RICO Defense Attorney in San Antonio

Facing Federal RICO Charges? Take Action with Trusted Guidance

When federal prosecutors pursue a RICO charge in San Antonio, the consequences can alter your life. The Law Office of Guillermo Lara Jr. understands what is at stake in these federal criminal cases. As a trusted RICO defense attorney in San Antonio, we blend deep knowledge of both federal and Texas law with a responsive, client-focused approach to defend individuals accused of racketeering and related crimes.

RICO cases require careful coordination and rapid response. Local investigations often involve multiple federal agencies and prosecutors from the Western District of Texas. Successful outcomes depend on understanding local procedures and federal requirements. 

We encourage you to seek timely legal counsel as soon as you learn of an investigation or charge. Thoughtful, direct guidance from an experienced RICO defense lawyer in San Antonio can make a meaningful difference in your case’s direction.

Secure a San Antonio RICO defense lawyer to fight the mandatory 20-year sentence and asset forfeiture. Schedule your free consultations by calling (210) 787-2842 or reach out online now. We are available 24/7.

Understanding Federal RICO Laws (18 U.S.C. §1962)

The RICO Act is a unique federal statute that allows the government to prosecute seemingly unrelated state or federal crimes (known as predicate acts) as part of a single, continuous criminal enterprise. Texas also has a state organized crime statute (Texas Penal Code §71.02), but due to the complexity and severity of the penalties, most serious racketeering cases are handled federally in San Antonio.

The Four Pillars of a RICO Violation

To prove a violation of the most commonly charged section, 18 U.S.C. §1962(c), the government must prove four distinct elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Enterprise: The existence of an ongoing association of individuals or entities (which can be a legal corporation, or an informal "association-in-fact" like a criminal gang). This entity must have a common purpose and endure over time.
• Association/Employment: The defendant was employed by or associated with this enterprise.
• Pattern of Racketeering Activity: The defendant conducted or participated in the enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity. This requires the commission of at least two specific criminal offenses (predicate acts) within a 10-year period.
• Interstate Commerce Nexus: The enterprise's activities affected interstate or foreign commerce.

The Pattern Requirement

The "pattern" element is often the most challenging for the government to prove. The two predicate acts must be related (similar purpose, results, or methods) and show continuity—a threat of long-term, repeated criminal activity. We attack this element by arguing the acts were isolated incidents or did not pose a threat of continuation.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a RICO Conviction in Texas

RICO is designed to impose penalties far exceeding those of the underlying predicate crimes, creating a severe deterrent.

Direct Federal Penalties

• Prison Sentence: Up to 20 years in federal prison for each separate RICO count (§1962(c)). If any predicate act carries a sentence of life imprisonment (e.g., murder), the RICO sentence can also be life.
• Massive Fines: Up to $250,000 for individuals (or twice the gross proceeds/gain, whichever is greater).
• Mandatory Parole: A period of mandatory supervised release follows any prison term.

Forfeiture and Asset Seizure

RICO's most powerful weapon is its forfeiture provision. The government may seek to seize:

• All ill-gotten gains derived from the racketeering activity.
• All interests in the enterprise (e.g., your ownership stake in a business).
• Pre-Trial Seizure: The DOJ can seek pre-trial restraining orders to freeze a defendant's assets before a conviction, making it difficult to fund a defense.