Westchester County Extortion Lawyer 

Experienced Defense Against Extortion Charges in New York 

When facing extortion charges in Westchester County, you need a dedicated legal team that understands the nuances of New York's extortion laws and can provide expert guidance and representation. At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, we protect your rights and defend your interests. Extortion charges can carry severe consequences, and we're ready to help you navigate this challenging landscape.

Call Riebling & Payton, PLLC today at (914) 712-6878 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our extortion attorney in Westchester County! 

What is Extortion?

Extortion is a severe criminal offense in New York, and it involves the act of coercing, threatening, or compelling another person to do something against their will by using force, intimidation, or fear. It typically includes the demand for money, property, services, or some other benefit from the victim under the threat of harm or exposing embarrassing or damaging information.

Extortion is often associated with organized crime but can also occur in various contexts, such as business disputes, personal relationships, or online interactions. Regardless of the circumstances, extortion allegations should be taken seriously, as they can have severe legal consequences.

What are the Penalties for Extortion in New York?

The penalties for extortion in New York can be harsh and include both criminal and civil consequences. It's essential to understand the potential ramifications of extortion charges to appreciate the gravity of the situation.

In New York, extortion is a felony offense, and the penalties for a conviction can be substantial. The severity of the penalties depends on the case's specific circumstances, including the degree of extortion, the victim involved, and any prior criminal record of the defendant.

• First-Degree Extortion: This is the most serious form of extortion, involving threats of physical injury, kidnapping, or using a deadly weapon. A conviction can result in up to 25 years in prison.
• Second-Degree Extortion: In cases where the victim is placed in fear of physical injury or property damage, a conviction may lead to up to 15 years in prison.
• Third-Degree Extortion: This charge applies when the threats do not involve physical harm, but victims are coerced to deliver property, money, or services. A conviction may lead to a prison sentence of up to seven years.
• Fourth-Degree Extortion: This is the least severe form of extortion, but it still carries a penalty of up to four years in prison.

In addition to the criminal penalties, those accused of extortion may face civil lawsuits. Victims of extortion often seek damages for financial losses, emotional distress, and harm to their reputation. These civil actions can result in significant financial liabilities for the defendant.

Defenses Against Extortion Charges

Facing extortion charges can be daunting, but there are several potential defenses that your attorney can explore to protect your rights and build a strong case:

• Lack of Intent: Your lawyer may argue that you did not have the intent to commit extortion and that your actions or words were misconstrued or taken out of context.
• Duress: If you acted under duress or the threat of harm yourself, your attorney may argue that you were forced to engage in the alleged extortion.
• Mistaken Identity: Your legal team may investigate the possibility of mistaken identity, proving that you were not the individual who committed the extortion.
• Lack of Sufficient Evidence: Your attorney can challenge the prosecution's evidence, raising doubts about their ability to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Consent: If the alleged victim willingly provided the property, money, or services, your lawyer may argue that it was not obtained through coercion or threats.
• Procedural Violations: Your attorney can scrutinize the procedures used in your case, ensuring that your rights were not violated during the investigation or arrest.

Contact Our Westchester County Extortion Attorney Today

Extortion charges can have life-altering consequences, affecting your freedom, reputation, and financial stability. When facing such serious allegations in Westchester County, you need an experienced and dedicated legal team.

At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against extortion charges. Our team is committed to protecting your rights and providing you with the solid legal representation you deserve.

Contact Riebling & Payton, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation with our extortion lawyer in Westchester County!