Miami Extortion Attorney

Whether you or a loved one has been arrested or is under investigation for extortion, it is critical to consult with an experienced Miami extortion attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected. Extortion is a serious felony offense in Florida that carries steep penalties upon conviction. You need the counsel of an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process and maximize your chances of resolving your case with a favorable outcome.

What is Extortion Under Florida Law?

Extortion is defined under Florida Statute 836.05 as maliciously threatening another person or entity with the intent to compel them to do something against their will. To prove the charge of extortion, the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • The defendant delivered a threat, either verbally, in writing, or electronically, to the alleged victim.
  • The threat was made maliciously, meaning with deliberate intent to harm, injure, or coerce the victim.
  • The threat was made to compel or induce the victim to act or refrain from acting against their will. This means doing something they would not otherwise have done.
  • The defendant intended to compel the victim through the threat. There must be evidence of intent.

Threats under Florida’s extortion law refer to threats of future harm or violence to the victim or their reputation, business, or property. Threats of exposing secrets, embarrassing personal information, or destruction of property may also constitute extortion.

Examples of Extortion in Florida

Extortion charges may arise from a variety of circumstances. Here are some examples of extortion cases I have defended in Miami and surrounding areas:

  • A former employee threatens to reveal company trade secrets or embarrass an executive unless paid off.
  • An individual threatens to publicly accuse someone of sexual misconduct if they don’t pay them.
  • A person threatens to destroy property or harm pets if money isn’t delivered.
  • A gang member threatens physical violence against a business owner’s family unless “protection” money is paid regularly.
  • An anonymous perpetrator sends electronic messages threatening to reveal private photos or information exposing secrets if demands are not met.
  • An abusive spouse extorts a partner by threatening to harm children, pets, or relatives if demands are not satisfied.

These represent just a few scenarios that may lead to extortion charges. Any deliberate threats to induce someone into an action against their will, accompanied by intent, may constitute extortion under Florida law.

Penalty for Extortion

Extortion is prosecuted as a second-degree felony in Florida, carrying up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. However, the offense may be enhanced to a first-degree felony if the threat involved a weapon, dangerous chemical, bomb, or firearm. First-degree felony extortion can lead to 30 years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.

Contact an Experienced Miami Extortion Lawyer

By taking the immediate action of hiring an experienced Miami extortion lawyer to defend yourself, you are minimizing the chances that your criminal case will have lasting consequences for your career, personal life, and reputation.

CALL US NOW for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at (305) 538-4545, or simply take a moment to fill out our confidential and secure intake form.* The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.

*Due to the large number of people who contact us requesting our assistance, it is strongly suggested that you take the time to provide us with specific details regarding your case by filling out our confidential and secure intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry promptly and appropriately.

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