Extortion under color of official right is a federal offense 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 New Kent County, Virginia, and handles federal cases in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Federal extortion under color of official right is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, commonly known as the Hobbs Act. 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 accepted a benefit knowing it was given in exchange for an official act. In New Kent County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA). Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience. Advocacy Without Borders — the firm has handled numerous federal criminal matters across Virginia.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1951
For the full text of the Hobbs Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines (ussc.gov).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek indictments through federal grand juries for extortion under color of official right cases. We have observed that the government often relies on recorded communications and witness testimony to establish the quid pro quo element.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all relevant documents and communications.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately.
- Understand the charges and potential penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 1951.
- Prepare for initial appearance, detention hearing, and arraignment.
- Work with your attorney to develop a defense strategy.
In New Kent County, federal 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 | Loss of public office; potential professional license revocation | Federal supervised release; no parole; mandatory restitution; loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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%. Advocacy Without Borders — the firm has extensive criminal defense experience in federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
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 New Kent County. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. In New Kent County, the firm has 4 documented results: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 1 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances.
Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124), with access via I-64 and Route 33. If you are searching for a federal criminal lawyer near New Kent County, we can assist. Serving the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at New Kent County General District Court (misdemeanor) and New Kent County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months plus $2,500 at jury discretion); Class 6 felony: 1-5 years. Early legal representation is critical — New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at New Kent County General District Court (misdemeanor) and New Kent County Circuit Court (felony) (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124) is the GDC location.
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.
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.
Learn more about Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia (state hub). See also Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Loudoun County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Fairfax County. For related practice areas, see Reckless Driving Lawyer New Kent County and Robbery Lawyer New Kent County.
Last verified: May 2026 | Page generated: 2026-05-02