When is it Considered Extortion?
A perpetrator of extortion aims to benefit themselves. To achieve this goal, they use violence or threaten with violence. As a result, another person is forced to, for example, hand over goods or share information. Someone can also be forced to take on debt or to forgive debts. Someone who forces another person to hand over their phone at knifepoint is guilty of extortion. This also applies to someone who forces another to pay a sum of money by threatening death, for example through an anonymous threatening letter. In common parlance, extortion is also called “blackmail”.
What Punishment Can You get for Extortion?
In case of extortion, a criminal judge can impose a prison sentence of nine years. It is therefore advisable to seek legal advice from an expert. One of our lawyers can investigate whether there is sufficient evidence against you. We can also advise you on the best defense strategy.
What is the Difference between Extortion and Robbery?
The difference between robbery and extortion is small. Someone who is guilty of theft will take the goods. The perpetrator of extortion will force the other person to hand over the goods. To illustrate: someone who takes money from the cash register during an armed robbery is guilty of robbery. Someone who forces the cashier to hand over the money under threat of a firearm is guilty of extortion. The law assigns the same maximum penalty to both offenses.
Why is it Advisable to Hire a Lawyer if You are Suspected of Extortion?
If you are suspected of extortion, you risk a long prison sentence. This can affect the rest of your life. It is wise to seek expert advice. Your lawyer will look for the best defense strategy based on your criminal file. There might even be a possibility of acquittal in your criminal case. Our lawyers are specialized in these types of criminal cases. You can always contact us without obligation to discuss the possibilities.
