Define: Extort

Extort
Extort
Quick Summary of Extort

Extortion is the act of coercing someone to do something against their will or taking something from them through threats or intimidation. It is akin to theft, but involves using fear or violence to achieve one’s desires. It is an unethical and illegal behaviour. Related term: Extortive (adjective) – pertaining to or involving extortion.

Full Definition Of Extort

To coerce or obtain something from someone through the use of threats, violence, or unfair and illegal methods. Examples include the kidnappers demanding a large sum of money from the victim’s family in exchange for his release, and the corrupt official soliciting bribes from local businesses in order to grant them permits. These instances demonstrate how individuals can employ intimidation or manipulation to acquire something from others. In the first scenario, the kidnappers utilised the threat of harm to extort money from the victim’s family. Similarly, the corrupt official abused his authority to extort bribes from local businesses in exchange for granting permits.

Extort FAQ'S

Extortion is the act of obtaining something, usually money or property, through the use of threats, force, or intimidation.

Yes, extortion is a criminal offense and is punishable by law.

The penalties for extortion vary depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it was committed. In general, however, extortion can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.

Extortion and blackmail are similar in that they both involve the use of threats to obtain something from someone else. However, blackmail typically involves the threat of revealing embarrassing or damaging information about the victim, while extortion involves the threat of physical harm or property damage.

Yes, extortion can be committed by a public official, and it is often referred to as “official extortion” or “political extortion.”

If you are being extorted, you should contact the police immediately and report the incident. You should also document any threats or demands made by the extortionist.

No, if you were coerced into committing extortion, you cannot be charged with the crime. However, you should still report the incident to the police and provide them with any information you have about the person who coerced you.

Yes, you can sue someone for extortion if they have obtained something from you through the use of threats, force, or intimidation.

The statute of limitations for extortion varies depending on the jurisdiction in which the crime was committed. In general, however, the statute of limitations for extortion is between three and five years.

Yes, you can be charged with extortion even if you didn’t actually obtain anything from the victim. The crime of extortion is based on the act of making threats or using force or intimidation to obtain something, not on whether or not the extortionist was successful in obtaining it.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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