Pennsylvania RICO Defense Lawyer for Racketeering Charges
Understanding the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO)
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a federal law designed to target organized crime. It provides extended penalties and allows leaders of corrupt organizations to be tried for crimes they order but do not commit themselves.
RICO investigations are used to prosecute a wide variety of organizations, from drug and burglary rings to corporate executives committing white collar crimes.
The Law Offices of Arthur Thomas Donato is a Southeastern Pennsylvania criminal defense law firm that provides comprehensive defense representation to individuals charged under RICO. With more than 40 years of experience advising clients on investigations and crafting effective defense strategies, Attorney Arthur Thomas Donato has the proven ability to successfully defend clients against complex racketeering charges.
Are you facing a federal RICO investigation or charge? Get capable legal guidance from our Pennsylvania racketeering lawyer in a confidential consultation. Call (610) 565-4747 or contact us online to get started.
Types of RICO Charges You May Encounter
Under RICO, any member of an organization who commits two or more specified crimes in a 10-year period may be charged with racketeering.
The list of applicable offenses includes:
- Any acts that violate state laws against murder, kidnapping, gambling, arson, bribery, extortion, dealing in obscene matter or dealing in a controlled substance
- Acts that violate certain provisions of the federal criminal code, including those related to bribery, counterfeiting, embezzlement, mail and wire fraud, bank fraud, obstruction of justice, weapons trafficking, and slavery
- Embezzlement of union funds
- Bankruptcy fraud and securities fraud
- Drug trafficking
- Money laundering
- Violations of the Immigration and Nationality Act
- Acts of terrorism
Penalties under RICO can be severe, including steep fines and extended prison sentences, as well as forfeiture of all assets obtained through a pattern of organized crime. Maximum prison sentences for a defendant upon a single conviction is 20 years. Life sentences can be imposed in cases of serious crimes such as murder. Fines can range from $250,000 to twice the amount of the proceeds gained through the offense. RICO investigations also create a civil cause of action for individuals harmed by illegal activity that falls under the statute, allowing them to collect damages.
Effective Defense Strategies Against RICO Charges in Pennsylvania
When facing RICO charges in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to have a defense team that understands the local landscape and legal environment. The Law Offices of Arthur Thomas Donato, located in Media, PA, is well-versed in the intricacies of federal RICO laws and the specific challenges that come with defending such cases in this region.
Residents of Pennsylvania can find themselves dealing with complex legal issues that require a nuanced understanding of both federal and state laws. Navigating this terrain yourself can be challenging without the in-depth knowledge of a RICO lawyer. That's why it's crucial to enlist help as soon as possible.
One of the common pain points for individuals in this area is the extensive and invasive nature of RICO investigations. These investigations can disrupt personal and professional lives, leading to stress and uncertainty. Our firm is committed to alleviating these concerns by conducting thorough parallel investigations, anticipating the prosecution's strategies, and crafting robust defense plans tailored to the specifics of each case.
Understanding the local community and its unique challenges allows us to provide more personalized and effective legal representation. Whether you're dealing with allegations of drug trafficking, money laundering, or other RICO-related offenses, our deep-rooted knowledge of Pennsylvania's legal landscape means that you can receive high-quality defense.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Racketeering Lawyer for Legal Support
RICO charges often involve long, intrusive investigations that allow federal investigators to collect evidence and begin building a case. Our racketeering lawyer counters those efforts by performing our own parallel investigation, anticipating the prosecution's arguments and crafting a strategic defense that shines light on the prosecution's weaknesses.
If you are under RICO investigation, get competent legal advice today. Call our offices at (610) 565-4747 or contact us online for a case review with our racketeering lawyer.
