Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Lawyer in Albemarle County, Virginia
Extortion under color of official right is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, the Hobbs Act, carrying up to 20 years in prison. In Albemarle County, such cases are typically investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia. 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 defined in the federal Hobbs Act. The statute prohibits the obtaining of property from another, with their consent, induced by wrongful use of actual or threatened force, violence, or fear, or under color of official right. This means a public official uses their position of authority to obtain payments or property they are not entitled to receive.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a background in handling complex federal matters. The firm’s approach is informed by an understanding of both prosecution strategies and defense rights.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures in the Western District of Virginia, visit the official U.S. District Court website.
Local Federal Procedure in Albemarle County
Federal extortion under color of official right cases in Albemarle County fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, Charlottesville Division. These investigations are often lengthy, involving federal grand juries, and require a defense strategy that addresses complex evidence like financial records and communications. A key local procedural fact is that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia, based in Roanoke, handles these prosecutions, and cases may be filed in either the Roanoke or Charlottesville courthouses.
- Initial Investigation: The FBI or another federal agency conducts a covert investigation, which may include subpoenas, interviews, and surveillance.
- Grand Jury Indictment: A federal grand jury reviews evidence and issues an indictment, which formally initiates the criminal case.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: The defendant appears in U.S. District Court, enters a plea, and the court determines if they will be released pending trial.
- Discovery & Motions: The defense reviews all government evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or the legal sufficiency of the charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The case may be resolved through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are typically stricter than state penalties.
Potential Penalties for Federal Extortion
In the federal system, extortion under color of official right under the Hobbs Act is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, significant fines, and mandatory restitution.
| 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 assets, restitution, permanent felony record, loss of public office/employment, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors like Mr. Sris, who bring firsthand knowledge of government tactics to the defense table. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and the importance of a meticulously prepared defense strategy from the earliest stages of an investigation.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific local results for this federal charge are not publicly listed, our defense team, including secondary attorney Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing rigorous case analysis.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Albemarle County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Albemarle County and the Charlottesville area, including Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 29.
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) 294-0910
Available for 24/7 phone consultations. 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 not lawfully due to them. It is prosecuted under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
Do I need a criminal attorney for a federal extortion charge?
Yes. Federal charges are exceptionally serious, with complex procedures and severe penalties. A criminal court lawyer with federal experience is essential to handle grand juries, evidentiary rules, and sentencing guidelines effectively.
What agency investigates these charges in Albemarle County?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is typically the lead agency for investigating extortion under color of official right, often working with other agencies like the IRS or the Virginia State Police.
What are the possible defenses to this charge?
Potential defenses can include lack of intent, entrapment, challenging the “under color of official right” element, or moving to suppress illegally obtained evidence. A defense lawyer will analyze the specific facts to build the strongest strategy.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal extortion case?
It depends. The U.S. Attorney’s Office may offer a plea agreement, but terms vary based on evidence strength, the defendant’s cooperation, and other factors. An experienced criminal charges defense attorney is critical to negotiate effectively.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing federal charges, it is important to understand all your options. You may also want to learn about federal criminal defense in Virginia. For other legal issues in Albemarle County, consider a criminal defense lawyer in Albemarle or a business lawyer in Albemarle County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.