Economic Crimes

Fraud

Fraud is a criminal offense that involves intentional deception or misrepresentation to obtain something of value or to deprive another person of their rights or property. Under Section 817.034 of the Florida Statutes, various fraudulent activities are covered, including identity theft, credit card fraud, insurance fraud, and securities fraud, among others. Fraudulent acts can occur in both personal and business transactions, and they often involve false statements, deceit, or manipulation for financial gain. The penalties for fraud offenses in Florida vary based on the specific circumstances, the amount of money involved, and the defendant’s criminal history. Depending on the severity of the offense, fraud can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, with potential consequences such as imprisonment, fines, restitution, and probation.

Forgery 

Forgery refers to the act of creating or altering a document, signature, or other writing with the intent to deceive or defraud others. Section 831.01 of the Florida Statutes outlines the offense of forgery. Forgery can include activities such as counterfeiting checks, altering legal documents, creating fake identification cards, or forging someone else’s signature. The purpose of the statute is to protect the integrity of legal and financial transactions. Forgery is a serious offense, and the penalties depend on the specific circumstances and the value or importance of the forged document. In Florida, forgery can range from a third-degree felony to a first-degree felony, carrying potential penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and restitution.

It is important to note that both fraud and forgery are complex areas of criminal law, involving intricate legal principles and evidence. If you are facing charges related to fraud or forgery, it is crucial to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorneys can assess the details of your case, analyze the evidence, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. will advocate for your rights, protect your interests, and work towards achieving the best possible outcome. Contact 954-888-8833 today for a confidential case evaluation.

Racketeering (RICO)

At Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A., we provide comprehensive legal representation for individuals facing charges related to Racketeering, also known as RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), under Florida Statute Section 895.03.  RICO is a federal law enacted in 1970 to combat organized criminal activities and address the infiltration of legitimate businesses by criminal enterprises. RICO laws allow for the prosecution and dismantling of criminal organizations involved in a pattern of racketeering activity. Florida, like many other states, has its own version of RICO statutes to combat organized crime within its jurisdiction.

Racketeering (RICO) in Florida involves engaging in a pattern of criminal activity through an enterprise. The acronym RICO stands for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations. Under Florida law, the RICO statute (Section 895.03, Florida Statutes) identifies various offenses that constitute racketeering activity. These offenses may include but are not limited to drug trafficking, money laundering, extortion, bribery, prostitution, fraud, and illegal gambling.

Prosecutors can establish a case under RICO by demonstrating a pattern of criminal conduct, which involves at least two or more related predicate offenses within a ten-year period. State prosecutors aim to dismantle and disrupt criminal organizations by targeting not only the individuals directly involved in criminal activities but also the organization itself.  The penalties for a RICO conviction can be severe due to the organized and systemic nature of the offenses.  Penalties may include substantial fines and imprisonment for up to 30 years or more. Additionally, the court may order the forfeiture of assets obtained through racketeering activities.

To secure a conviction under the RICO statute, the state must prove certain elements to establish a RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) violation:

1. Enterprise: The prosecution must demonstrate the existence of an enterprise, which can include any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or other legal entity. This enterprise must be engaged in legitimate or illegitimate activities.
2. Pattern of Racketeering Activity: The state must show that the accused person engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity. This pattern involves at least two or more predicate acts of racketeering committed within a 5-year period. Predicate acts can include various criminal offenses such as fraud, bribery, extortion, money laundering, and more.
3. Connection between Enterprise and Racketeering Activity: The prosecution needs to establish a connection between the accused individual and the enterprise’s affairs. They must prove that the person participated in or was associated with the enterprise and that their involvement directly or indirectly affected the enterprise’s activities.
4. Intent: The state must demonstrate that the accused person acted with the intent to participate in or contribute to the conduct of the enterprise’s affairs through the pattern of racketeering activity. The intent element requires proof that the individual knowingly engaged in or facilitated the commission of the predicate acts.

If you are facing Racketeering charges or are under investigation, it is crucial to act quickly and seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Contact Natalie Lopez Attorney at Law, P.A. at 954-888-8833 to schedule a confidential consultation. Our dedicated legal team is here to listen to your concerns, provide you with strong advocacy, and fight vigorously on your behalf.