Are you looking for more information about the securities and commodities market? Or are you interested in knowing more about securities fraud? One of the most effective ways to acquire this information is through meeting with a business attorney with experience as a securities fraud lawyer.
You may already be aware that securities fraud is also referred to as stock and investment fraud. When fraud occurs, it is the result of one party providing false information to another in order to persuade them to buy or sell stocks, commodities, or other types of financial investments.
Due to this deceptive practice, investors often experience substantial financial losses. Furthermore, this practice is illegal and violates securities laws.
During the fiscal year of 2014, there were 1,639 pending cases. At this time, The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed 755 enforcement actions for different types of misconduct.
In 2015, the United States had 26,823 securities brokerage firms, and by 2016, there were over 3,900, according to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Over the course of the year, there were 785 fraud and insider trading cases referred for prosecution, 1,434 disciplinary actions, $176.3 million paid in fines, and $27.9 million paid in restitution to investors.
FINRA also reports that as a result of various practices and violations, 26 firms were suspended and 24 were expelled during 2016. There were also 727 individuals suspended and 517 barred from trading.
When planning to make an investment, it is a good practice to meet with a financial advisor attorney. This is particularly important because these individuals are aware of the nuances of making investments and can assist you with navigating what can often appear to be challenging terrain.
If you have witnessed or experienced unfair practices or fraud, then it’s important to contact the proper authorities. Depending on your individual situation, you may also want to consult with a securities fraud lawyer to learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a witness, unwilling participant, or victim of securities fraud.
When you’re not sure if fraud has actually been committed, it’s even more important to consult with a securities fraud attorney to determine what type of action, if any, should be taken. Rather than engage in speculation, consulting with an attorney can assist you with determining the facts of the situation.
