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 Manassas, Virginia, and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
Understanding Extortion Under Color of Official Right
Extortion under color of official right occurs when a public official uses their position to obtain property or something of value from another person, under the pretense that the official is entitled to it by virtue of their office. This is a federal crime under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, which prohibits interference with interstate commerce through extortion. The statute defines extortion as “the obtaining of property from another, with his consent, induced by wrongful use of actual or threatened force, violence, or fear, or under color of official right.” The “under color of official right” element means the official uses their position to demand or receive something of value, even if no explicit threat or force is used. This charge is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) or the Western District of Virginia (WDVA). Federal sentencing guidelines apply, and there is no parole in the federal system. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII)
Official Statute and Court Resources
For the official text of the Hobbs Act, visit 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII). For information about the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, visit U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (official site).
Insider Perspective on Federal Extortion Cases in Manassas
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue extortion under color of official right charges with aggressive tactics. We have observed that federal agents, including the FBI, often conduct extensive investigations before filing charges.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Preserve all relevant documents, communications, and records.
- Contact a federal criminal attorney immediately.
- Understand the charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 and the potential penalties.
- Attend all court appearances.
- Work with your attorney on a defense strategy.
In Manassas, Virginia, extortion under color of official right under the Hobbs Act carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, fines, and restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extortion Under Color of Official Right (18 U.S.C. § 1951) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 or more | None specific | Restitution, forfeiture, supervised release, loss of public office, ineligibility for federal benefits |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Mr. Sris personally handles complex federal criminal defense matters, including extortion under color of official right cases. The firm has extensive experience in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, where federal extortion cases are prosecuted. Our team understands the high stakes involved in federal charges and works diligently to protect your rights.
Your Legal Team
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
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas and the Eastern District of Virginia. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 15 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria Division), with access via I-66 and Route 28.
Searching for an extortion charge defense lawyer Manassas or a blackmail defense lawyer Manassas? We serve clients in Manassas and the surrounding communities.
Serving the communities of Manassas, Sudley area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extortion Under Color of Official Right Charges
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.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole.
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.
Defense strategies may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors.
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.
Contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
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.
Penalties may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions under 18 U.S.C. § 1951.
Related Practice Areas and Locations
Learn more about our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia services.
Explore related pages: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Loudoun County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Fairfax County.
See also: Trespass Defense Lawyer Manassas and Burglary Defense Lawyer Manassas.
Last verified: May 2026