The maximum penalties for racketeering include a fine of up to $25,000 and up to 20 years in prison in addition to the forfeiture of all business interests and gains gleaned from the criminal activity. In addition, the case can be re-tried in civil court; plaintiffs are allowed to sue for triple damages. The law covers crimes such as bribery, extortion, money laundering, counterfeiting, gambling, murder, arson, robbery, kidnapping, harboring certain illegal aliens, obstruction of justice, slavery and others.

In order to prosecute a RICO case, investigators need to establish evidence of the existence of a criminal organization. U.S. Attorneys General who pursue RICO charges can opt to seek an injunction or restraining order before trial that prevents the assets in question from being transferred and requires the defendant to put up a performance bond. This usually serves to push the defendant to plead guilty to the charges before an indictment (a formal accusation against the defendant).

RICO laws are especially effective in prosecuting those who retaliate against victims, whistleblowers or witnesses of crimes when those parties cooperate with law enforcement or an ongoing investigation. In addition, anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) laws can be applied in order to stop corporations or individuals from abusing the legal system by filing retaliatory lawsuits against whistleblowers or crime victims.