Greenville, South Carolina Extortion Lawyer

What is Extortion in South Carolina?

South Carolina criminal law combines blackmail and extortion into the same statute (SC Code § 16-17-640). This criminal offense is defined as using some sort of threat or intimidation to get something of value from another person. The item of value could be money, goods, or services. The threat could be a direct threat of physical harm or the threat to release personal or private material.

Coercion vs. Extortion

The key difference between coercion and extortion is intent. If the intent is simply to control the other person, this is coercion. Coercion can involve making someone commit a crime under extreme duress, or preventing them from doing what is legally required of them.

If the intent is to gain something of value, like money or services, the crime is extortion.

Is Extortion a Felony or Misdemeanor in South Carolina?

Under South Carolina law, extortion and blackmail are a Class E felony. This means that if you are found guilty of these crimes, you face a prison sentence of up to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Prior convictions on your criminal record can mean an even harsher sentence.

Felony charges are a serious matter and require in-depth knowledge of South Carolina laws to put up the best possible defense. Without comprehensive knowledge of the legal system, a person accused of extortion can end up spending unnecessary time in jail away from their family and dealing with the personal, professional, and financial repercussions of this conviction for years to come. A South Carolina extortion attorney can help you explore the legal options available to you and ensure you get the best possible outcome.

Extortion Penalties in South Carolina

A person convicted of blackmail or extortion in South Carolina faces up to a decade in prison and fines of up to $5,000. This is a Class E felony offense, and such a felony conviction can take away a person’s right to vote, carry firearms, and even custody rights. Felons have a difficult time finding adequate housing, employment, and education opportunities.

A skilled Greenville white collar crime defense attorney like AnneMarie Odom can represent clients and protect their future with an aggressive legal defense strategy.

Greenville, South Carolina Criminal Law Attorney for Extortion Charges & Other White Collar Crimes

People found guilty of a felony charge often spend years in prison and have a permanent stain on their record. It’s imperative that you take all the necessary steps to protect yourself from a lengthy prison sentence and a life-changing conviction. The best place to start is with an initial consultation from an experienced attorney at AnneMarie Odom Law.

If you or a loved one has been accused of extortion or other white-collar crimes in Greenville, contact a South Carolina criminal defense attorney from AnneMarie Odom Law as soon as possible. We can fight for your freedom and protect your constitutional rights with aggressive and proactive counsel. Call our law office today at (864) 775-5833 or reach out online to learn more about the criminal charges you face and the dedicated legal services we provide.