Fort Lauderdale RICO Lawyer

Fort Lauderdale RICO Attorney

Facing charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) can be stressful. When a business is targeted for unauthorized activities or is an asset bought with illegally obtained funds, workers and employees at that business can get caught up in an investigation into activities they knew nothing about. When this happens, a Fort Lauderdale RICO lawyer can help ensure your rights are upheld while planning a strong defense.

Hire a RICO Lawyer

When you hire a RICO lawyer, you want one with prior experience in similar cases. Our team is composed of former prosecutors and skilled defense attorneys who can identify weaknesses in the case against you and build a strong defensive strategy around the unique facts of your case. Fighting a RICO charge can be difficult, but a Fort Lauderdale white collar crimes lawyer can help. The Kirlew Law Firm offers comprehensive support throughout your case.

Prevalence of RICO Prosecution

According to the Federal Judicial Caseload Statistics reported by the United States Courts, civil filings involving diversity of citizenship addressing RICO grew 49% to 128 cases between March 31, 2024, and March 31, 2025. Additionally, civil filings related to federal question jurisdiction involving RICO grew 16% to 1,197 cases over the same time period.

If facing a RICO charge in Fort Lauderdale, state cases are heard by the Circuit Court for the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit at the Broward County Central Courthouse located on SE 6th Street. Federal cases are heard by the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida at the United States Federal Building and Courthouse located on East Broward Boulevard.

Common RICO Cases in Fort Lauderdale

RICO covers a broad range of criminal activities designed to prosecute large criminal organizations and stop organized crime. Unfortunately, small businesses and individuals who are not part of an organized crime syndicate get caught up in overzealous prosecution. Fighting these charges can be difficult without the help of an experienced RICO attorney. Common RICO charges in Fort Lauderdale, Florida include:

• Drug trafficking
• Boiler room operations
• Financial or investment fraud
• Illegal gambling and loan sharking
• Extortion rings
• Healthcare fraud

Effective Defense Strategies

The consequences of a RICO conviction can be steep. It’s important to seek a qualified Fort Lauderdale RICO attorney as early as possible. Defending a RICO charge can be difficult, but there are some possible defense strategies depending on the specifics of your case. Common defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent. To be convicted, you have to knowingly commit the criminal behavior. If there is no proof that you knew criminal activity occurred, the charges could be dismissed.
• No pattern of criminal behavior. Racketeering involves a pattern of activities. Isolated incidents or unrelated incidents are not sufficient to demonstrate a pattern.
• Lack of knowledge. A good defensive strategy can be to demonstrate that you left the organization before criminal activity began, so you would have no knowledge if any criminal activity did occur.
• Duress or entrapment. Arguing that you only engaged in criminal behaviors because you were threatened with harm if you did not, or that you engaged in an illegal activity because law enforcement encouraged you to do so.
• Statute of limitations. RICO charges are subject to statutes of limitations. If the charges are filed outside of the statute of limitations window, the case can be dismissed.
• Lack of an enterprise. Only organized groups are subject to RICO charges. Proving an individual acted alone or was not a part of a group or organization can lead to a dismissal of the charges.

FAQs

What Is the RICO Law in Florida?

Florida’s RICO Law is similar to the Federal RICO Act, but focuses on criminal offenses within the state’s jurisdiction. Specifically, Florida considers racketeering activities such as using resources acquired through illegal means to purchase or operate a business, acquiring or controlling property through illicit means, being employed by an illegally run business, or conspiring or attempting to commit a racketeering act.

What Makes a Crime RICO?

A crime is considered RICO when one or more of the predicate offenses are committed by members of an organization at least twice over a ten-year period. Prosecutors have to demonstrate that there is a pattern of racketeering behaviors by individuals associated in some manner.

It is unlawful to acquire businesses or property through illegal means or with money acquired illicitly. It is also unlawful to run a legitimate business using illegally acquired proceeds.

What Crimes Are Considered Predicate Offenses Under RICO?

Under RICO, there are 35 crimes considered predicate crimes. To be charged under RICO, you have to commit two or more of these offenses within a ten-year period as part of an enterprise. Some predicate offenses include bribery, counterfeiting, embezzlement, fraud, obstruction of justice, tampering, retaliation, forgery, money laundering, and murder-for-hire. The goal of RICO is to dismantle organized crime enterprises.

Has Anybody Ever Beaten a RICO Charge?

Yes, there have been cases where an individual has been acquitted of a RICO charge, but they are rare. An aggressive and knowledgeable defense strategy is necessary when attempting to beat a RICO charge. In many RICO cases, defendants can secure plea agreements for lesser charges that significantly decrease the potential consequences if they were to be convicted under RICO. While not as favorable an outcome as an acquittal, it can greatly reduce the possible penalties.

What Are the Consequences of a RICO Conviction in Florida?

In Florida, a RICO conviction is considered a first-degree felony with penalties of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Defendants convicted under RICO are also required to pay damages, which could be as high as three times the monetary value gained through the illegal activities. During the investigation, your assets may be frozen or confiscated. You may also face federal penalties and fines.

Contact The Kirlew Law Firm, PLLC

Facing RICO charges can be overwhelming. RICO laws are confusing and apply to a wide range of crimes. A RICO conviction can lead to serious consequences and leave you open to additional criminal charges and civil claims. You need an experienced and dedicated team to fight for your rights and ensure your interests are prioritized. Contact The Kirlew Law Firm today to schedule your initial consultation.