The Racketeer-Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, known as RICO, is a potent litigation weapon, providing both severe criminal penalties and treble damages and attorneys' fees in civil cases. Enacted in 1970 and originally designed to combat the influence of organized crime in legitimate businesses, its broad provisions have been applied to almost all types of commercial dealings. The attorneys at Miller Wells PLLC have handled trial and appellate matters in federal courts throughout the country involving RICO claims.