Attorneys Defending Licensed Financial Professionals In California
Financial advisors, certified public accountants (CPAs), stockbrokers, brokerage firms and other financial professionals are often entrusted with management of their clients’ investments and financial resources. Those suspected of violating this trust could find themselves the subject of an examination or investigation by the Financial Industry Regulation Authority (FINRA) and/or other legislative bodies.
If you have been notified that you have come under a FINRA examination or investigation, you need a skilled legal advocate with demonstrated experience in this highly complex area of the law to defend your rights and interests. The attorneys of Century Law Group, LLP have more than 50 years of combined experience representing financial licensees before FINRA, the SEC and related federal courts.
Representation in FINRA Hearings
FINRA and other regulatory bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) are tasked with protecting investors’ rights through the regulation and oversight of financial professionals and brokerage firms. FINRA may take disciplinary action against those it suspects of engaging in:
- Mismanagement of trust funds, mutual funds, stock portfolios or other investments
- Misrepresentation
- Broker fraud and other types of securities fraud
- Breach of fiduciary duty
Should FINRA officials open a formal hearing to investigate potential fraud, financial licensees will be called before a Hearing Panel to give testimony as to the conduct or information in question. At the hearing, both the plaintiff and defense are given the opportunity to present evidence for the Hearing Panel to consider and thus determine whether a firm or individual has violated FINRA or SEC regulations, or federal securities laws. The Panel may also consider previous decisions made by federal courts, the SEC and the FINRA National Adjudicatory Council (NAC) to determine whether violations occurred.
Once the Panel has reached a decision, they will determine appropriate sanctions based on the FINRA Sanction Guidelines. Sanctions could include heavy fines, license suspension or revocation, or even criminal sanctions.
Our firm specializes in the defense of financial professionals involved in FINRA hearings as well as other professional liability defense. If you have come under investigation by FINRA, the SEC or another administrative agency, we will assist you in preparing a strong defense and legal strategy to defend your rights and interests throughout the proceedings.
Contact Century Law Group, LLP
For candid advice and strategic, cost-conscious solutions to your professional liability concerns, contact Century Law Group, LLP to schedule a free, 20-minute consultation with one of our experienced lawyers representing licensed financial professionals. We offer reasonable rates and flexible payment options to suit your particular needs.
