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 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 18 U.S.C. § 1951, the Hobbs Act. This statute prohibits a public official from obtaining property to which they are not entitled, under the pretense of their official position. The charge does not require a quid pro quo — the mere acceptance of a benefit in connection with an official act can constitute extortion under color of official right. In Virginia Beach, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), Norfolk Division, located at 600 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. 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)
For the official text of the Hobbs Act, visit the U.S. Department of Justice — Federal Crimes (justice.gov). For the Eastern District of Virginia court information, see the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (vaed.uscourts.gov).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), prosecutors routinely present extortion under color of official right cases to a grand jury before seeking an indictment. We have observed that the government often relies on recorded conversations, financial records, and witness testimony to establish the official’s acceptance of benefits.
- Do not speak to federal agents without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Prepare for a potential grand jury subpoena.
- Attend all court appearances at the Norfolk Division courthouse.
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) | Supervised release, forfeiture of assets, loss of public office |
Results may vary.
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%. 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 Virginia Beach, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right lawyer near Virginia Beach.
Serving 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
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 201-9009 | (888) 437-7747
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.
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 and negotiating with prosecutors under 18 U.S.C. § 1951.
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 and do not discuss your case with anyone.
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 up to 20 years in federal prison under 18 U.S.C. § 1951.
Learn more about our services: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia (state hub).
Related pages: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Fairfax County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Arlington County.
Other practice areas: DUI Lawyer Virginia Beach and Obstruction Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach.
Last verified: May 2026