RICO & Organized Crime Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against Florida RICO & Organized Crime Charges by a for Former Prosecutor
There is no good time in life to face charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) or for organized crime can be daunting. Federal and State prosecutors consider these types of charges among the high-level their office prosecute, alongside murder and sex offenses. As such legislators have deemed these offenses significant enough in our criminal code of laws that they carry severe penalties and therefore require a robust, strategic defense.
Hire a Board Certified Criminal Trial lawyer
RICO & organized crime lawyer Nicholas G. Matassini has the expertise and experience necessary to defend clients against such serious allegations. Board Certified since 2012 with over 20-years’ experience in State and Federal courts, Nick, a former prosecutor, is a Life member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the local Hillsborough County chapter.
Understanding RICO and Organized Crime Charges
The RICO Act was enacted by our U.S. Congress – and by many state legislatures including Florda – to combat organized crime and the mafia by allowing prosecution and civil penalties for racketeering activities as part of an ongoing criminal enterprise. Common offenses prosecuted under RICO include:
- Fraud
- Bribery
- Money Laundering
- Drug Trafficking
- Extortion
- Embezzlement
- Obstruction of Justice
Organized crime charges can involve a wide array of illegal activities conducted by a structured group that follows a common plan, scheme, or group rules. These cases are often complex, involving multiple defendants, extensive evidence, and numerous court battles over evidentiary issues.
State and federal law makes it illegal for any person to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity. In 1970, the Racketeer-Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, or RICO Act, was passed to thwart organized criminal activity in the United States.
The RICO Act allows for the prosecution of individuals engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity as part of an enterprise. Put simply, the RICO Act enables prosecutors to go after members of a criminal organization, even though those members may not be in charge of anything. Since its inception, members of the Mafia – including the heads of all Five Families in New York City who sit on the national Commission, Hell’s Angels, and Yakuza have been convicted under the RICO Act.
Today, the RICO Act is no longer exclusively applied to gangsters and hardened criminals, the Act is applied broadly to otherwise perfectly legal organizations. Under Florida and United States Federal law, a violation of the RICO Act is considered a Felony and carries serious implications. If you are facing charges of violating the RICO Act, a competent and experienced white-collar criminal law attorney should be consulted immediately, preferably one who is Board Certified.
Florida RICO Act
Tampa, Orlando, and Miami residents may face racketeering charges under Florida Statute 895, also known as the Florida RICO Act. Under Florida law, racketeering means to commit, conspire to commit, or ask someone else to commit one of fifty various crimes, including: Medicare fraud, assault and battery, burglary, perjury, extortion, and more.
To convict a defendant under the Florida RICO Act, the prosecutor must first show the defendant was associated with, employed by, had an interest in, or received money from an enterprise. A company, business, association, society, gang, or any other organized body of people constitutes an enterprise. It does not matter whether the primary function of the enterprise was legal or illegal.
Award-Winning Tampa RICO Defense Lawyers – Proven Expertise in Complex Litigation
Our attorneys have years of experience analyzing RICO statutes and organized crime laws in Florida. We are skilled in dissecting intricate cases, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and constructing compelling defenses.
Aggressive Defense Strategy by a Former Prosecutor
We leave no stone unturned in defending our clients. Our approach includes:
- Thorough Investigation: We conduct an exhaustive review of all evidence, including financial records, communications, and surveillance.
- Expert Witnesses: We collaborate with forensic accountants, investigators, and other experts to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Legal Motion Practice: We file motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully and challenge the prosecution’s interpretation of RICO statutes.
Personalized Attention from our Federal Defense Firm
Every case is unique, and we provide tailored defense strategies to meet the specific needs of each client. From the moment you engage our services, we dedicate ourselves to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
What to Expect from Our Office
If you are facing RICO or organized crime charges, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately. Early intervention can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Here’s what you can expect when you choose Matassini Law:
- Initial Consultation: We offer a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case, understand your situation, and provide an honest assessment given all the factors at play.
- Case Strategy Development: We develop a comprehensive defense strategy based on the specifics of your case with insight from our decades of court experience.
- Ongoing Communication: We keep you informed at every stage of the process, ensuring you understand your options and the status of your case. You have access to your client file and can easily set meetings.
- Vigorous Representation: We represent you in all court proceedings, negotiations, and, if necessary, a jury trial.
Florida RICO Lawyers Defending the Accused in State and Federal Courts since 1976
Hire the law firm business executives, musicians, politicians, and alleged gangsters use when it’s all on the line. Consider a Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney for your legal issues. When the stakes are high, there’s no room for trial and error. Choose a firm with a proven track record. Contact Nicholas G. Matassini right now for a free, confidential consultation.
