RICO

Understanding the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a powerful federal law designed to combat organized crime, but its broad scope means it is often used to prosecute individuals and organizations far beyond traditional mafia or gang cases. Enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), RICO allows prosecutors to target individuals or entities involved in a pattern of criminal conduct conducted through an “enterprise.”

Under RICO, individuals or organizations can be charged if they are involved in a pattern of racketeering activity, which is defined as engaging in two or more specified crimes (known as “predicate acts”) within a 10-year period. These predicate acts can include a wide range of offenses, including:

Fraud: Wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, healthcare fraud.
Bribery and Corruption: Offering or accepting bribes to influence business decisions or government actions.
Money Laundering: Engaging in financial transactions designed to conceal the source of illegal funds.
Extortion: Using threats, intimidation, or force to obtain money or property.
Obstruction of Justice: Interfering with an investigation or legal proceeding.
Drug Trafficking and Distribution: Facilitating the sale or distribution of controlled substances.
Gambling and Illegal Wagering: Running illegal gambling operations.
Human Trafficking: Engaging in forced labor, sex trafficking, or other forms of exploitation.

RICO cases can be brought against individuals, businesses, and even entire organizations. Prosecutors use RICO to pursue not only those who directly commit crimes but also those who conspire, aid, or direct others to engage in criminal conduct. A successful RICO conviction can result in severe consequences, including substantial fines, forfeiture of assets, treble damages in civil cases, and lengthy prison sentences.

Our Approach to RICO Defense: Strategic, Comprehensive, and Proactive

At A Einhorn Law, we understand that RICO cases are among the most complex and high stakes in the criminal justice system. Our approach is built on providing a strong, proactive defense that challenges the government’s case at every stage.

Challenging the Existence of an “Enterprise”: We critically examine the government’s evidence to determine whether they can establish that the alleged conduct was part of a structured enterprise — a key requirement for a RICO conviction.
Disputing Predicate Acts: We carefully analyze the predicate acts alleged in your case, challenging the government’s ability to prove that they occurred or were connected to the alleged enterprise.
Strategic Defense Development: Our defense strategy is customized to your case, whether that means demonstrating that your conduct was lawful, that you lacked knowledge of criminal activity, or that you were not part of any criminal organization.
Forensic Financial Analysis: In cases involving fraud or money laundering, we work with forensic accountants and financial experts to trace funds and challenge the government’s financial evidence.
Negotiation and Litigation Skills: Whether your case is best resolved through negotiation with federal prosecutors or requires a strong defense at trial, we are prepared to advocate for you with skill and determination.
Discreet, Reputation Protection: We recognize that RICO allegations can damage your name and career. Whenever possible, we work to resolve these cases discreetly, minimizing exposure.

Whether you are an executive, business owner, employee, or individual accused of being involved in a RICO enterprise, we are here to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Us for RICO Defense?

When facing RICO allegations, the right defense can make all the difference. At A Einhorn Law, we offer a unique combination of experience, skill, and personalized representation. Here is what sets us apart:

Elite BigLaw Background: Our firm’s experience includes nearly a decade of handling complex, high-stakes RICO cases at a top-tier BigLaw firm, including federal prosecutions and multi-defendant cases.
Strategic, Aggressive Defense: We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we tailor our defense strategy to the specifics of your case, challenging the evidence and targeting weaknesses in the government’s arguments.
Understanding of Complex Financial Crimes: Many RICO cases involve allegations of fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes. We have extensive experience defending clients in these complex areas.
Proactive Case Management: We take immediate action to assess the evidence, communicate with federal prosecutors, and protect your rights from the outset.
Discretion and Reputation Protection: RICO allegations can damage your reputation, especially for professionals and business owners. Our practice is built on maintaining client privacy and resolving cases with minimal exposure.
Selective, Client-Focused Representation: Our practice is intentionally selective. We take on fewer cases to ensure that each client receives focused, high-caliber representation.

A Einhorn Law is here to defend your rights, protect your reputation, and secure your future — with the experience, strategy, and dedication that complex RICO cases demand.