David R. Chase, P.A.
Call Us Now: 800-760-0912
Representation of Defrauded Securities Investors
The Firm represents customers of securities brokerage firms, investment advisory firms and hedge funds who have been defrauded or whose investments assets have been mismanaged resulting in financial loss. Companies and individuals who have been defrauded will require the services of a qualified and experienced investment fraud lawyer.
Typically, these cases are handled through FINRA arbitration on a contingency fee basis.
Misconduct Comes in Many Forms
Stockbroker and financial misconduct comes in many forms. Victims of fraudulent acts may be able to recoup their investment losses. Most claims against stock brokers and investment advisory firms fall into the following categories:
Many victims of Ponzi schemes were sold the fraudulent investment through a trusted stockbroker or financial advisor who works for a securities brokerage firm. The stockbroker or financial advisor often has not done the proper due diligence on the investment, may not fully understand the business and how it is to pay the unrealistic promised returns, and is likely blinded by the large commission payout he is to receive from the sale of the investment. The broker has also usually not informed his employing securities firm that he is selling the investment (this is called selling away from the firm). Unfortunately, by the time the Ponzi scheme unravels, it is too late and the money is gone.
In these situations, the David Chase, P.A. has had success in pursuing arbitration claims for the recovery of investment losses against the securities brokerage firm that employed the stockbroker or financial advisor who sold the fraudulent Ponzi scheme investment. The theory of the case is that the securities firm, which has an obligation under the securities laws to reasonably supervise its employees, is responsible for the investment losses because it failed to supervise the activities of the stockbroker who sold the fraudulent investment. This is true even if the securities firm had no knowledge of the sales, and even if it did not profit from them.
The Firm has obtained justice and compensation for individual clients, as well as groups of clients, in negligent supervision claims against securities brokerage firms that have sold Ponzi scheme investments to their customers.
Do You Have a Case? 10 Important Questions.
Ask yourself the following questions to determine whether you may have legal grounds to pursue a case for the recovery of your investment losses:
If you have answered YES to any of these questions, you may have a case and should contact out investment fraud lawyer for a consultation.
If you suspect you were taken advantage of by a dishonest financial investment professional, don’t hesitate to call for a confidential, no obligation consultation. While the Firm is located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, it represents investors nationwide and globally.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Securities Arbitration through FINRA
Because most brokerage firms include arbitration clauses in their customer agreements, you have most likely waived your right to a trial in court. As a result, you must bring your case in arbitration through FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) Dispute Resolution.
What is arbitration?
Arbitration is a method of resolving a dispute by referring it to an impartial third party panel, which is agreed upon by those involved in the dispute. It is similar to a trial, except the judge and jury are replaced by a panel of one to three arbitrators.
How long does arbitration take?
Arbitration is usually much faster (and more affordable) than civil court. The average length of time from the initial filing to the first hearing is approximately one year. A securities arbitration hearing can last anywhere from one day to several weeks.
Where is the arbitration proceeding held?
There are designated arbitration hearing locations in every U.S. state.
How much can you recover?
There are several damages and fees which you may be able to recoup if you were a victim of securities fraud. At the very least, we will pursue recovery of the money you invested less the returns and residual value of the investment. Possible damages include:
How much will it cost me? What is your attorney’s fee and what are the costs involved?
If you have been defrauded or have had your investment assets mishandled, contact David Chase for a free consultation at david@davidchaselaw.com or toll-free at (800) 760-0912.