Civil RICO and the Growing Use of Treble Damages in Business Disputes October 10, 2025 The ability to recover treble damages is one of the most significant incentives for plaintiffs to file a Civil RICO lawsuit. Under Civil RICO, plaintiffs can recover three times the amount of actual damages if they can prove that their business or property was harmed by a pattern of racketeering activity. This provision has made Civil RICO an attractive option in many business-related disputes, where the prospect of tripled damages can dramatically alter the stakes. This article explores the use...
The Challenges of Proving a “Pattern of Racketeering” in Civil RICO Cases September 26, 2025 One of the most difficult aspects of pursuing a Civil RICO case is proving that the defendant engaged in a “pattern of racketeering activity.” While Civil RICO provides plaintiffs with the opportunity to seek treble damages and attorney’s fees for harms caused by racketeering, establishing the necessary elements—particularly the pattern requirement—can be a significant hurdle. This article examines the concept of a “pattern” in Civil RICO litigation, the legal standards involved, and the challenges plaintiffs face in meeting this requirement....
The Expanding Scope of Civil RICO Beyond Organized Crime September 12, 2025 Originally designed to combat traditional organized crime, the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) has evolved significantly since its enactment in 1970. While the statute was intended to target the Mafia and other criminal syndicates, the broad language of Civil RICO has made it applicable to a wide array of legal contexts, including business disputes, corporate fraud, and political corruption. This article will explore how Civil RICO has expanded beyond its initial scope and the implications of this shift...
Settlement Strategies in Complex Litigation: Challenges and Best Practices August 5, 2025 Settlement is a common resolution in complex litigation, often preferred over the time, expense, and unpredictability of a trial. However, the complexities inherent in these cases — from multi-party negotiations to regulatory oversight — make settlement a challenging endeavor. In this article, we explore the key challenges in settlement negotiations in complex litigation and offer best practices for crafting successful settlements. The Complexity of Settlement Negotiations Settlement in complex litigation involves more than simply reaching an agreement between two parties....
Court Orders Release of Funds from Court Registry for Previous Homestead Homeowners July 20, 2025 Homestead homeowners that had previously deposited funds in the Whatcom County Court Registry as part of the Hillius v. 18 Paradise, et al. litigation now have a mechanism to receive the return of their funds. “This is a very good outcome for the former class members.” Stated attorney Jeffrey Possinger, attorney for MJ Management, in response to the Court’s order. “This process will ensure that monies owing [to the former class members] will get to the right people with the...