Federal extortion under color of official right is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Hobbs Act) and carries up to 20 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake, Virginia. An Extortion Under Color of Official Right lawyer Chesapeake can help you handle these serious charges.
Extortion Under Color of Official Right Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Extortion under color of official right is a federal offense under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951. It prohibits a public official from obtaining property to which they are not entitled, under the guise of their official authority. This charge applies when an official uses their position to demand or receive something of value, such as money, gifts, or services, in exchange for an official act. The statute requires that the extortion affects interstate commerce in any way. A conviction can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, fines, and forfeiture of any proceeds. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Chesapeake. 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 against these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII — official site)
For the full text of the Hobbs Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue Hobbs Act extortion cases with aggressive tactics. We have observed that federal agents often conduct lengthy investigations before filing charges, including wiretaps and undercover operations. An experienced extortion charge defense lawyer Chesapeake can challenge the government’s evidence early.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Review the indictment with your attorney to identify weaknesses.
- Prepare for a potential detention hearing and arraignment.
- Work with your lawyer to negotiate or prepare for trial.
In Chesapeake, 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 (18 U.S.C. § 1951) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 or more | N/A (federal) | Forfeiture of proceeds; supervised release; no parole |
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%. Mr. Sris has extensive experience in federal criminal defense, including extortion cases. The firm handles complex federal matters in 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 Chesapeake. While no verifiable case result is available for this specific jurisdiction and topic, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. 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-464. If you need an extortion charge defense lawyer Chesapeake, we are available to serve you. Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, Greenbrier. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesapeake. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake (City), 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 Chesapeake General District Court (misdemeanor) and Chesapeake 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 — Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Chesapeake General District Court (misdemeanor) and Chesapeake Circuit Court (felony) (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) 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.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Chesapeake (City), Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
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 (Hobbs Act) 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 (Hobbs Act), consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a Virginia federal criminal attorney for case-specific guidance.
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Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia