NCJ Number
123720
Date Published
1988
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Civil liability is available against those who violate the Racketeering Influences and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO); the elements of a civil RICO cause of action include a pattern of racketeering activity, an enterprise which is engaged in or the activities of which affects interstate or foreign commerce, a nexus between the pattern of racketeering and the enterprise, and an injury to the business or property of the plaintiff by reason of the violation.
Abstract
It is claimed that the U.S. Supreme Court has interpreted these elements so broadly that lawyers are potentially liable. The elements are analyzed, and cases are provided to illustrate situations where lawyers have been sued under RICO.