Gloucester County Extortion Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Extortion in Gloucester County is a serious felony under New Jersey law, carrying severe penalties including significant prison time. If you are accused, you need an experienced extortion lawyer Gloucester County who understands the local courts. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense focused on protecting your rights and future. Contact us as early as possible for a case review.
Understanding Extortion Charges in New Jersey
Extortion, often referred to as blackmail, is a criminal offense defined under New Jersey statute N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-5. The law states that a person commits extortion if they purposely and unlawfully obtain property of another by threatening to inflict bodily injury, accuse anyone of a crime, expose any secret that would subject a person to hatred or impair their credit, take or withhold official action, or testify or provide information with intent to influence a legal proceeding.
Last verified: March 2026 | Gloucester County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, our firm brings a deep understanding of both sides of the criminal justice system to every case we handle.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey extortion statute (N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-5). For local court procedures and information, visit the Gloucester County Superior Court website.
Local Defense Strategy in Gloucester County
Building a defense against extortion charges requires a detailed, case-specific approach. An accusation does not equal guilt, and the prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defense strategies include challenging the credibility of the alleged threat, demonstrating a lack of intent to obtain property unlawfully, or showing that the communication was misunderstood.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm as early as possible after an accusation or arrest. We will review all known details of your case.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We conduct a thorough investigation, which may include reviewing communications, interviewing witnesses, and examining the context of the alleged threat.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or seek dismissal of charges if the prosecution’s case has legal flaws.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue every avenue, from negotiating for reduced or dismissed charges to providing a vigorous defense at trial if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Extortion in NJ
In Gloucester County, extortion is typically prosecuted as a second-degree crime, which carries a potential prison sentence of 5 to 10 years and fines of up to $150,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty obtaining employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling criminal cases. We approach each case with the understanding that your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. Our firm-wide record includes thousands of case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing serious felony charges. While every case is unique, our approach is consistently thorough and aggressive. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Extortion Defense Team
If you are under investigation or have been charged, time is critical. Our extortion charge defense lawyer Gloucester County team is ready to help. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Gloucester County, NJ
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our firm serves clients throughout the region, including in communities near Woodbury, Washington Township, and Glassboro.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between extortion and blackmail in New Jersey?
No practical difference in New Jersey law. The terms are often used interchangeably. The statute (N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-5) defines the single crime of extortion, which covers what is commonly called blackmail—using a threat to obtain property.
Can extortion charges be dropped?
It depends. Charges can be dropped if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, if key evidence is suppressed, or if a pre-trial diversion program is completed. An experienced blackmail defense lawyer Gloucester County can evaluate the weaknesses in the case against you to seek a dismissal.
Is extortion a federal crime?
Yes. Extortion can be prosecuted under federal law (the Hobbs Act) if it affects interstate commerce. Many cases are state-level, but federal charges are possible, especially in cases involving public officials or crossing state lines.
What should I do if I am accused of extortion?
1. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. 2. Do not discuss the case with anyone else. 3. Preserve all relevant evidence, including emails and texts. 4. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as early as possible to begin building your defense.
What are possible defenses to extortion?
Common defenses include lack of intent, that the statement was not a true threat, that the property was owed to you, entrapment, or mistaken identity. A lawyer will analyze the specific facts to determine the strongest defense strategy for your situation.
Related Content: For other criminal defense matters, see our pages on Gloucester County felony lawyer and Gloucester County white-collar crime lawyer. For an overview of our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your case.
Gloucester County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on extortion cases in Virginia explains each stage.
Your case in Gloucester County, New Jersey
Federal charges are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Newark, Trenton and Camden), not in county court; related state charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is Title 18 of the United States Code and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Gloucester County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Extortion Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Extortion Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Extortion Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.