Los Angeles Extortion Defense Attorney

Extortion is one of the most serious financial and property-related crimes prosecuted in California. Allegations of threatening someone to obtain money, property, or services—even if no physical violence occurred—can lead to felony charges, lengthy prison sentences, and devastating consequences for your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing extortion charges, you need immediate legal representation.

At RP Defense Law APC, we bring over 18 years of experience to defending clients accused of crimes ranging from misdemeanors to complex felonies. With a 99% success rate in avoiding the maximum penalty, we know how to dismantle the prosecution’s case and build a strong defense on your behalf. Call (818) 646-3443 for a free discovery call and schedule a confidential consultation with a Los Angeles extortion defense attorney who will fight for you from day one.

Understanding Extortion Under California Law

In California, extortion is defined under Penal Code § 518 as obtaining property or official acts from another person by using force, fear, or threats. Unlike theft, where property is taken without consent, extortion involves coercing the victim into willingly handing over property or performing an act. However, their consent is obtained through fear or intimidation.

Extortion can take several forms, including:

• Threatening to cause physical harm unless money or property is handed over.
• Threatening to accuse someone of a crime unless they comply with demands.
• Threatening to reveal embarrassing personal information unless demands are met (commonly known as blackmail).
• Using threats to influence the decision of a public official.

Because extortion involves the element of fear or coercion, prosecutors in Los Angeles often pursue these cases aggressively, sometimes overcharging or mischaracterizing other conduct as extortion.

Common Examples of Extortion in Los Angeles

Extortion cases can arise in many different contexts. Some examples include:

• Personal Disputes: Threatening a former partner with exposure of private photos unless they pay money.
• Business Conflicts: Demanding payment from a business associate under the threat of reporting alleged misconduct.
• Workplace Issues: Threatening to reveal damaging information about an employer unless certain benefits or money are provided.
• Political or Public Figures: Attempting to coerce public officials into taking actions by threatening to expose damaging information.

Because Los Angeles is home to high-profile individuals, celebrities, and business leaders, extortion allegations can quickly escalate and receive widespread media attention. Having an experienced Los Angeles extortion attorney from RP Defense Law APC to manage both the legal and reputational aspects of the case is imperative.

Penalties for Extortion in California

Extortion is always charged as a felony in California, carrying serious consequences. Under Penal Code § 520, potential penalties include:

• Imprisonment: Two, three, or four years in state prison.
• Fines: Up to $10,000.
• Restitution: Repayment to the victim for any financial loss.
• Probation: In some cases, probation may be possible, but it usually comes with strict conditions.

Aggravating factors can increase penalties. For example, if extortion is committed against an elderly or dependent adult, or if it involves gang activity, additional sentencing enhancements may apply. Attempted extortion is also a crime under Penal Code § 524, punishable by up to one year in county jail for a misdemeanor, or up to three years in state prison if charged as a felony.

Federal Extortion Charges

In some cases, extortion may be prosecuted at the federal level. Federal extortion laws include:

• The Hobbs Act: Covers extortion affecting interstate commerce, often involving businesses.
• Mail and Wire Fraud Statutes: If extortionate threats are made by phone, email, or mail, federal charges may apply.

Federal extortion charges carry harsher penalties, often involving longer prison sentences and larger fines. They also face the full weight of federal prosecutors and investigative agencies, such as the FBI. The Los Angeles extortion defense lawyers at RP Defense Law APC are prepared to handle both state and federal extortion cases.

Defenses Against Extortion Charges

A strong defense strategy is critical in extortion cases. At RP Defense Law APC, we know that every allegation has two sides, and we tailor our approach to the specific facts of your case. Because extortion charges often involve personal disputes, business disagreements, or sensitive information, the prosecution’s narrative is not always accurate or complete. Some of the most effective defenses include:

False Accusations

Many extortion cases hinge on the credibility of the alleged victim. In disputes involving money, relationships, or business deals, one party may exaggerate or fabricate claims to gain leverage. Our Los Angeles extortion attorneys dig into the accuser’s background, expose inconsistencies in their statements, and uncover ulterior motives—such as financial gain, revenge, or an attempt to shift blame.

Lack of Threat

Extortion requires proof that a threat of harm, force, or exposure was made. A heated argument, aggressive negotiation, or strong-worded demand may be unpleasant, but it does not necessarily rise to the level of extortion. If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you made a threat designed to create fear, the charges cannot stand.

Consent or Agreement

If the alleged victim provided money, property, or services voluntarily—without coercion or intimidation—then the essential element of extortion is missing. In business or personal contexts, what prosecutors frame as extortion may actually be a consensual agreement or repayment arrangement.

Insufficient Evidence

Extortion cases often rely on text messages, emails, or phone calls as evidence. We challenge the authenticity, accuracy, and context of this evidence. A single statement taken out of context should not determine your future.

Constitutional Violations

If police violated your rights by conducting unlawful searches, seizing digital devices without a valid warrant, or intercepting private communications illegally, our Los Angeles extortion defense lawyers move to suppress that evidence. Without it, the prosecution’s case can collapse.

At RP Defense Law APC, our goal is to dismantle the government’s case piece by piece and create the strongest possible defense for our clients.

Collateral Consequences of an Extortion Conviction

In addition to prison, fines, and restitution, an extortion conviction can have devastating long-term effects:

• Loss of professional licenses.
• Barriers to employment.
• Immigration consequences, including deportation for non-citizens.
• Damage to personal reputation, especially in high-profile cases.
• Civil lawsuits for damages from the alleged victim.

A conviction may also affect your ability to secure housing, qualify for loans, or maintain custody in family law disputes. Employers and licensing boards often view extortion as a crime of dishonesty, making it especially damaging. Because of these far-reaching consequences, it is essential to fight the charges aggressively from the outset. The best way to accomplish this is to hire our Los Angeles extortion defense lawyers to protect your rights.

What to Do If You’re Under Investigation for Extortion

If you believe you are under investigation for extortion in Los Angeles, take the following steps immediately:

• Do Not Speak to Investigators: Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions until your Los Angeles extortion defense lawyer is present.
• Avoid Contact with the Alleged Victim: Any interaction could be misconstrued or used to build the prosecution’s case.
• Preserve Evidence: Save any text messages, emails, or voicemails that may support your defense.
• Hire a Los Angeles Extortion Defense Attorney from RP Defense Law APC Immediately: Early legal representation can sometimes prevent charges from being filed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Extortion Defense in Los Angeles

Is extortion the same as blackmail?

Yes. In California, blackmail is considered a form of extortion. Whether you’re accused of threatening physical harm or threatening to reveal embarrassing information, both are prosecuted under Penal Code § 518.

Can I be charged with extortion if I never received money?

Yes. Attempted extortion is still a crime under Penal Code § 524. What many people don’t realize is that you do not actually have to receive money or property to face charges.

Will my case go to trial?

Not always. Many extortion cases are resolved through negotiations, pretrial motions, or plea agreements. However, we prepare every case as though it will go to trial, which strengthens our ability to negotiate favorable outcomes.

What if I were falsely accused?

False accusations are common in extortion cases, especially in personal or business disputes. We investigate the accuser’s motives, expose inconsistencies, and present evidence to demonstrate that no crime occurred.

Why Choose RP Defense Law APC for an Extortion Defense Attorney?

• Experience: Over 18 years in the business defending clients in Los Angeles.
• Proven Results: 99% success rate in avoiding the maximum penalty.
• Focused Attention: We handle a limited number of cases to provide individualized defense strategies.
• Compassion and Dedication: We care deeply about protecting our clients’ futures.

At RP Defense Law APC, our Los Angeles extortion defense attorneys understand the gravity of extortion charges and the impact they can have on your life. That’s why we fight harder than anyone else in the room to protect your freedom.

Take Immediate Action to Protect Yourself Against Extortion Charges in Los Angeles

Extortion charges in Los Angeles carry life-changing consequences. If you are under investigation or have already been charged, you cannot afford to wait. Early action can mean the difference between dismissal, reduced charges, or years behind bars.

Call (818) 646-3443 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Los Angeles extortion defense attorney at RP Defense Law APC.