RICO Violation Defense Lawyers
No matter the crime, a criminal accusation is always a stressful situation for those who have been accused. If you’re being prosecuted for RICO violations, you may be feeling uneasy, stuck, or uncertain about the future.
At Phillips & Nemajovsky, P.C., Attorneys at Law, we understand the anxiety you may be feeling, but we also know how to help. Our RICO violations lawyers in Albany, GA, are experienced in RICO violations cases, and we can guide you through the legal process.
What Is A RICO Violation?
In 1970, the federal government passed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) act, which was created to stop organized crime. Beyond its original use against the mafia, RICO laws can also apply to gangs, companies, or even politicians.
RICO violations cover a wide range of crimes, including:
- Arson
- Bribery
- Counterfeiting
- Drug violations
- Embezzlement
- Fraud
- Gambling
- Human trafficking
- Kidnapping
- Money laundering
- Murder
- Theft
- Weapons violations
- Wire fraud
- And more…
In order for the crime to fall under a RICO violation, the crimes must meet certain criteria. For example, the accused must have committed at least two crimes that fall into the above categories within a 10-year period. In addition, the crimes must be connected to an enterprise.
RICO violations can hold severe consequences. Penalties may include hefty fines and prison sentences that generally range from 5 years up to 20 years. However, for more serious charges, such as murder, it is possible to receive a life sentence.
If you’ve been indicted with RICO violations, your personal assets or property could be taken away, even before you have officially been convicted. A judge may also order that any money or property obtained under a RICO violation be returned to the previous owner.
What To Do If You’re Accused Of RICO Violations
If you’re facing charges relating to RICO violations, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to help with your case. Hiring a RICO violations lawyer will give you the best chance of defending the charges.
A RICO violation charges attorney can assist you with legal support, such as:
- Checking whether any of your rights were violated during the incrimination process
- Ensuring your rights are respected moving forward
- Informing you about your possible options
- Providing legal guidance and advice
- Negotiating a plea bargain
- Having your charges reduced or dismissed, when possible
- And more…
Different states, including Georgia, have their own version of RICO laws, in addition to the federal laws. If you live in Albany, GA or the surrounding areas, contacting Phillips & Nemajovsky will ensure you work with a RICO defense attorney who is familiar with both the state and federal RICO laws.
We have decades of experience defending criminal cases, including cases relating to RICO violations. From providing legal counsel to defending your rights to representing you in court, our firm can provide the legal support you need during your RICO violation charges case.
Q: What Is A Pattern Of Racketeering Activity?
A: A pattern of racketeering activity is a fundamental element of a RICO violation, which stands for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. This pattern implies the commission of at least two acts of racketeering activity within a ten-year period.
Racketeering activities include a wide array of criminal offenses such as bribery, extortion, loan sharking, money laundering, and certain types of fraud. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that the RICO Act is targeted towards ongoing, organized criminal activities, rather than isolated or sporadic criminal acts.
If you are accused of a RICO violation, you should immediately consult a competent Rico violation lawyer like Mark Phillips at Phillips & Nemajovsky, P.C. Attorneys at Law.
Q: What Is The Penalty For A Rico Conviction In Georgia?
A: A RICO conviction in Georgia can have severe repercussions. Penalties can include up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount of the illicit profits, whichever is greater. If an enterprise is involved, the fine can be up to $1 million.
Additionally, the court can order the forfeiture of any property or interest acquired through a pattern of racketeering activity. Given the severity of these penalties, it is crucial to hire an experienced RICO charge lawyer like Mark Phillips if you face such charges.
Q: What Are Georgia’s Defenses To A Rico Charge?
A: There are several defenses that can be used in response to a RICO charge in Georgia. Lack of evidence, absence of a pattern of racketeering activity, and lack of knowledge about the criminal nature of the activity are common defenses.
Furthermore, if an accused can demonstrate they were not part of an ‘enterprise’ or did not participate in the operation or management of the enterprise, they may be able to successfully defend against a RICO charge.
Given the complexity of these cases, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced RICO charge lawyer, such as Mark Phillips at Phillips & Nemajovsky, P.C. Attorneys at Law.
Call Us Today For Help With Your Case
RICO laws and cases involving RICO violations can be complicated. You shouldn’t face these charges alone. Put our knowledgeable team to work, and let the experienced RICO violation defense lawyers at Phillips & Nemajovsky handle your case for you.
For more information about RICO violations or to speak with one of our RICO violation charges attorneys, call our office in Albany, GA today at
(229) 808-8180.
Call For A Consultation
(229) 808-8180