Extortion Under Color Of Official Right Lawyer in Shenandoah County, Virginia
Extortion under color of official right is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, the Hobbs Act, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. If you are under investigation or charged in Shenandoah County, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for federal charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 obtaining 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. The crime is a felony with severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Federal Defense Strategy in Shenandoah County
Federal extortion cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, often following an FBI investigation. The defense must challenge the government’s proof of a quid pro quo—that a payment was made in exchange for a specific official act. In the Western District of Virginia, which includes Shenandoah County, these cases are complex. A strong defense examines the evidence, the official’s authority, and whether the alleged payment was a lawful campaign contribution or gift.
- Initial Investigation: The FBI or another federal agency conducts an investigation, which may include subpoenas, interviews, and surveillance.
- Grand Jury: The U.S. Attorney presents evidence to a federal grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Arraignment: The defendant appears in U.S. District Court, is informed of the charges, and enters a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: The defense reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a federal jury trial or is resolved through plea negotiations.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often severe for public corruption.
Potential Penalties for Federal Extortion
In the federal system, extortion under color of official right carries a maximum penalty of 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) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent loss of public office, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of federal investigative tactics and courtroom procedures.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of handling serious federal charges. While specific results for extortion under color of official right in Shenandoah County are not listed, our team, including secondary attorney Matthew Greene, has extensive experience defending against federal public corruption and fraud allegations. Matthew Greene brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Shenandoah County Federal Defense Lawyer
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients in Shenandoah County and is accessible via I-81. We are a federal criminal defense lawyer near Shenandoah County Courthouse in Woodstock.
Communities Served: Woodstock, Edinburg, Strasburg, Mount Jackson, Toms Brook, New Market.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Federal Extortion Defense FAQs
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).
Who investigates these charges in Virginia?
The FBI is the primary investigative agency for federal public corruption, including extortion under color of official right. The case is then prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia.
What are the possible defenses?
Defenses may include lack of intent, absence of a quid pro quo, entrapment, or that the payment was a lawful campaign contribution or gift. A skilled criminal attorney will analyze the evidence to build the strongest defense.
Do I need a federal criminal court lawyer for this charge?
Yes. This is a serious federal felony with complex procedures. You need a defense lawyer with specific experience in federal court and public corruption cases to protect your rights.
Can I face state charges as well?
It depends. While this is primarily a federal crime, related conduct like bribery or misconduct in office could lead to separate state criminal charges under Virginia law.
What should I do if I am contacted by the FBI?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal charges defense lawyer. Do not speak to agents without legal counsel present, as anything you say can be used against you.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal allegations, see our pages for Federal Criminal Lawyer Shenandoah County and Business Lawyer Shenandoah County. For state-level criminal defense, visit our Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding extortion under color of official right in Shenandoah Virginia.