Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Warren County, NY
Extortion under color of official right is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 155.05(2)(e), involving a public official using their position to obtain property. In Warren County, this charge is prosecuted in the Supreme Court Criminal Term. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these complex cases, leveraging our experience with public corruption and official misconduct statutes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Warren County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Extortion under color of official right, often called “official extortion,” is a specific type of larceny defined in New York Penal Law. It occurs when a public servant, such as a government employee, police officer, or elected official, uses their actual or purported authority to compel another person to deliver property. The key element is the abuse of an official position for personal gain. This differs from simple extortion (coercion) because the perpetrator’s status as a public official is central to the crime. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the intricate interplay between criminal law and public office.
Official New York Law & Court Resources
The charge is governed by New York Penal Law § 155.05(2)(e) (official extortion statute). Prosecutions for this felony in Warren County are handled by the Warren County Supreme Court Criminal Term.
When facing an extortion under color of official right charge in Warren County, the process is intensive. The case begins at the Supreme Court level due to its felony classification. Prosecutors from the District Attorney’s office will scrutinize your official duties and communications. A strong defense requires dissecting the alleged misuse of authority and separating lawful official action from criminal intent.
- Secure immediate legal representation before any interview with investigators.
- Your attorney will file motions in Warren County Supreme Court to review the evidence and challenge the probable cause for the charge.
- A pre-trial conference will be scheduled to discuss potential resolutions or set a trial date.
- If the case proceeds, your defense will focus on challenging the element of “intent to deprive” and the misuse of official power.
Penalties for Extortion Under Color of Official Right in Warren County
In Warren County, extortion under color of official right is a Class E felony, carrying a potential state prison sentence and permanent damage to one’s professional standing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right | Class E Felony | 1 to 4 years | Up to $5,000 or double the gain | Forfeiture of public office/position | Permanent criminal record, loss of pension benefits, professional disqualification |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Official Misconduct & Corruption Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in cases requiring a detailed understanding of legal authority and procedure. We approach each extortion under color of official right defense with a focus on the specific facts and the high burden of proof the prosecution must meet.
Case Results in Warren County
Our commitment to defense in Warren County is demonstrated by our local focus. We have 5 documented results in this jurisdiction, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Warren County Extortion Under Color of Official Right Defense Lawyer Near You
Our New York location serves clients at Warren County courts. We represent individuals in Lake George, Glens Falls, Queensbury, Bolton Landing, Warrensburg, Chestertown, and North Creek.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838) 292-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Extortion Under Color of Official Right in Warren County
What is “color of official right” in an extortion charge?
It depends. The phrase means the defendant used their actual or purported authority as a public servant to obtain property. The prosecution must prove the individual exploited their official position to commit the theft.
Is extortion under color of official right a federal or state crime in New York?
It can be both. New York prosecutes it under state Penal Law. The federal government can also prosecute similar conduct under the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951) if interstate commerce is affected.
What are the defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to deprive the owner of property, that the property was a lawful fee or payment, or that the defendant was not acting under their official authority. Each defense requires a detailed factual and legal analysis.
Can I lose my job if charged with this crime?
Yes. A public official charged with this felony will likely be suspended and may face termination. A conviction typically results in forfeiture of the public office and can lead to permanent disqualification from future government employment.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
Immediately contact an extortion charge defense lawyer Warren County. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. An experienced lawyer can intervene early, protect your rights, and begin building a defense strategy.
How is this different from bribery?
Bribery involves offering something of value to influence an official’s action. Extortion under color of official right involves the official themselves demanding property by exploiting their position. The initiator of the unlawful exchange differs.
Who prosecutes these cases in Warren County?
The Warren County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes state charges in the Warren County Supreme Court. Federal charges would be handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
Should I hire a local Warren County lawyer or a firm with broader experience?
For a complex charge like extortion under color of official right, you need a blackmail defense lawyer Warren County with specific experience in official misconduct and the resources to challenge a serious prosecution. A firm with multi-jurisdictional experience and former prosecutors can provide a strategic advantage.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on extortion under color of official right defense.