Extortion Under Color of Official Right lawyer Anne Arundel County, MD

Federal criminal charges for extortion under color of official right can arise when a public official is accused of using their position to obtain property or money to which they are not entitled. In Anne Arundel County, Maryland, these cases are investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. If you are facing an investigation or charges in connection with alleged misuse of public office, early engagement with defense counsel who understands the federal system is essential. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents clients throughout Maryland, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, and all communities in Anne Arundel County. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, leads a team of experienced Of Counsel attorneys who handle federal criminal defense matters. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Federal Criminal Defense Means in Anne Arundel County

Extortion under color of official right is prosecuted under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, a federal statute that reaches conduct affecting interstate commerce. Unlike state‑level charges, a federal indictment triggers a distinct set of procedures, from initial appearance before a magistrate judge through to sentencing under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. For defendants in Anne Arundel County, the primary federal venue is the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Northern Division, sitting in Baltimore. Federal cases in this district are handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys with substantial resources and investigatory support from agencies like the FBI, IRS‑Criminal Investigation, and the Department of Justice’s Public Integrity Section.

The stakes in a federal extortion case are significant: the Sentencing Guidelines generally drive the range of imprisonment, and the absence of parole means a sentence is served for its full term, less good‑time credit. While the guidelines are advisory after United States v. Booker, judges in the District of Maryland treat them as the starting point for sentencing. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team understand the procedural landscape of federal court in Maryland and work to identify every avenue for a thorough defense, from challenging the sufficiency of the government’s evidence to presenting mitigating factors at sentencing.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal Criminal Cases

When a client becomes the focus of a federal extortion investigation, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Intervenes early—often before charges are filed. Our team communicates with federal agents and prosecutors to understand the scope of the inquiry, preserves exculpatory evidence, and advises the client on interactions with investigators to protect the right against self‑incrimination.

If an indictment is returned, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel file appropriate pretrial motions, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. Where resolution is in the client’s interest, we explore plea options that may reduce exposure under the Sentencing Guidelines. If trial is necessary, the firm draws on extensive combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel to prepare a defense that addresses the government’s allegations directly. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, is led by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder. Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who has practiced in federal and state courts throughout Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background as a prosecutor gives him insight into how federal cases are built, and he brings that perspective to every criminal defense matter the firm handles.

Supporting Mr. Sris is a team of Of Counsel attorneys with extensive experience in Maryland federal courts. One member is a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted cases in both District and Circuit courts before joining the firm in 2010. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel concentrate their practice on federal criminal defense, including charges related to public corruption. The firm’s Rockville location serves clients throughout Anne Arundel County, from Annapolis to Odenton. All consultations are by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is extortion under color of official right?

Extortion under color of official right occurs when a public official uses the authority of their office to obtain property or money to which they are not lawfully entitled. This is a federal crime under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, and does not require proof of threats or force—only that the official knowingly misused the power of their position. Federal prosecutors must also show that the conduct affected interstate commerce, a requirement that is broadly interpreted. Convictions can lead to significant prison time under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is the difference between state and federal charges in Anne Arundel County?

Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in U.S. District Court and generally carry harsher sentencing guidelines, with no possibility of parole, while state charges are handled by the Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney in the District or Circuit Court. Federal extortion cases are built with the resources of agencies like the FBI and the IRS, and they involve procedural rules that differ from Maryland state practice. An experienced federal defense attorney can help you navigate the distinct pretrial, discovery, and sentencing phases of a federal case. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Maryland for extortion cases?

Federal sentencing at the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, a points‑based system that calculates an advisory range using the offense level and the defendant’s criminal history category. While the guidelines are advisory, judges heavily rely on them. For extortion under color of official right, the offense level often increases if the amount of money involved is substantial or if the defendant held a high‑level position. Mitigating factors such as acceptance of responsibility and substantial assistance to the government may reduce the range. Early representation by counsel familiar with the guidelines can influence the outcome. Results may vary. Every case is unique.

Do I need a lawyer if I am being investigated for federal extortion in Anne Arundel County?

Yes—if you learn that you are under federal investigation, you should immediately seek legal counsel and refrain from speaking with investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can become evidence against you. Federal investigations are thorough; agents may interview associates, review financial records, and obtain search warrants. Engaging a defense lawyer early allows you to protect your rights, avoid unintentionally incriminating statements, and begin building a strategic response. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

What should I look for in a federal criminal defense lawyer in Maryland?

Look for an attorney admitted to practice in federal court who has experience handling the specific type of federal charge you face and who is familiar with the local practices of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. It is also important to choose counsel who can communicate clearly and respond promptly. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience in Maryland federal court, and the firm includes a former Maryland prosecutor who understands the government’s approach. All consultations are by appointment. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747.

Can federal extortion charges be dropped before trial?

It is possible for federal charges to be dismissed or reduced before trial, but this generally depends on the strength of the evidence and the effectiveness of pretrial motions. Defense counsel may challenge the sufficiency of the indictment, move to suppress evidence obtained through improper searches, or demonstrate to the prosecutor that the evidence does not support each element of the offense. In some cases, the government may agree to a deferred prosecution or a plea to a lesser charge. Each case is different, and there is no guarantee that charges will be dropped. To evaluate your options, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. By appointment only. Reach our Rockville location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout Maryland, including Anne Arundel County.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.