■  Extortion Attorney

Extortion Attorney

What is Extortion? Las Vegas, Nevada

Extortion is a crime that takes someone's property with the use of threats to a victim's property, family, or by false claim of authority. According to Wikipedia: in United states Extortion may also be committed as a federal crime across a computer system, phone, by mail or in using any instrument of interstate commerce. Federal crime “Extortion requires that the individual sent the message "willingly" and "knowingly" as elements of the crime. The message only has to be sent (but does not have to reach the intended recipient) to commit the crime of extortion”.

Extortion - Common Usage in Las Vegas, NV

The term extortion is often used metaphorically to refer to usury or to price-gouging, though neither is legally considered extortion. It is also often used loosely to refer to everyday situations where one person feels indebted against their will, to another, in order to receive an essential service or avoid legal consequences. This example includes:

• Certain lawsuits
• Fees for services such as banking
• Automobile insurance
• Gasoline prices
• Even taxation, have all been labeled "legalized extortion" by people with various social or political beliefs.

Extortion - Common Law

Under the common law, extortion is a misdemeanor consisting of an unlawful taking of money by a government officer. Most jurisdictions have statutes governing extortion that broaden the common-law definition. When used in this sense, extortion is synonymous with blackmail, which is extortion by a private person. In addition, under some statutes a corporation may be liable for extortion.

Elements of Offense

Virtually all extortion statutes require that a threat must be made to the person or property of the victim. Extortion may be carried out by a threat to tell the victim's spouse that the victim is having an illicit sexual affair with another. Other types of threats sufficient to constitute extortion include those to harm the victim's business and those to either testify against the victim or withhold testimony necessary to his or her defense or claim in an administrative proceeding or a lawsuit.

What can you do if you are accused of extortion? Las Vegas, Nevada

What are Possible Defenses against an Accusation of Extortion?

Extortion is a crime, so all the defenses available for other crimes can be used. A person who acts under a claim of right an honest belief that he or she has a right to the money or property taken may allege this factor as an affirmative defense to an extortion charge. While the consequences of committing extortion are severe, there are many defenses which make this crime certainly one worth fighting. Being falsely accused of and wrongly arrested for blackmail can result in unjust charges being filed against you.

Criminal Defense Lawyer, Las Vegas, NV

In order to better understand extortion and the defenses that are available to it. Las Vegas, Nevada Crimes Attorney William A. Kennedy will provide a comprehensive guideline to help you understand your rights regarding the extortion laws in Las Vegas, Nevada. Give him a call for free consultation at 474-7000 in Las Vegas.