Augusta County Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer — Federal Defense
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. If you are a public official or employee in Augusta County facing these charges, you need a defense lawyer who understands federal court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has experience with federal criminal defense.
Federal Statute: 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, 18 U.S.C. § 1951. The statute prohibits obtaining property from another, with their consent, induced under color of official right. This means the property is obtained through the wrongful use of actual or threatened force, violence, or fear, or under color of official right. The offense is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court for the Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1951
Official Government Resources
For the official text of the Hobbs Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 on the Legal Information Institute. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Defending Against Federal Extortion Charges in Augusta County
Federal extortion charges are investigated by agencies like the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The defense must challenge the government’s proof of a quid pro quo—an explicit or implicit agreement to perform an official act in exchange for the payment. A strong defense often involves attacking the element of consent or proving the payments were lawful gifts or campaign contributions, not bribes. The case will proceed in the federal system, which has distinct rules and typically harsher penalties than state court.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: After you become aware of a federal investigation, contact a defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak with investigators without counsel.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: The U.S. Attorney will present evidence to a grand jury. If indicted, you will be formally charged.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a federal magistrate judge, enter a plea, and arguments will be made regarding your release or detention pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer will review all evidence and file motions to challenge the indictment or suppress evidence.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in U.S. District Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are advisory but carry significant weight.
Potential Penalties for Federal Extortion
In the federal system, extortion under color of official right under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 is punishable by up to 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) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of property, permanent loss of public office, loss of professional licenses, felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases like extortion under color of official right. We understand the high stakes and the intense scrutiny that comes with federal public corruption investigations.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. While specific results for extortion under color of official right in Augusta County are not listed here, our approach is built on thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. For example, our team has successfully defended clients in federal courts on serious charges. Matthew Greene, a key attorney on our federal defense team, brings 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 high-stakes litigation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Federal Defense for Augusta County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing federal charges in Augusta County. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We provide representation for residents of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. As your extortion under color of official right lawyer near Augusta County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
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 wrongfully obtains property through the misuse of their office, prosecuted under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
What is the difference between extortion and bribery?
Extortion under color of official right involves a public official demanding payment, while bribery typically involves a citizen offering payment to influence an official act. Both are serious federal crimes, but the legal elements and defense strategies differ.
Can I be charged in state court instead of federal court?
It depends. While Virginia has its own bribery and corruption laws, extortion under color of official right is primarily a federal offense investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, especially when it affects interstate commerce.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the FBI about this?
Do not answer questions. Politely state you wish to speak with your lawyer and immediately contact a federal criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
What are the possible defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, absence of a quid pro quo, entrapment, or that the payment was a lawful gift or campaign contribution. An extortion charge defense lawyer Augusta County can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
Is this the same as blackmail?
Not exactly. Blackmail is generally a threat to reveal information unless paid. Extortion under color of official right specifically involves a public official exploiting their position. A blackmail defense lawyer Augusta County would handle different statutory violations.
Internal Resources: For more on federal defense, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub. For related local defense, consider a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Augusta County or a DUI Lawyer in Augusta County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding an extortion under color of official right charge.