RICO Federal Crime Lawyer in Los Angeles

Racketeering Influenced & Corrupt Organizations Act

RICO refers to the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Originally, this act was developed with regard to areas of organized crime; however, its application has since broadened. A large variety of dishonest and fraudulent business dealings are now commonly grouped under this heading. RICO allows for severe penalties in the case of a conviction. A single offense can result in a 20-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount of the proceeds of the crime. Forfeiture of property may also be ordered.

Under both federal and state racketeering laws, it is illegal for a criminal organization of any degree to profit from any sort of business operation that has been legitimized. If you are under investigation for racketeering or profiteering, not only will your company be subject to a thorough review of financial records, accounting reports, computer activity and company files, you may also be subjected to confiscation as well as search and seizure of assets. Witnesses will also likely be interviewed and investigated. During such a turbulent time, a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can do much to ease the burden and determine the best course of action.

Penalties & Defense for Criminal Organizations (RICO)

If you are currently facing accusations for your involvement in any acts that were performed in tandem with an ongoing criminal organization, you are likely facing RICO accusations. It is under these circumstances that U.S. federal law calls for harsh criminal penalties as well as a civil cause of action. According to the stipulations defined in the RICO Act, the member of an enterprise in which at least two of any given 30+ criminal acts were conducted within a ten-year period is subject to charges of racketeering. Of the crimes categorized under the racketeering act, 27 are federal offenses and the remaining 8 are state offenses.

As RICO accusations or charges may be somewhat vague, it is vital that you have an experienced and knowledgeable attorney on your side. In addition to a lengthy prison stay and hefty fines, you will also be expected to forfeit any and all of the materials that were obtained via ill-gotten means. A civil lawsuit may also be filed by any individual who was personally harmed by the acts of racketeering for which you are now being charged. At Martinian & Associates, we can take actions to help prevent your rights from being violated throughout the investigation and in court.