Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Fredericksburg, VA
Extortion under color of official right is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act), prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction carries up to 20 years in federal prison. If you are under investigation or charged in Fredericksburg, you need an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal statutes current as of 2026-04 | Eastern District of Virginia
Federal Extortion Under Color of Official Right Law
Extortion under color of official right is a specific type of public corruption defined in the Hobbs Act. It involves a public official using their actual or purported office to obtain property not due to them or their office, with the victim’s consent induced by the official’s wrongful use of fear or under color of official right. The key is the official’s exploitation of their position for personal gain. This charge is distinct from bribery, as it focuses on the official’s coercive extraction rather than a mutual exchange.
The statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1951. The federal government, typically through the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutes these cases. Investigations are often led by the FBI. You can review the official statute at the U.S. Code (18 U.S.C. § 1951). For local federal court procedures, refer to the Eastern District of Virginia court website.
- Initial federal investigation by FBI or other agency, often involving subpoenas, interviews, or surveillance.
- Presentation of evidence to a federal grand jury, which may issue an indictment.
- Arraignment and initial appearance in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Extensive discovery phase, reviewing all government evidence.
- Filing pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or the indictment’s sufficiency.
- Negotiating with prosecutors or preparing for a federal jury trial.
Penalties for Federal Extortion
In federal court, a conviction for extortion under color of official right under the Hobbs Act carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent loss of public office, felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Experience for Fredericksburg Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm handles complex federal criminal matters, including extortion and public corruption charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally leads on complex federal defense cases. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial evidence. The firm’s approach is collaborative, ensuring each case benefits from multiple perspectives.
Case Results & Defense Strategy
Our defense strategy in federal extortion cases begins with a meticulous review of all discovery to challenge the government’s evidence. We examine whether the alleged conduct truly meets the legal definition of extortion under color of official right or if it constitutes a lesser offense. We also scrutinize the investigation for any procedural violations or entrapment. In one federal case, attorney Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, assisted in achieving a favorable outcome in a complex multi-defendant matter.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing federal charges in Fredericksburg and the Eastern District of Virginia. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 1. If you need a federal extortion charge defense lawyer Fredericksburg or a blackmail defense lawyer Fredericksburg, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. We serve the Fredericksburg community and surrounding areas. Meetings are by appointment only.
Federal Extortion Defense FAQs
What is “under color of official right”?
It means the extortion was committed by a public official exploiting the real or perceived power of their office to obtain property. The victim complies due to fear of the official’s wrongful use of their governmental authority.
Is this a state or federal crime?
Extortion under color of official right is typically a federal crime prosecuted under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951). It is handled in U.S. District Court, not Virginia state courts.
What is the main defense to this charge?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent to extort, that the property was a lawful payment, that the defendant lacked the requisite official authority, or that the investigation violated the defendant’s constitutional rights. Each case requires a detailed analysis of the facts and evidence.
Can I get a plea bargain in a federal extortion case?
Yes, plea negotiations are common in federal cases. The potential for a bargain depends on the strength of the government’s evidence, the defendant’s cooperation, and the specific facts. An experienced lawyer is essential for these negotiations.
What should I do if I’m under federal investigation?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer can communicate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, advise you on your rights, and potentially intervene before charges are filed.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related charges like business fraud in Fredericksburg. If you are in a nearby area, our Alexandria federal criminal lawyer can also help.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.