handling these cases in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending Against Federal Extortion Charges in Loudoun County
Federal investigations for extortion under color of official right in Loudoun County are typically conducted by the FBI. The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction carries severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment, fines, and permanent loss of public office and pension benefits. The defense strategy is critical from the first contact with investigators.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to FBI agents or other investigators without your criminal defense lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your defense lawyer will conduct a parallel investigation, reviewing all evidence, communications, and the context of the alleged acts to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly or to challenge the legal sufficiency of the indictment.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on the potential for a negotiated plea or prepare a vigorous trial defense, arguing that your actions were within lawful authority or lacked the required corrupt intent.
Potential Penalties for Federal Extortion
In federal court, a conviction for extortion under color of official right under the Hobbs Act carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in 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) | Forfeiture of property, permanent loss of public office, disqualification from future office, loss of pension. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our approach in federal court is built on meticulous preparation and understanding the strategies of federal prosecutors.
For federal extortion cases, our team includes Matthew Greene, an attorney with over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into complex investigative procedures.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our focused defense strategies aim for the best possible result. We provide full representation from the investigative stage through trial or negotiation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Federal Defense for Loudoun County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Ashburn Location — 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only.
Our Ashburn location serves clients throughout Loudoun County, including Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, and Purcellville, who are facing federal charges. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only at our office, which is accessible for clients involved in federal proceedings that may be heard in Alexandria or other federal courthouses.
FAQs: Extortion Under Color of Official Right Defense
What is “extortion under color of official right”?
It is a federal crime where a public official uses their office to obtain property through coercion or fear, or by virtue of their office, without a claim of right to the property. It is prosecuted under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
Do I need a criminal attorney if I’m under federal investigation?
Yes, immediately. Federal investigations are complex and begin long before an arrest. A criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights during interviews, handle grand jury subpoenas, and work to prevent charges from being filed.
What is the main difference between this and bribery?
Bribery involves a two-way exchange where a payer offers something of value to influence an official act. Extortion under color of official right focuses on the official’s wrongful demand or acceptance, often characterized by coercion or exploitation of office, regardless of the payer’s intent.
What court hears these cases for Loudoun County?
Federal charges are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The Alexandria or Richmond divisions would typically handle cases involving Loudoun County public officials.
What are the possible defenses?
Defenses may include lack of corrupt intent, that the payment was a lawful gift or campaign contribution, that the official had a claim of right to the property, or that the official’s actions were within lawful authority. Entrapment may also be a defense in some circumstances.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other federal charges, you may need a federal criminal lawyer in Loudoun County. For state-level criminal matters, see our page for a criminal defense lawyer in Loudoun, VA. Learn more about our firm’s approach on our Virginia federal criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Federal statutes and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance regarding extortion under color of official right charges.