Boulder, CO RICO Lawyer

Were You Charged Under the RICO Act in Boulder, Colorado?

If you’re facing RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) charges in Boulder, you’re up against some serious accusations. RICO charges can be filed at state and federal levels and can carry severe penalties if convicted.

At Dawson Law Office, our RICO defense attorneys have experience representing clients facing RICO charges in Colorado. We advocate for our client’s best interests, which may include pursuing reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or, in some cases, seeking a dismissal.

Each case is different, and we explore all available legal strategies for our clients. If you’re facing RICO charges, contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.

What is the RICO Act?

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a federal law enacted in 1970 to combat organized crime.

However, its application has expanded to include a wide range of criminal activities beyond traditional organized crime.

To prove a RICO violation, prosecutors must establish:

1. The existence of an enterprise
2. The enterprise’s engagement in interstate commerce
3. The defendant’s employment by or association with the enterprise
4. The defendant’s participation in the conduct of the enterprise’s affairs
5. A pattern of racketeering activity

A “pattern of racketeering activity” requires at least two acts of racketeering within a 10-year period.

It’s important to note that Colorado has its own RICO statute, known as the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act (COCCA). While similar to the federal RICO Act, COCCA has some distinct features and may be applied in cases that don’t meet federal jurisdiction requirements.

As experienced criminal defense attorneys based in Colorado, we have a deep understanding of both federal RICO and Colorado’s COCCA. We meticulously analyze each element of the alleged offense, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.

If you’re facing RICO or COCCA charges in Colorado, don’t wait. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation.

Penalties for RICO Convictions in Colorado

RICO charges carry severe penalties, underscoring the critical need for experienced legal representation:

Federal RICO Penalties:

• Imprisonment: Up to 20 years for each RICO count (or life imprisonment if the racketeering activity carries such a penalty)
• Fines: Up to $250,000 per count or twice the amount of the proceeds from the offense
• Asset Forfeiture: Defendants may be required to forfeit any interest acquired through the racketeering activity

Colorado COCCA Penalties:

• Imprisonment: 8 to 24 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections
• Fines: Up to $1,000,000
• Asset Forfeiture: Similar to federal RICO, COCCA allows for the forfeiture of assets connected to the criminal enterprise

Additionally, both federal RICO and COCCA allow for civil remedies, potentially exposing defendants to significant financial liabilities beyond criminal penalties.

Protecting Your Rights During a RICO Investigation

You should take the following steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense against RICO charges.

1. Right to Remain Silent

You have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination under the Fifth Amendment. If law enforcement agents or federal prosecutors attempt to question you, politely decline and insist on having your attorney present.

2. Right to Legal Representation

You have the right to legal representation throughout the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings. Invoke this right by clearly stating that you want to speak with an attorney and refuse to answer any questions until your Boulder criminal defense lawyer is present.

3. Preservation of Evidence

Be cautious about destroying any documents or evidence related to the investigation, as law enforcement may consider this act an obstruction of justice. The Dawson Law Office can advise you on properly preserving and protecting relevant evidence.

4. Confidentiality

Be mindful of your conversations and communications, as they could be used against you. Avoid discussing the investigation with anyone except your attorney, who is bound by attorney-client privilege.

5. Cooperation with Your Attorney

Be honest and forthcoming with the Dawson Law Office about the circumstances surrounding the investigation. Never be afraid to give us relevant information or evidence to help build your defense strategy.

If you’re facing Boulder RICO accusations, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney at the Dawson Law Office who specializes in handling these complex cases.

We’ll guide you through the process, safeguard your rights, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Take the First Step Toward Your Defense

Don’t face RICO or COCCA charges alone – the stakes are too high to risk your future without experienced legal representation. At Dawson Law Office, we bring extensive experience in federal and Colorado courts, a deep understanding of complex RICO and COCCA statutes, and a proven track record in high-stakes criminal cases to your defense.

Time is critical in RICO cases. The sooner you act, the more options we have to build a strong defense.

Contact Dawson Law Office now for a confidential consultation.