Extortion in UK. Edmonds Marshall McMahon investigates and prosecutes the full range of offences under the criminal law. This includes extortion, which is when someone seeks to obtain property, money or other assets through coercion or blackmail. Blackmail is an offence under section 21 of the Theft Act 1968 and given what is at stake, we understand that these cases require very careful handling, as well as urgent and effective action.
Many extortion and blackmail victims are high profile individuals and as is often the case, the more famous and successful the victim, the greater the scope for damage. The release of particular information about a victim may have a catastrophic effect on his or her career and reputation – this is, of course, the basis of a perpetrator’s leverage. In such cases, we consider various options for dealing with the perpetrator, including the possibility of an injunction, commencing criminal proceedings or engaging constructively with the demands.
If you are the victim of blackmail or extortion you should seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity. We can advise you (free of charge) by telephone or email as to whether we will be able to assist with your case. In the unlikely event that we are unable to assist, we will advise you on who to approach for the results you are seeking.
