Tampa Racketeering Lawyer
Racketeering is a serious crime in Florida, and one that can be penalized under both state and federal laws in some cases. At the law office of Trombley & Hanes, our Tampa racketeering lawyer can provide you with legal support and guidance if you’ve been charged with a racketeering crime. We have years of experience working on racketeering cases and know the best strategies to provide a strong defense. Reach out to us today by phone or online to learn more and get started.
What Is Racketeering?
Racketeering is found in Florida Statutes Chapter 895. Under the code, racketeering is defined as committing, attempting to commit, conspiring to commit, or coercing another person to commit any conduct defined as racketeering activity in the federal RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corruptions Act), as well as any crime “chargeable by petition, indictment, or information” under certain Florida statutes. An easier way to think about the definition of racketeering is to understand that racketeering usually refers to the act of collecting a profit through a coercive, fraudulent, or extortive coordinated scheme or operation.
Penalties for Racketeering
Racketeering is a first-degree felony in our state—one of the most serious classifications of crimes. Under the law, racketeering can be penalized by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A court may also order the convicted person to pay restitution to victims or engage in community service. Having a racketeering charge on your permanent record can lead to loss of opportunities, including challenges securing housing, employment, etc.
Options When Facing Racketeering Charges
Our lawyers will work with you to build a defense that makes sense for your situation. Some common defenses to racketeering include:
- A lack of a pattern of racketeering behavior
- Mistaken identity
- Legitimate business
- Lack of proof of criminal enterprise
- Lack of interrelation between underlying crimes
Our lawyers will review the prosecution’s evidence against you. Another possible defense may be lack of evidence for a conviction or lack of Constitutional evidence. If evidence was improperly seized or acquired in violation of your rights, we’ll work hard to have it withheld from court.
In some cases, entering a plea bargain is more sensible than is attempting to defend yourself against charges. With a plea bargain, you plead guilty in exchange for some concession from the prosecution, such as reduced charges or an agreement to ask for light sentencing. If negotiating a plea bargain makes the most sense for you, you can trust our lawyers—we are skilled negotiators who advocate for our clients’ best interests.
Call Our Tampa Racketeering Lawyer Today
To learn more about Tampa racketeering charges and what the future may look like for you if you’re facing racketeering charges, reach out to our law firm directly today online or by phone. We are skilled attorneys with a reputation for excellence. Call our Tampa racketeering lawyer directly to get the legal help you need at the time you need it most. We can travel to your location.
