Atlanta RICO Defense Lawyer
The RICO Act
The term "RICO" stands for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations. It is a legal act, enacted in 1970, that is designed to specifically prohibit organized crime and racketeering. A person can be charged with a violation of the RICO act if they are a member of an organization or enterprise that has committed two of 35 crimes within a ten-year period. These 35 crimes are divided into 27 federal offenses and 8 state offenses, and include:
- Fraud
- Bribery
- Extortion
- Robbery
- Arson
- Kidnapping
- Violation of state gambling laws
- Counterfeiting
- Money laundering
- Terrorist acts
- Obstruction of justice
- Drug trafficking
- Murder-for-hire
The RICO act makes it illegal for a criminal organization to make money through legitimate business enterprises. Most laws related to the act allow law enforcement to seize the assets of those enterprises in order to cripple the organization and its ability to engage in criminal activity. If you, or your company, has been charged with violating the RICO act, it is imperative that you seek the help of an Atlanta federal criminal defense lawyer, as you may be facing serious penalties that include fines and prison time.
Charged with a RICO Act Violation?
Law Offices of Howard J. Weintraub, PC is a federal criminal defense law firm that is focused solely on obtaining strong results for clients. We understand that criminal prosecution is often at its most aggressive in federal cases, and so we provide legal representation that is equally aggressive in its defense of our clients' rights. If you are facing charges for a RICO violation, we can provide you with legal counsel that is intended to bring about the best possible result in your case. Your legal proceedings may be resolved in a manner in which you are exonerated of any and all charges against you, allowing you to avoid the stiff penalties that frequently accompany RICO convictions.
Contact an Atlanta RICO defense attorney if you or your company is being investigated for, or charged with, a RICO violation.