Practice Areas
RICO & Conspiracy Defense
RICO and broad conspiracy charges allow the government to combine many acts and many people into a single, sprawling case. That breadth can overwhelm - but it also creates openings to separate a particular client from the conduct of others.
What RICO requires
A RICO charge alleges a pattern of racketeering activity connected to an enterprise. The government must tie the defendant to the enterprise and to a pattern of predicate acts. Conspiracy charges, separately, require only an agreement and participation.
- An enterprise and the defendant's connection to it
- A pattern of racketeering (predicate acts)
- Agreement and knowing participation
- Foreseeability of co-defendants' acts
Defending a client within a large case
In multi-defendant cases, the central task is often to distinguish one client from the rest - limiting the conduct attributable to them, contesting membership in the alleged enterprise, and resisting guilt by association. Severance and careful motion practice can be important.
Exposure and complexity
RICO carries serious penalties and forfeiture, and the volume of evidence is often enormous. Disciplined organization of the record and a clear theory for the individual client are essential to an effective defense.
Prior results and recognitions do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
General information about rico & conspiracy. It is not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts.
Do I have to commit every act to be charged under RICO?
What is a predicate act?
Can my case be separated from co-defendants?
Facing a federal investigation or serious charges?
Speak directly with George G. Mgdesyan about your situation. Consultations are confidential, and the sooner you call, the more can often be done.