Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

blackmail and extortion

Someone close to me is asking a substantial amount of money and if I do not give, he will divulge what he knows. He said that I stole a lot. He sent me his demand through registered mail in 2001. I said to myself ''go ahead'' because I did not do what he thought I did.

What made things worse is everytime we encounter, he assaults me. The first time he assaulted me was thanksgiving day 2001 and the last time was January 9, 2003, infront of my father's sickbed. He said that I should pay him right there and on that day.

The last assault was witnessed by several people, including some nurses. It was reported by the nurses to the hospital's security, my statement was taken. He was gone when security arrived. I am forced to sue him because of the above.

What are the statute of limitation of these cases, criminal and civil?


Asked on 1/15/03, 12:44 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: blackmail and extortion

file your criminal charges with the police for assault and extortion. A civil case may be worth pursuing if the person has assets to collect against; if he has nothing, then you are going to spend a lot of money on a civil suit, on principle. If he has assets that make a case practical, contact me to discuss.

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Answered on 1/15/03, 2:05 pm


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