When individuals or companies receive a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) subpoena, the first and most critical decisions to be made is choosing the right SEC investigation lawyer.
An SEC investigation can lead to serious life-changing consequences, including civil enforcement actions, financial penalties, industry bars, and reputational damage. In some cases, it may cause a referral to the Department of Justice for criminal investigation and ultimate prosecution. Having experienced, seasoned legal counsel who understands how the SEC conducts investigations, settlement and enforcement proceedings is critical.
While some clients initially consider hiring a large national law firm, many ultimately choose an individual SEC defense attorney at a specialized boutique practice such as the Law Firm of David R. Chase. Boutique solo securities law firms provide advantages that can be particularly valuable during high-stakes SEC investigations.
Below are several reasons why clients frequently choose David R. Chase over a large regional, national or international law firm when they need an experienced SEC investigation lawyer.
Direct Access to an Experienced SEC Defense Attorney
One of the most significant differences between a large law firm and a boutique securities law practice is the level of attorney interaction and access.
At many large firms, the senior partner who initially attracts the client may not handle most of the work on the case; rather, day-to-day important functions, such as document review, legal research, and drafting responses to SEC requests, are often handled by teams of junior associates who often lack the years of experience and professional judgment of their seniors.
Clients working with the Law Firm of David R. Chase work only and directly with David Chase, an experienced SEC defense attorney with over 30 years of experience, who previously served as a SEC Prosecutor. David R. Chase personally handles all facets of the SEC investigations and works closely with each client at every stage of the investigation. This direct, personal involvement ensures that important strategic decisions are guided by seasoned securities law experience from the outset through the finish.
For clients facing regulatory scrutiny, having direct access to their SEC investigation lawyer may make the difference of being charged or walking away.
Focused Experience in SEC Investigations
SEC enforcement matters require specialized legal knowledge. The SEC investigates a wide range of securities law issues, including:
- Insider trading investigations
- Market manipulation allegations
- Spoofing accusations
- Accounting and disclosure violations
- Investment adviser and broker-dealer violation matters
- Securities fraud claims
- Ponzi Schemes
- Trading and market conduct investigations
David Chase, an experienced SEC defense lawyer, understands the SEC’s internal thinking, strategic tactics and investigative tools, including subpoenas, testimony requests, and document productions.
Personalized Defense Strategy for SEC Investigations
Every SEC investigation is unique. The facts, the goals, regulatory issues involved, and the potential exposure vary significantly from case to case.
Large law firms sometimes rely on standardized processes or large internal teams. In contrast, a boutique practice can provide a more tailored approach.
The Law Firm of David R. Chase personally works with each client to develop a deep understanding of the facts and key drivers of the matters, customizing a defense strategy designed to avoid enforcement charges. These typically include:
- Responding to SEC subpoenas
- Preparing clients for testimony
- Conducting investigations
- Negotiating with SEC enforcement staff
- Addressing potential Wells notices
- Positioning the case to avoid enforcement action when possible
A thoughtful, individualized strategy formulated by an experienced SEC investigation lawyer can play a critical role in shaping the direction of the investigation and potentially to a successful result.
A Flat Attorney Fee Model: Greater Efficiency and Cost Control
SEC investigations can involve large volumes of documents, complex regulatory issues, and months—or even years—of legal work.
At large law firms, the traditional staffing model often involves multiple attorneys billing your case at different hourly rates, with some firms charging over $1,000 per hour. This structure often result in significant costs for the client with no guarantee of what the representation will ultimately cost.
The Law Firm of David R. Chase offers a flat attorney fee approach where the client knows exactly what the representation for the SEC investigation, and its various stages will cost. No surprises. No endless monthly bills. A client compensates David Chase for his judgment calls and experience honed over three decades, not for how many hours he bills. That is the way it should be.
For individuals, executives, and smaller companies facing SEC regulatory scrutiny, working with an efficient SEC defense attorney on a flat fee basis can be the most important consideration in hiring legal counsel.
Agility and Responsiveness During Government Investigations
The SEC operates on tight deadlines. Subpoenas may require rapid responses, document productions may be time-sensitive, and testimony requests may require careful preparation.
Because the Law Firm of David R. Chase is a solo practice, it operates with no layers, and can respond more quickly to client needs and regulatory developments. It also has the resources necessary to do what is required in defense of an SEC investigation.
When You Need an SEC Investigation Attorney
If you or your company has received any of the following from the SEC, it is important to consult with an experienced SEC defense lawyer as soon as possible:
- An SEC subpoena
- A request for SEC testimony
- A SEC request for an interview
- A document request from the SEC Division of Enforcement
- A SEC Wells notice
Early legal involvement and strategic guidance from an experienced SEC investigation lawyer can be essential in shaping the response strategy, protecting your rights, and potentially influencing the investigation’s outcome.
Contact the Law Firm of David R. Chase
Facing an SEC investigation can be stressful and complex.
The Law Firm of David R. Chase, headed by former SEC Enforcement Attorney David Chase, provides focused, individualized representation for individuals and companies dealing with SEC enforcement matters. With direct attorney access, personalized strategy, and extensive experience in securities regulation, in addition to a flat attorney’s fee structure, the firm provides the high-end, dedicated representation required in successfully beating a SEC investigation.
If you are under SEC inquiry or investigation, consulting with an experienced SEC defense attorney early in the process can be a critical step in protecting your interests. David Chase will personally take your call.
