Investment Fraud
Investment Fraud
Investment fraud, a type of white-collar crime, can involve a variety of different situations. If you’re facing charges associated with investment fraud, you need to contact a lawyer with proven white-collar case experience as soon as possible to get the ball rolling on your defense. These cases are complex and can involve weeks, months or longer of investigative efforts. Since there are so many federal rules and regulations involved, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you’re under investigation or if you’ve been arrested and are facing charges. Listed below are some common types of investment fraud.
Types of Investment Fraud
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Conflict of interest
- Overconcentration
- Failing to disclose risks
- Insider trading
- Fraudulent documentation
- Unauthorized trading
- Ponzi schemes
- Falsifying statements
- Churning
- Failing to follow investor’s instructions
- Not practicing due diligence
- Excessive fees
- Unsuitability
- Stealing money from investors
- Manipulating the market
Churning
Churning is basically when a stockbroker buys or sells securities to gain additional commissions for their personal gain. This essentially amounts to excessive trading for personal wealth enhancement. This is an illegal tactic is characterized by an excessive amount of trades which generates a high number of commissions for the broker in question.
Ponzi Schemes
Ponzi schemes are what typical come to mind when one thinks about investment fraud. We all remember some of the high-profile cases during the big financial crisis. A ponzi scheme usually involves an investment operation that is completely fraudulent. This scheme will pay investors from their own money or from the funds of other investors. There isn’t usually any profit made off of the fraudulent promised investment. It does however, involve large monetary gains to whoever has organized the scheme. If you’re facing ponzi scheme charges, you need to get with a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Not Practicing Due Diligence
In some cases, it may be possible to face investment fraud charges for failing to practice due diligence for clients. Investment firm clients are counting on their brokers to conduct the appropriate and lawful amount of due diligence expected of them. If a client loses a lot of money, because a broker failed to practice appropriate due diligence, there could be criminal investment fraud charges involved. Because it’s sometimes impossible to foresee certain financial futures, these cases can be difficult. Your first priority after any type of investment fraud charges associated with a lack of due diligence needs to be getting into contact with an experienced white-collar criminal defense lawyer.
Insider Trading
Insider trading is another one of the more sensational forms of investment fraud. Insider trading happens when stocks, securities or other investments are traded between individuals with access to information that isn’t public. These cases deal with privileged or secret information, not made public to ordinary and lawful investors. Trading using insider information can mean illegal windfalls for brokers and investors. It can also mean prison time. The federal government takes these charges very seriously.
Penalties Associated with Investment Fraud
Although charges associated with investment fraud are almost always non-violent in nature, the penalties associated with them can be very harsh. We’ve seen serious cracking down on white-collar crimes across the board. Depending upon the unique circumstances of your individual case, you could be facing up to five years in prison, or more, if convicted. These are felony charges. They can carry a very great impact on your ability to work and earn a living after you get out of prison too. An investment fraud conviction can mean the loss of your professional licensing and livelihood. Charges associated with ethical issues and fraud can keep you from getting on with your life after a case. Since the penalties associated with investment fraud charges are so hefty, it’s essential to get in touch with a lawyer as soon as you’re under investigation.
Jackson Investment Fraud Lawyer
White collar crime charges like investment fraud can send people to prison and ruin careers. Even though these cases are non-violent, they can hold significantly substantial penalties in prison time and fines. After any kind of criminal charge, it’s critical to speak with a defense lawyer about your case. Politely exercise your rights. Decline to answer any question, and ask to speak with your lawyer. It won’t make you look guilty, and sometimes it can mean the difference between going free and getting locked up.
If you or a loved one is facing investment fraud charges in or around the Jackson Metro Area, contact the skilled and proven white collar criminal defense team at Coxwell & Associates, PLLC at (601) 265-7766 for an immediate case consultation today.
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR WINS
-
$144 Million Death and punitive damages
-
$120 Million Injuries from dangerous drugs
-
$20.4 Million Fraud settlement that went to Mississippians
-
$2.3 Million Brain injury settlement
-
$2.1 Million Civil rights death
-
$1.6 Million Fraud settlement for Mississippians
Contact Us today
To Schedule A Consultation
-
“You were made to do what you do. Know that You make a difference in lives for the better.” - Will A.
-
“We are so appreciative for everything you've done for us. We don't know how we would've gotten through this without your help and generosity!” - N.B.
-
“My family and I will always be indebted to you and your staff.” - B.W.