Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ
Extortion under color of official right is a federal Hobbs Act violation (18 U.S.C. § 1951) prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. This charge involves a public official using their position to obtain property not due to them. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals in Somerset County facing these serious allegations.
Federal Statute: Extortion Under Color of Official Right
The federal crime of extortion under color of official right is defined under 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 targets public corruption, where an individual, by virtue of their public office, wrongfully obtains property from another with that person’s consent, induced by the official’s wrongful use of their office.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built a practice focused on complex federal defense. The charge is distinct from bribery but often arises in similar public corruption investigations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Hobbs Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defending Federal Extortion Charges in New Jersey
Federal extortion charges in Somerset County are typically investigated by the FBI, IRS, or other federal agencies and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. A key local procedural fact is that these cases often involve complex discovery, including wiretaps, financial records, and undercover operations. The defense must challenge the government’s proof of both the “color of official right” and the effect on interstate commerce.
- Initial Investigation & Grand Jury: A federal grand jury in Newark or Camden will issue an indictment based on evidence presented by prosecutors.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: The defendant appears in U.S. District Court, enters a plea, and a judge determines if they will be released pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If not, the case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the value of the extortion and the defendant’s role.
Potential Penalties for Hobbs Act Extortion
In Somerset County, a federal 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, restitution, supervised release. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Court
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal matters. We understand the high stakes of federal public corruption cases and the strategies needed to defend against them. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Case Results & Firm History
SRIS actively practices in federal courts. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, particularly focusing on the jurisdictional element of interstate commerce and the specific intent required for an extortion charge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Federal Defense in Somerset County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 763-1924
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Somerset County. We represent individuals in communities like Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, and Hillsborough. Federal extortion under color of official right defense is available 24/7 by phone. We are a federal criminal defense lawyer near Somerset County ready to consult.
Federal Extortion Defense FAQs
What is “extortion under color of official right”?
It is a federal Hobbs Act crime where a public official uses their office to obtain property through coercion or fear. It is a specific type of public corruption distinct from bribery, as the property is obtained under the guise of official authority.
What is the difference between this and a state extortion charge?
State extortion charges, like blackmail, are prosecuted under New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-5) in Superior Court. Federal extortion under color of official right requires proof of a public official’s involvement and an effect on interstate commerce, and is prosecuted in U.S. District Court by federal prosecutors.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment, challenging the effect on interstate commerce, and arguing that the payments were lawful gifts or campaign contributions. A skilled extortion charge defense lawyer Somerset County will analyze all evidence to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Can I be charged with both bribery and extortion?
Yes. The same conduct can sometimes give rise to multiple charges, including bribery (18 U.S.C. § 201) and Hobbs Act extortion. The government often pursues multiple charges to increase pressure for a plea agreement.
What should I do if I’m under federal investigation?
Immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. An attorney can negotiate your voluntary appearance, guide you through a grand jury subpoena, and work to prevent an indictment.
How does federal sentencing work for this crime?
Sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which calculate a range based on the value of the extortion and the defendant’s role. Judges have discretion but must consider the guidelines, and there is no parole in the federal system.
For a New Jersey criminal defense lawyer, see our state hub. For related local defense, consider a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Hunterdon County or a Business Lawyer in Somerset County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.