RICO Defense Attorney in Monmouth County

Facing RICO Charges? Trust Our Knowledgeable Counsel in Monmouth County

When you face RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) charges in Monmouth County, you need clarity, direction, and a team committed to protecting your rights. At Law Offices of Carlos Diaz-Cobo, our experienced team defends individuals accused under RICO statutes, guiding you through legal challenges and providing strong advocacy at every stage.

No two RICO cases are identical, especially across Monmouth County, where allegations may involve diverse local businesses, organizations, or intersecting state and federal law. 

Our familiarity with the nuances of RICO crime prosecutions, as well as local court trends, means we match our support to the practical realities of Monmouth County's judicial system. We know the processes, the court staff, and how cases proceed in regional courtrooms—giving our clients a distinct advantage as they move forward.

We are a trusted RICO defense attorney in Monmouth County that provides free consultations to help you understand your legal options. Our bilingual services make a quality defense accessible to everyone. Get the legal support you need by calling (848) 207-2709 or visiting our website.

Understanding RICO Laws in New Jersey

An accusation of a RICO violation is one of the most serious legal challenges an individual or business can face. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, originally a federal statute designed to dismantle organized crime, has a state-level counterpart in New Jersey that is just as aggressive.

Both federal and New Jersey law define RICO in a similar manner, requiring the prosecution to prove two key elements: the existence of a "criminal enterprise" and a "pattern of racketeering activity."

• Criminal Enterprise: The law defines an "enterprise" broadly. It can be a legitimate business, a legal entity like a corporation or partnership, or simply a group of individuals "associated in fact" for a common purpose, even without a formal structure. The prosecution does not need to prove that the enterprise is a traditional mob syndicate; they only need to prove that it is a group of people working together to commit crimes.
• Pattern of Racketeering Activity: To prove this element, the prosecution must show that you committed at least two "predicate acts" within a 10-year period. These acts must be related to each other and pose a threat of continued criminal activity. The "pattern" element is designed to target ongoing criminal organizations, not just isolated acts. 

The predicate acts that can be used to prove a RICO charge are a long list of both state and federal crimes, including murder, kidnapping, bribery, extortion, gambling offenses, drug trafficking, theft, fraud, money laundering, and many more.

Penalties of a RICO Conviction in New Jersey

A conviction for a RICO violation in New Jersey can lead to some of the most severe penalties in the state's criminal justice system. The consequences are far-reaching and can impact your life for decades to come.

• Lengthy Prison Sentences: A conviction for a state-level RICO charge in New Jersey can be a first-degree crime, punishable by a prison sentence of up to 20 years. If the underlying predicate offense carries a life sentence, the RICO charge can as well.
• Substantial Fines: In addition to prison time, a conviction can lead to a fine of up to $200,000 or three times the gross value gained from the illegal enterprise, whichever is greater.
• Asset Forfeiture: The state can seize any assets or property that were derived from or used in the racketeering activity. This can include real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, and other valuables, regardless of who owns them.
• Probation and Supervision: A person convicted of a RICO violation may also be sentenced to a lengthy period of probation, with strict conditions that can include financial restrictions and other forms of monitoring.
• Loss of Rights: A felony conviction results in the permanent loss of certain civil rights, including the right to own or possess a firearm.
• Reputational Damage: The social stigma of a RICO conviction is profound and can make it difficult to find a job or maintain personal relationships.

A skilled RICO defense attorney in Monmouth County will work to help you avoid these devastating consequences and protect your professional and financial future.