Chicago Defense Attorney For RICO Charges
The racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations (RICO) act is a federal law that allows prosecutors to go after all the individuals of a criminal organization, for the illegal actions of the few. This is a law with a lot of power and reach and those caught up in the net need help from experienced attorneys. That’s why clients turn to us.
At Wolf Criminal Law, our founder, attorney Bill Wolf, has earned a reputation for a hard-nosed litigator and passionate defense attorney. His work on RICO charges in Chicago and all over Illinois has earned the respect of his colleagues and thanks of his clients. RICO charges are a singular threat to people in all walks, but our legal team takes the fight directly to the prosecution to protect your rights and pursue a dismissal or acquittal.
How The RICO Laws Work
RICO’s primary targets are criminal organizations, and for most people reading that, they may think first of the mafia. However, the law doesn’t actually only focus on outright, notorious criminal organizations. Legitimate businesses and organizations, like social clubs, can and do become implicated in RICO charges.
The wide net of RICO stems from how the law is written and what it intends to do. It allows prosecutors to hold all members of an organization criminally liable for the actions of another. However, to do that, the prosecution must find that a person committed multiple criminal acts for the organization they belong to.
The connection between the criminal actions and the organization must be clear, but once that happens, the authorities can move on the entire group at once.
Federal RICO Charges Vs. Illinois RICO Charges
While the original RICO law is federal, Illinois and many other states passed their own version of the law. Federal RICO investigations typically look at criminal organizations that cross state borders, the largest criminal targets available. While a RICO investigation can and does target groups that stay within a state, people in Chicago are more likely to face charges from the state of Illinois.
The Illinois statute targets street gangs and smaller operations. The law specifically encompasses street-level organizations and gangs into its wording, making this one of the primary tools that law enforcement uses to combat criminal organizations.
An Illinois RICO case may focus on predicate crimes such as:
- Murder
- Gambling
- Arson
- Robbery
- Extortion
- Drug trafficking
Federal RICO charges may include more white collar level crimes, such as wire fraud or embezzling or health care fraud.
Regardless, a RICO charge either at a state level or federal level, is a considerable problem and you need a determined, experienced attorney on your side fighting for you. You could face extensive time in jail, asset forfeiture and considerable personal and professional consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions About RICO Charges
Attorney Bill Wolf’s reputation for criminal defense is built on experience and smart tactics. His ability to get results for clients, comes hand in hand with his ability to our clients’ most pressing questions. You may not have any idea where to start with your questions about your RICO case. Below are answers to a few we get the most.
What does a RICO charge mean?
A RICO charge can mean one of two things. The first is that prosecutors believe you have committed multiple criminal acts within 10 years on behalf of an organization. The second thing it could mean is that you are part of an organization recognized as a criminal enterprise. In any case, in a RICO case, all members of the organization can be charged for the criminal activities of one member.
How long are you in jail for RICO charges?
Each RICO charge in Illinois is a Class X felony, carrying a potential jail term between seven and 30 years. Furthermore, each count can be served consecutively at the court’s discretion. However, if the predicate crime of the RICO charge has more serious penalties, that is the penalty that will apply. In cases that resulted in an unlawful death, the charge’s minimum penalty is 25 years.
What does racketeering mean?
Most people know the term “it’s a racket” to mean an unfair, underhanded company or industry. The official definition of a racket is a scam or criminal organization. Racketeering are the actions taken by people to support a racket, such as extortion, bribery or other violence.
Reach Out To Wolf Criminal Law In RICO Charges
A RICO charge, at the federal or state level, is a major legal threat. You cannot wait for things to sort themselves out. You need a lawyer right away. Call us at 312-444-0907 or send an email to get a consultation today.