Racketeering Lawyer Houston

The Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations statute, or RICO, is highly complex – and severe. A federal racketeering lawyer must have extensive experience to mount an effective defense in civil and criminal RICO cases. Anytime an individual or organization is being indicted by the federal government, working with a subpar attorney is a monumental risk – one you don’t want to take.

If you are facing charges related to RICO violations, our skilled legal team can help. At SKJ, you can be confident that you’ll partner with a dedicated and knowledgeable RICO lawyer who is well-equipped to navigate even the most complicated of cases. 

What is the RICO Act? Understanding RICO Law and Case Meaning

The Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations statute (RICO) was enacted in 1970 to prosecute crimes committed by way of what might be termed “organized crime,” specifically, racketeering. The RICO Act was signed into law by then-President Richard Nixon and became well-known for its use against Mafia-related crimes.

Initially, RICO originated in an attempt to combat the ongoing operations of large-scale criminal organizations. The act targets racketeering, making it possible to charge criminal organization leaders (syndicates) with the crimes they have ordered their followers to commit. In other words, the original intended purpose of the RICO Act was to prosecute mob bosses, who had long escaped prosecution by simply passing the buck when it came to criminal acts.

In recent years, the federal government has been leaning on RICO to prosecute a broader range of criminal activity, including investigations involving:

• International gambling and sports betting operators
• Motorcycle Clubs
• FIFA
• Healthcare-related fraud
• Immigrant smuggling and human trafficking
• Drug Conspiracies
• Police Departments
• Political officials

RICO also now has a companion statute, the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering (VICAR), which covers explicitly violent crimes such as kidnapping, assaults, and murder.

Federal Criminal and Civil RICO Law

Both RICO and VICAR are incredibly complicated statutes with the potential to disarm even typically skilled litigators. 

In addition to criminal prosecution, RICO also allows for private civil causes of action (18 U.S.C. sec. 1964(c)). When skillfully prosecuted, it can become a potent tool for prosecutors, forcing a convicted party to pay significantly increased damages. The statute provides for three substantial violations (noted in 18 U.S.C. section 1962(a) (b) and (c)(RICO substantive provisions), and 18 U.S.C. 1962(d) ( RICO conspiracy)), making it possible for a defendant to face treble (triple) damages and legal fees in a business litigation situation.

Outside of the legal complexities of RICO, it is imperative for individuals accused of RICO violations to understand that they can be convicted even if they did not personally conduct any of the affairs of an enterprise. An individual can still be convicted of RICO Act violations if they agree with another defendant (a manager or operator) to conduct the enterprise’s affairs through a pattern of racketeering activities. 

RICO Act convictions come with significant prison terms. Those convicted may also be forced to forfeit property and assets related to the organization involved in the case.

Why You Need an Experienced Federal RICO Attorney

There is a multitude of technical defenses that may be mounted against RICO claims. Still, it is critical that your selected RICO defense attorney thoroughly understands the fine-level details of these scenarios.

Being charged with RICO Act violations does not necessarily mean you have no hope of successfully escaping conviction. However, it does mean you need a competent RICO attorney to plan and implement a defense that achieves the best possible outcome.

A strong defense team, like the RICO Act lawyers at SKJ, will be able to:

• Review highly complex files and collections of evidence/documentation
• Pinpoint the most relevant issues in a case
• Analyze incredibly difficult legal issues and devise a practical solution
• Formulate the most promising defense possible
• Support a defendant through the ongoing stress of trial in federal court
• Complete critical deliverables promptly
• Provide responsive communication at all times
• Deliver exceptional legal service
• Minimize legal costs wherever possible

Secure An Experienced RICO Act Violations Defense Attorney in Houston, TX

If you are under investigation for RICO Act violations, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of racketeering cases. At SKJ, located in Houston, TX, we have unmatched experience in successfully defending clients against allegations of RICO Act violations. 

Contact Schaffer Kennedy Johnson Law Firm today to discuss your RICO violation charges with a qualified team of legal experts. Call 713-228-8500 KJM