MN Attorney Now Taking On RICO Clients

The Minneapolis, MN based Birrell Law Firm is keen to offer their services as criminal defense attorneys to individuals facing prosecution under the US Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act (18 USC. § 1961). All those facing these charges are advised to seek the firm’s representation as soon as possible in order to give their case the highest chances of a positive resolution. Learn More about Birrell Law Firm online at their website and other online resources.

According to the firm, the RICO Act is, “a law that increases the severity of penalties for crimes performed in conjunction with organized crime. The law states that any person or group who commits any two out of a list of 35 crimes (known as racketeering activity in the US Code) within a decade and can be determined to have committed them with similar results or similar intentions can be charged with racketeering.”

Given the law’s view of organized crime, penalties for violations under this act carry stiff consequences. Those convicted for racketeering face fines of up to $25,000 and 20 years imprisonment, and they are additionally compelled to forfeit any business interests and gains that came about as a result of their criminal activity. The issue can also be pursued further since the case can be re-tried in civil court, where plaintiffs have the right to sue for triple damages. The Birrell Law Firm warns the community that, “The law covers crimes such as bribery, extortion, money laundering, counterfeiting, gambling, murder, arson, robbery, kidnapping, harboring certain illegal aliens, obstruction of justice, slavery,” and so on. Learn more about RICO cases from Birrell Law Firm on their website.

While charges under the RICO Act can be prosecuted in both state and federal court, defendants should be aware that both carry stiff criminal penalties. A civil cause of action can be brought under RICO as well. The firm explains, “RICO was first enacted as part of the Organized Crime Control Act of 1970. While its application was intended to be mainly used to prosecute those who are actively engaged in organized crime, its use has become more widespread and has been used as a tool for law enforcement to go investigate and prosecute individuals and businesses never initially contemplated under the statute. This even applies to financial and banking companies as well as a whole host of other types of businesses.”

As a result of this increased scrutiny on racketeering, the government may seek to hinder a charged individual’s life further by seeking a pre-trial restraining order or injunction to temporarily seize a defendant's assets and prevent any future transfer of potentially forfeitable property, which may have the effect of completely shutting off their primary income and making it difficult for them to lead normal lives. An individual who is later found guilty can face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Given the law’s complex history and the evolution of its use, the government often has to rely on a variety of tactics to land a conviction against an accused party. Defendants should not, however, take this to mean that the odds are in their favor because the government has several legal obstacles to navigate; instead, they should be aware that these obstacles can hinder their own ability to follow the case and present a defence. Due to this reason, the firm emphatically advises defendants against waiting too long to seek appropriate legal counsel or, worse, trying to represent themselves.

They elaborate, “Having a lawyer before you talk to a police officer or federal agent is one of your rights as an American and it is wise to talk with a lawyer before you try to “go it alone” against powerful and experienced opposing forces. Contact Birrell Criminal Defense to speak with our lawyers and staff today to learn more about your options and how we can help protect your rights, freedom and future.”

More information is available on the firm’s official website, and clients may reach out to Ian Birrell of the Birrell Law Firm to request further details or schedule a consultation. The firm also welcomes all those interested to connect with them through their preferred social media channels. Find out more at the following link: Rico Attorney MN.