Camden County Extortion Under Color of Official Right Defense Lawyer
Extortion under color of official right is a serious federal offense prosecuted under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, which can result in up to 20 years in federal prison. If you are a public official or employee in Camden County accused of this crime, you need an experienced defense lawyer immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Extortion Under Color of Official Right?
Extortion under color of official right is a specific type of public corruption defined in federal law. It occurs when a public official wrongfully obtains property from another person, with that person’s consent, induced by the official’s wrongful use of their actual or purported office. The core of the offense is the misuse of public authority for personal gain, even if the victim consents to the payment. This charge is distinct from bribery, as it focuses on the official’s exploitation of their position rather than a quid pro quo agreement.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | Camden Vicinage Court Website
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex federal and state criminal matters, including public corruption cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act) on the Legal Information Institute’s .gov resource. For local court procedures, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Camden Vicinage website.
Defending Against Extortion Under Color of Official Right Charges in Camden County
Federal prosecutors in the District of New Jersey, which includes Camden County, aggressively pursue public corruption cases. A conviction can destroy your career, reputation, and freedom. An effective defense requires a lawyer who understands both the complex federal statutes and the local prosecutorial field.
- Immediate Legal Consultation: Contact a defense attorney the moment you become aware of an investigation. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your lawyer will conduct a parallel investigation, subpoena records, and analyze all government evidence for weaknesses.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiations: An attorney may negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to avoid charges or seek a favorable pre-trial resolution.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds, building a defense that may challenge the “under color of official right” element or the defendant’s intent.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If convicted, presenting mitigating factors to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Extortion Under Color of Official Right
In Camden County, a federal conviction for extortion under color of official right under the Hobbs Act 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) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent loss of public office/employment, loss of pension, professional license revocation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a formidable combination of experience to federal criminal defense. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands government tactics from the inside. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We approach every extortion under color of official right case with a detailed, aggressive strategy case-specific to the federal system and the Camden County jurisdiction.
Case Results & Defense Experience
While specific results for extortion under color of official right in Camden County are not publicly verifiable, our firm’s extensive criminal defense experience forms the foundation of our approach. We have successfully defended clients against serious federal and state charges, achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea resolutions. For example, our attorneys have secured dismissals in complex misdemeanor sex abuse cases in D.C. Superior Court and favorable probationary outcomes in sensitive child pornography cases in Maryland.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer Near Camden County
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges at the Camden Vicinage courts. We represent individuals in Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, and surrounding communities.
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between extortion under color of official right and bribery?
It depends on the transaction’s nature. Bribery involves a quid pro quo: a payment is made to influence an official’s future action. Extortion under color of official right involves an official using their office’s power to obtain property, where the victim’s consent is induced by the official’s wrongful use of authority, not necessarily a specific promise of action.
Can I be charged if the person paying me consented to the payment?
Yes. Consent is not a defense to extortion under color of official right. The law focuses on the official’s wrongful use of their office to induce the payment, even if the payer agreed. This makes consulting a blackmail defense lawyer Camden County crucial, as the legal issues are nuanced.
What should I do if I am contacted by the FBI about a corruption investigation?
Do not answer any questions. Politely state you wish to speak with an attorney and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf to understand the scope of the inquiry and protect your rights from the outset.
Is this charge always handled in federal court?
While the Hobbs Act is a federal statute commonly used for these cases, New Jersey state law also criminalizes official misconduct and related offenses (N.J.S.A. 2C:30-2). You could face parallel or separate state charges. A lawyer experienced in both federal and New Jersey courts is essential for full defense.
What are the key defenses to this charge?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to commit extortion, that the payments were lawful gifts or campaign contributions, that the official acted within their lawful authority, or challenging the sufficiency of evidence that the property was obtained “under color of official right.” Each case requires a unique strategy developed by your extortion under color of official right lawyer Camden County.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Burlington County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Camden County federal criminal defense page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding extortion under color of official right charges.