Extortion under color of official right is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act) carrying up to 20 years in federal prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and provides representation in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Federal extortion under color of official right is defined under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951. This statute prohibits a public official from obtaining property through the wrongful use of their official position, even without force or threat. The offense requires that the official accept a benefit knowing it was given in exchange for an official act. In Virginia Beach, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious allegations.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII — official text)
For the full text of the Hobbs Act, visit 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, visit U.S. Sentencing Commission (ussc.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue extortion under color of official right cases with aggressive tactics. We have observed that federal agents often conduct lengthy investigations before filing charges, giving the government a significant advantage.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents and communications related to the allegations.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Review the indictment carefully with your attorney.
- Develop a defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case.
- Prepare for potential pretrial motions and hearings.
In Virginia Beach, extortion under color of official right carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison under 18 U.S.C. § 1951.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; supervised release; loss of public office |
Results may vary.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach. While specific case results for this jurisdiction are limited, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264. If you are searching for an extortion charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach, we serve the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 201-9009 | By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole.
An experienced federal defense attorney is critical. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.).
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against extortion under color of official right charges?
Defense strategies for extortion under color of official right in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing extortion under color of official right charges in Virginia?
If facing extortion under color of official right charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
What are the penalties for extortion under color of official right in Virginia?
Penalties for extortion under color of official right in Virginia depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a Virginia federal criminal attorney for case-specific guidance.
For more information, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia page. You may also be interested in our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake or Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesterfield County pages. Additionally, see our Trespassing Lawyer Virginia Beach and Cannabis Possession Lawyer Virginia Beach pages.
Last verified: May 2026