Extortion

A person obtained property from the alleged victim; the property was obtained with consent of the alleged victim; the alleged victim's consent was induced by the wrongful use of force or fear; and the person who used the force or fear did so with the specific intent to induce the alleged victim to consent to the giving up of their property.

Consequences for the conviction of Extortion may potentially include:

• Imprisonment
  
• Probation or parole
  
• Loss of the right to be bonded
  
• Restitution (paid to the victims to compensate for any losses)
  
• Court ordered counseling
  
• Significant fines
  
• Other

Likelihood of any of the above consequences depends upon the following factors:

• Prior similar convictions
  
• Any other prior convictions
  
• Currently on probation or parole
  
• Attitude of community and court toward this type of crime
  
• Degree of media attention on case
  
• Mitigating/aggravating circumstances
  
• Other

Defenses of Extortion may potentially include:

• Insufficient evidence
  
• Factual innocence
  
• True owner
  
• Other

What can you do to improve the outcome of your case?

• Gather documentation of your good character (reference letters, employment history, community service, etc.)
  
• Exercise your right to remain silent
  
• Retain qualified counsel as soon as possible
  
• Keep a diary of all significant events and potential witnesses (this information will help your attorney prepare the best possible defense)
  
• DO NOT investigate your own case

What can we do to help?

• Early preparation, including legal research and defense identification
  
• Early investigation and identification of all facts helpful to your defense
  
• Interview police to minimize or eliminate the case
  
• Interview the prosecutor to minimize or eliminate the case
  
• Interview all witnesses
  
• Reduce or eliminate bail requirements
  
• Provide emotional support to loved ones and ensure that they are continually updated as to the status of your case
  
• In appropriate cases, negotiate jail alternatives
  
• Obtain an evaluation report from a court approved psychologist (to show counseling may be a better alternative to jail)
  
• Coordinate a private lie detector test
  
• Develop appropriate motions to dismiss the case
  
• Develop appropriate motions to suppress evidence
  

DISCLAIMER
The statement above is not legal advice! This statement is not intended to be a correct statement of law in your jurisdiction. This statement is intended to give you a very general understanding of what is involved in this type of crime. Please consult an attorney to find out what law applies in your jurisdiction.