Staten Island Extortion Defense Lawyer

Staten Island Extortion Defense Attorney

Extortion is a serious crime that involves obtaining something, usually money or property, through force or threats. This can take many forms, such as threatening to harm someone or their loved ones unless they comply with your demands, threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information about someone unless they do something for you, or using your position of power or influence to coerce someone into giving you something. In the United States, extortion is a federal crime and can be punished by imprisonment and fines. Therefore, if you have been accused of extortion in Staten Island, it is important to seek the defense counsel of experienced criminal lawyers as soon as possible.

At The Vitaliano Law Firm, we understand your challenges and know how to protect your interests in court. Our team is committed to providing aggressive, knowledgeable representation for every client. We will thoroughly investigate your case, review all evidence and develop the most powerful possible defense strategy. Our goal is to secure an optimal outcome for you. We will tirelessly protect your rights and freedom from the moment we begin your case. Connect with our criminal law firm today to set up a defense consultation and learn more about how we can help.

What Are the Potential Consequences of an Extortion Conviction in New York?

The potential consequences of an extortion conviction can be severe and depend on your case’s specific circumstances and your criminal history. Under state law, extortion is generally a class D felony, which can carry a prison sentence of up to seven years. However, if the extortion involves a public servant, such as a police officer or government official, the crime is classified as a class C felony, which can carry a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

A conviction for extortion can also result in fines and other penalties, such as a criminal record, which can impact your employment and other aspects of your life. Therefore, it is important to seek the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney if you have been accused of extortion to understand the potential consequences of a conviction and to develop a defense strategy to protect your rights and interests.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help With My Extortion Case?

An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide valuable assistance in defending against extortion charges. Some specific ways in which an attorney can help with your extortion case include:

• Conducting a thorough investigation. An attorney can gather evidence and witness testimony, review police reports and other documents related to your case, and interview any relevant parties to build a strong defense strategy.
• Advising you on your rights and options. An attorney can explain your rights and options to you and help you understand the legal process and what to expect at each stage.
• Negotiating with prosecutors. An attorney can communicate with prosecutors on your behalf and negotiate a plea bargain or other resolution to your case, potentially reducing or dismissing the charges against you.
• Representing you in court. An attorney can provide strong representation in court, presenting evidence and arguments on your behalf and advocating for your rights.
• Protecting your rights and interests. A good NY criminal defense attorney can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process and that you receive a fair and just outcome in your case.

What Are Strong Criminal Defenses Against an Extortion Charge?

There are several potential defenses that an experienced criminal defense attorney may use to defend against an extortion charge. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of intent. To be convicted of extortion, the prosecutor must prove that you intended to obtain something through force or threats. If you did not intend to commit extortion, you might be able to argue that you did not have the required mental state for the crime.
• Insufficient evidence. To secure a conviction for extortion, the prosecutor must present sufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough evidence to support the charge, your attorney may be able to have the charges dismissed.
• False accusation. It is not uncommon for extortion charges to be based on false accusations for several reasons, such as jealousy, anger, or revenge. Your attorney can investigate to uncover any inconsistencies in the accuser’s story that may prove your innocence.
• Self-defense. If you were threatened or physically attacked and acted in self-defense, you might be able to argue that you were justified in your actions and that you did not commit extortion.
• Mistaken identity. If you were not the person who committed extortion, you might be able to argue that you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator and have the charges dismissed.

FAQs

Q: How Do I Know if I Am Being Charged With Extortion or Blackmail?

A: Extortion and blackmail are often used interchangeably, but they are two different crimes. Extortion involves obtaining something through force or threats, while blackmail involves threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information about someone unless they do something for you.

Q: Can I Be Charged With Extortion Even if I Never Actually Carried Out the Threat?

A: Yes, you can be charged with extortion even if you never actually carried out the threat. In some cases, simply making a threat can be enough to be charged with extortion.

Q: Can I Be Charged With Extortion for Demanding Payment for Services That Were Already Provided?

A: No, demanding payment for services that were already provided is not extortion. However, if you are threatening to withhold services or take other action unless payment is made, you could potentially be charged with extortion.

Q: Can I Be Charged With Extortion if the Person I Am Threatening Is not Actually Afraid of the Threat?

A: Yes, you can be charged with extortion even if the person you are threatening is not actually afraid of the threat. To be convicted of extortion, the prosecutor must prove that you intended to obtain something through force or threats, not that the person you were threatening was afraid of the threat. Speak with an experienced Staten Island criminal defense attorney to understand the specific charges against you and to develop a defense strategy.

Contact The Vitaliano Law Firm Today

If you have been charged with extortion, it is important to obtain legal help soon. The attorneys at The Vitaliano Law Firm are experienced in defending against extortion charges and will fight to ensure that your rights are protected. Contact us today for a consultation.