David R. Chase, P.A.
Call Us Now: 800-760-0912
David R. Chase, P.A.
Call Us Now: 800-760-0912

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800-760-0912

Houston Insider Trading Lawyer

Under SEC Investigation for Insider Trading?
What You Need to Know

Call Us Now: 800-760-0912

If you are the target of an insider trading investigation in Houston, you are at a critical crossroads.  The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), often in tandem with the Department of Justice (DOJ), aggressively investigates and prosecutes insider trading cases using vast resources, sophisticated surveillance tools and advanced data analytics.  When the SEC initiates an investigation and contacts you either directly or through a subpoena, you need a knowledgeable and experienced advocate by your side — immediately.

David R. Chase, Esq., a former Senior Counsel in the SEC’s Enforcement Division and now a nationally respected and recognized SEC defense attorney, represents individuals and businesses under SEC investigation for securities fraud, including insider trading.  From his South Florida-based firm, he provides strategic, personalized legal defense across the country: to executives and employees of publicly traded companies, to stock market investors in Houston.  With over three decades of securities law experience and a focused SEC defense practice, Mr. Chase brings powerful insight into SEC investigations and how to effectively defend them.

Insider Trading: What is it?

Illegal insider trading occurs when someone buys or sells securities based on material, nonpublic information (MNPI) in violation of a duty of trust or confidentiality.  This securities activity is considered unlawful when the information is obtained or shared improperly, even if the trader is not directly employed by the company involved.

There are two primary types of insider trading the SEC targets:

SEC Subpoena Defense Lawyer Step 1

Classical Insider Trading

Occurs when a corporate insider (such as an executive or board member) trades company stock based on confidential information, or tips someone else who trades. Both the provider of the information (the tipper) as well as the recipient turned trader (the tippee) can be held liable.

Subpoena Defense Lawyer Step 2

Misappropriation Theory

When someone outside the company, such as a consultant, accountant, or lawyer, who lawfully comes into possession of the confidential information misuses it to trade for personal gain in breach of a duty, whether fiduciary or contractual.

Violations of the federal securities laws can result in severe ramifications, including:

Monetary civil penalties

Disgorgement of trading profits or losses avoided

Bars, permanent or for a period of time, from serving as an officer or director of a public company

Federal criminal charges and prison time in investigations conducted by the DOJ

Why the SEC Targets Insider Trading in Houston

Houston is one of the largest and most economically powerful cities in the United States. As the energy capital of the world, Houston is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, publicly traded oil and gas giants, financial institutions, engineering firms, and healthcare and biotech innovators. The city’s business environment is fast-paced and highly regulated, making it a frequent area of focus for federal securities regulators.

With a high concentration of corporate leadership, financial activity, and investment firms, the SEC actively monitors trading patterns connected to Houston-based businesses. In this climate, even innocent or misunderstood transactions can draw scrutiny from securities regulators. The SEC uses anonymous whistleblower tips, analyses of trading data, and internal cooperation between regulatory agencies to initiate non-public investigations that are typically well developed before the subject is contacted.

If you’ve received a SEC subpoena or suspect you’re under a securities regulatory investigation, it’s imperative to act quickly and seek legal counsel before speaking with the SEC.

Why You Need an Experienced SEC Defense Attorney

Insider trading cases are complex and require a thorough understanding of securities law, SEC enforcement procedures, and the strategies used by regulators.  As a former SEC enforcement attorney, he knows from the inside how the agency thinks and operates, and uses that insight to craft strategic defenses for his clients.

Why Choose David R. Chase?

Former SEC Enforcement Attorney

Mr. Chase spent years investigating insider trading cases when he worked for the SEC. His experience gives him a strategic edge when defending against such investigations.

Focused SEC Defense Practice

After leaving the SEC, Mr. Chase built a law firm entirely dedicated to defending clients against SEC investigations. Insider trading is a primary focus of his national practice.

Nationwide Representation

Though based in Florida, Mr. Chase regularly defends clients throughout the country, including those in Houston. He handles matters involving SEC subpoenas, Wells Notices issued by the SEC, and settlement negotiations.

Hands-On Legal Strategy

Every case is personally managed by Mr. Chase. He takes the time to understand your unique situation and builds a custom defense strategy to protect your rights and reputation.

What to Do If You’re Under SEC Investigation for Insider Trading

If you’ve received an SEC subpoena, a Wells Notice, or believe you are under investigation for insider trading, do not attempt to navigate the situation on your own.  Even a single misstep can permanently jeopardize your defense.

David Chase will:

  • Advise you on your rights and legal obligations
  • Persuasively communicate with SEC investigators on your behalf
  • Assist you with responding to subpoenas for digital information and documents
  • Analyze the facts and evidence in your case
  • Work to prevent you from being charged

Hiring a qualified Houston insider trading lawyer early in the investigation process can significantly improve your outcome and help you avoid unnecessary risk.

Contact Houston Insider Trading Lawyer David R. Chase, Esq. Today

If you are facing insider trading allegations or have received an SEC subpoena in Houston, now is the time to protect yourself with a highly skilled SEC defense attorney. Your future and reputation depend on the choices you make today.

Call David R. Chase, Esq. at 800-760-0912 for a confidential consultation. You can also visit www.securitiesfrauddefense.net to learn more about Mr. Chase’s credentials, successful case results, and the depth of his experience in handling complex SEC investigations.

Contact a Houston Insider Trading Lawyer

David R. Chase has been Quoted in the Following Publications