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One of the Most Experienced

Investment Fraud, Securities Defense, and FINRA Arbitration Attorneys Nationwide

Attorney Pearce has over decades of first-hand experience with investment disputes in Florida, nationwide, and internationally. We are one of the most experienced FINRA Securities Arbitration Law Firms nationwide and have recovered more than $170 Million on behalf of our clients.

With over 40 Years of Personal Experience

$21,000,000 Final Judgment for Civil Theft
$8,500,000 Stockbroker Bond Fraud Settlement
$8,200,000 Stockbroker Margin Account Liquidation Settlement
$7,800,000 Stockbroker Option Fraud Settlement
$6,000,000 Stockbroker Bond & Bond Fund Fraud Settlement
$5,800,000 Arbitration Award for Stockbroker Fraud
$5,500,000 FINRA Arbitration Settlement
$4,300,000 Federal Court Class Action Settlement
$3,500,000 Florida State Court Settlement
$3,350,000 FINRA Arbitration Settlement
$3,200,000 FINRA Arbitration Award
$2,750,000 FINRA Arbitration Award

The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce P.A., represents clients on all sides of securities, commodities and investment fraud and other issues in a broad range of practice areas in courtroom litigation, arbitration, SEC defense, and mediation proceedings. Based out of offices in Boca Raton, Florida, stockbroker fraud attorney Robert Wayne Pearce and his team have handled hundreds of FINRA, AAA and JAMs securities arbitration and mediation cases for satisfied clients located not only in Florida but nationwide and throughout the world.

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OVER $170 MILLION RECOVERED FOR CLIENTS Contact Our Lawyers for Nationwide Help

We help Investors, Advisors, StockBrokers, and provide Regulatory Defense

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Meet Our Team

Some attorneys just work to live: we work -- for justice!

The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce has represented investors across the globe and throughout the United States. Our attorneys have recovered over $170 million for his investor clients in all types of stockbroker fraud and stockbroker misconduct cases.

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Robert Pearce

Founding Partner Over 40 years of Experience
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Adam Kara-Lopez

Associate Financial Advisor Turned Attorney
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Tamara Griffin

Florida Registered Paralegal Working with our firm since 2011
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Monica Duncan

Legal Assistant Working with our firm since 1996
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Diana Cooper

Bookkeeper Mr. Pearce's Bookkeeper since 1996

Hear From Our Clients

At The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., we believe the ultimate barometer of our success is surpassing the expectation of our clients.

The following clients have direct knowledge of our firm's processes from the inside and experienced our fierce advocacy.

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Hear From Our Clients

  • "Bob Pearce is the real-life Marvel Hero who fights for small investors against brokerage institutions who manage investors’ hard-earned money carelessly, and even worse, conduct fraud outright."

    Bob Pearce is the real-life Marvel Hero who fights for small investors against brokerage institutions who manage investors’ hard-earned money carelessly, and even worse, conduct fraud outright. For years, we were misled by a brokerage firm who told us they would correct the wrong or compensate us for their mistakes. Only after we started working with Bob, we realized how powerful and wonderful it is to have a top legal expert by your side. Bob is immensely detail oriented, knowledgeable, professional, and confident. We are more than happy with the outcome Bob achieved for us within just a few months. Thank you, Bob!

    - Q Wang -
  • “Robert Pearce is part of that unusual breed of lawyers that are able to create empathy with clients and thoroughly adopt their cause”

    No half efforts here. He and his group of professionals are outstanding strategists that can execute with precise fervor and unyielding determination. Theirs is a huge wave of facts, research, precedents and preparation, that has impressed me in its thoroughness and creativity, and most importantly with the results. No stone goes unturned and no effort is ever spared. In my book, he and they are those of a very rare kind that one wants to keep for a very long time.

    - Ramon Flores-Esteves -
  • “Just like the song from HAMILTON, it's so nice to have Bob Pearce on your side.”

    Just like the song from HAMILTON, it's so nice to have Bob Pearce on your side. He is the consumate plaintiff's lawyer: smart. dedicated, fully able to try a case but a great negotiator in a mediation. He did a wonderful job for us, fully supporting us through the process and more than holding his own against a large national law firm.

    - Maurice Z. -
  • "Mr. Pearce and his staff exceeded all of our expectations."

    Mr. Pearce and his staff exceeded all of our expectations. We were able to reach a settlement that was of our complete satisfaction, all within a very smooth, professional and efficient process. Mr. Pearce is now not only our lawyer but our family friend. We highly recommend him and his team!

    - Severiano L. -
  • "For the best fighting chance, Robert Pearce is the lawyer you want in your corner."

    This law firm is the real deal. We were so lucky that they took our case as they have so much experience in securities and all the wrongdoing that happens in these investment companies where they mislead you and your money (as in our case) into schemes that are not what you think they are. Mr. Robert Pearce is one of the best lawyers around, a truly professional who will fight for you and will tell you as it is all the time. We could not have gone thru this experience if it was not for all the advice, guidance and support he and all of his staff and associates brought to the game. For the best fighting chance, Robert Pearce is the lawyer you want in your corner.

    - Astrid M. -
  • "He never felt intimidated and his study of the case and perseverance prevailed at all times."

    Attorney Robert Pearce was our lawyer in a case against a Brokerage Firm and I'm witness to his ability and intelligence to deal with lawyers from the most prominent law firm in New York which was the key to recovering much of our losses cheered by their negligence. He never felt intimidated and his study of the case and perseverance prevailed at all times.

    - Jose A. C. -
  • "In the end, Bob and I had the last laugh when the arbitrators awarded me almost 6 million dollars."

    No lawyer except Bob said I had a chance of winning. When UBS Lawyers laughingly offered me zero to settle the dispute, Bob became even more determined to prove everybody wrong. Bob was extremely prepared, and always a step ahead of the opposing attorneys throughout the arbitration. In the end, Bob and I had the last laugh when the arbitrators awarded me almost 6 million dollars.

    - J. Blanco -
  • "Every meeting and phone call was made with dedication and desire to help our family every step of the way."

    Robert's team is excellent. They are very competitive in what they do and they are very responsible. Every meeting and phone call was made with dedication and desire to help our family every step of the way. Their professionalism, responsibility and empathy assured us that we were in good hands. Recommend to everyone.

    - Mayra A. -

Cases & Investigations

Ex-Centaurus Financial Broker Joseph Michael Todd Sued

The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. is currently representing a Client of Joseph Michael Todd who has filed an arbitration claim against his employer, Centaurus Financial, Inc. Joseph Michael Todd Formerly With Centaurus Financial, Inc. and Investors Capital Corp. Has Three (3) Customer Complaints For Alleged Broker Misconduct. IMPORTANT: We are providing information about our clients’ allegations and seeking information from other investors who did business with Joseph Michael Todd and had similar investments, a similar investment strategy, and a similar bad experience to help us win our clients’ case. Please contact us online via our contact form or by giving us a ring at (800) 732-2889. Update: SEC Files Suit Against Joseph Michael Todd The SEC finally filed suit against Joseph Michael Todd (“Todd”) engaging in a fraudulent scheme from at least August 2016 through at least November 2022, where he allegedly misappropriated at least $3 million from at least 20 customers of Centaurus Financial, LLC (“Centaurus”), a dually registered broker-dealer and investment adviser that employed Todd as a registered representative. Todd obtained investor funds through deceptive means by instructing his Centaurus customers to write checks payable to his entities Todd Financial Services, LLC (“TFS”) and/or TFS Insurance Services LLC (“TFS Insurance”) or to Todd himself by falsely assuring customers that he and his entities would invest their funds in various securities. Instead, Todd commingled investors’ funds and kept the money for his own personal use, spending it on lavish real estate, boating, hunting, casinos, and adult entertainment. Todd perpetuated the fraud by making material misrepresentations to customers regarding the use of their funds in meetings that took place in person, in phone conversations, and in documents that he prepared and provided to customers. The SEC accused Todd and his entities because of their conduct, Todd, TFS, and TFS Insurance knowingly or recklessly committed securities fraud. In violation of Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) [15 U.S.C. §§ 77e(a), 77e(c), and 77q(a)] and Todd, TFS, and TFS Insurance violated Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 78j(b)] and Rule 10b-5 thereunder [17 C.F.R. § 240.10b-5]. The SEC brought the lawsuit to prevent further harm to investors and to seek disgorgement, civil penalties, permanent injunctions, and conduct-based injunctions stemming from the Defendants’ wrongdoing, and a permanent officer-and-director bar against Todd. Joseph Michael Todd Was Terminated by Centaurus Financial, Inc. On July 21, 2022, Joseph Michael Todd was terminated by Centaurus Financial, Inc. for not cooperating with an ongoing investigation into whether Joseph Michael Todd violated firm policy and industry rules with respect to allegations of selling away and the receipt of customer funds. Our law firm was contacted by a customer of Joseph Michael Todd alleging misappropriation or theft of funds. We are currently investigating such claims and are accepting clients who were victims of Joseph Michael Todd’s alleged misconduct. Joseph Michael Todd was fired from Centaurus Financial in July 2022, according to FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Michael Todd was terminated from Centaurus Financial because of claims he sold investments not authorized by the company, a common practice known as “selling away.” Did Joseph Michael Todd Cause You Investment Losses? Joseph Michael Todd, also known as Michael Todd, Formerly With Centaurus Financial, Inc. and Investors Capital Corp. Has Three (3) Customer Complaints For Alleged Broker Misconduct. If you believe you have suffered investment losses resulting from the conduct of Joseph Michael Todd at Centaurus Financial and Investors Capital Corp. you can contact the securities attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. for a free consultation to discuss your rights. Joseph Michael Todd Customer Complaints Joseph Michael Todd has been the subject of three (3) customer complaints that we know about, one (1) of those complaints was filed in 2022 to recover investment losses. And One (1) of Joseph Michael Todd’s three (3) customer complaints were settled in favor of investors. However, one (1) of Joseph Michael Todd’s customer complaints was closed, and the customers have not taken any further action. There is currently one (1) pending customer complaint filed against Joseph Michael Todd’s former employer Centaurus Financial, Inc. for investment losses caused by alleged misconduct.  Allegations Against Joseph Michael Todd A sample of the allegations made in the FINRA reported arbitration claim settlements and/or pending complaints for investment losses are as follows:  We currently represent a Client of Joseph Michael Todd who have filed an arbitration claim against his employer, Centaurus Financial, Inc. A summary of the allegations made in the FINRA arbitration filed for investment losses realized by the Claimant were as follows: 1. Introduction Respondent Centaurus employed Joseph Michael Todd (hereafter referred to as either “Mike” or “Mr. Todd”) and held him out as registered representative, investment adviser, investment manager, financial adviser, and financial planner with special skills and expertise in the management of securities portfolios and financial, estate, retirement, and tax planning matters. Centaurus hired Mr. Todd after he was terminated by two prior broker-dealers for violations of industry rules, firm policies and procedures, including allegations of selling unapproved investments and misappropriation. It also permitted Mr. Todd to operate his Centaurus branch offices under the name “Todd Financial Services” as “a DBA for branding purposes.” The Respondent is being sued in its capacity as broker-dealer and investment adviser, investment portfolio manager, financial planner, and/or as an employer whose employees and agents, including, but not limited to, Mr. Todd, committed the acts and omissions which are the subject of this Statement of Claim.  Claimant is a 62-year-old single woman back working 3 months after she had retired and discovered that her Centaurus’ stockbroker and investment advisor Mr. Todd did the following: 1) Stole $425,000 of her funds that were supposed to have been invested in safe, liquid, fixed income securities for her retirement security and income; 2) Acted in his own “best interest” instead of Claimant’s “best interest” in soliciting her to sell $420,000 of her investment grade municipal bonds and reinvesting the sales proceeds in illiquid and high-risk...

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David Barnes of UBS Financial Services: Investor Complaints

DID DAVID RAY BARNES CAUSE YOU INVESTMENT LOSSES? David Barnes Of UBS Financial Services And Formerly With Credit Suisse Securities (USA) Has A Customer Complaint For Alleged Broker Misconduct Recent News: The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. Helps Investor Recover Investment Losses Caused by David Barnes The Claimant is a 73-year-old widow residing in Dallas, Texas. She was married until her husband passed away on March 30, 2016.  The Respondent, UBS Financial Services, Inc. (“UBS”), is a Delaware corporation with its principal headquarters in Weehawken, New Jersey.  The Respondent UBS employed David Barnes (“Barnes”) and held him out and other UBS employees on his team as investment advisers, investment managers, financial advisers, and financial planners with special skills and expertise in the management of securities portfolios and financial, estate, retirement, and tax planning matters. Barnes held several professional certifications which would indicate he knew or should have known his conduct in managing Claimants accounts was below the acceptable standard of care, namely: Chartered Financial Analyst (“CFA”), Certified Financial Planner (“CFP”), and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (“CAIA”). The claims in this arbitration included but were not limited to: (1) Barnes’ failure to employ modern portfolio techniques such as asset allocation and diversification to protect Claimants’ assets from unreasonable risk of loss beginning March 2019; (2) Barnes’ and others’ failure safeguard and protect Claimants’ assets from an unreasonable risk of loss in July 2019 and thereafter; (3) Barnes’ and others’ failure to perform their fiduciary and contractual duties to sell securities and reduce the debt promptly and in a manner to serve the best interest; (4) Barnes’ false and misleading Claimants about the performance of securities and accounts; (5) Barnes’ false and misleading statements about his investment strategy and availability of alternative strategies; (6) Barnes false and misleading Claimants about risk of continuing to “hold” an unsuitable, undiversified, and over-leveraged investment strategy in Claimants’ UBS managed accounts; (7) Barnes’ unsuitable “hold” recommendations in connection with the undiversified and over-leveraged securities accounts managed by Barnes on February 13, 2020 and thereafter; and (8) UBS’ and Barnes’ failure to refrain from self-dealing and conflicts of interest relating to the investment advice given regarding Claimants’ variable credit-lines and investment strategy recommendations. Obviously, the arbitrators thought that UBS’s David Barnes engaged in misconduct because after considering the pleadings, the testimony and evidence presented at the hearing, and any post-hearing submissions, the Panel decided in full and final resolution of the issues submitted for determination as follows: Respondent is liable for and shall pay to Claimant the sum of $380,158.00 in compensatory damages. Respondent is liable for and shall pay to Claimant interest on the above-stated sum at the rate of 5% per annum from August 9, 2022, through and including the date this Award is paid in full. Respondent is liable for and shall pay to Claimant the sum of $152,063.20 in attorneys’ fees pursuant to the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code. If you had a similar experience with David Barnes then you may want to consider contacting our law firm about the viability of your claims and ability to recover your investment losses.

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Broker C. Raymond Weldon Investigation & Customer Complaints

C. Raymond Weldon Of Independent Financial Group, LLC And Formerly With The Investment Center, Inc. and Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Has Six Customer Complaints For Alleged Broker Misconduct. C. Raymond Weldon has been the subject of at least six (6) customer complaints that we know about to recover investment losses. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. currently represent five of his customers in a FINRA arbitration claim against Weldon’s employers. IMPORTANT: We are providing information about our clients’ allegations and seeking information from other investors who did business with C. Raymond Weldon and had similar investments, a similar investment strategy, and a similar bad experience to help us win our clients’ case. Please contact us online via our contact form or by giving us a ring at (800) 732-2889. Raymond Weldon Customer Complaints Weldon has been the subject of at least six (6) customer complaints that we know about to recover investment losses. We currently represent five of his customers against Weldon’s employers. A summary of the allegations made in the FINRA arbitration filed for investment losses realized by five of Weldon’s clients were as follows: 1. Introduction Claimants filed an arbitration claim against Respondents Cetera Advisors Networks, LLC (“CAN”), The Investment center, Inc. (“TIC”), and (“IFG”) for their registered representative C. Raymond Weldon (“Weldon”) failure to act in Claimants’ “best interest,” and his unsuitable recommendations, misrepresentations, misleading statements, acts, and omissions. Weldon had written discretionary authority to manage Claimants’ accounts and failed to do so. Respondents CAN and TIC formerly employed and IFG who currently employs Weldon held him out and other employees on his team as stockbrokers, investment advisers, investment managers, financial advisers, and financial planners with special skills and expertise in the management of securities portfolios and financial, estate, retirement, and tax planning matters. Weldon was a Chartered Financial Consultant, a professional with a certification which would indicate Respondents and Weldon knew or should have known his mismanagement Claimants’ accounts was in breach of his fiduciary duties and below the acceptable standard of care of professionals like him.  2. THE RELEVANT FACTS All Claimants, except one Claimant’s wife, worked together. They were introduced to Weldon as an investment manager who successfully managed securities brokerage accounts for a local synagogue and many of its members. With one limited exception, none of the Claimants had any securities brokerage accounts or experience investing in the stock or bond markets before they met Weldon. They were all interested in saving for retirement and he solicited them to establish an investment advisory and brokerage relationship for that purpose. Claimants Richard, Anthony, Alex, Chris, and, later on, Jessica, opened small, unleveraged, and well diversified mutual fund investment accounts, which Weldon managed for a fee on an annualized basis (the “ProFunds Accounts”). The Cetera Advisor Networks, LLC (“CAN”) Accounts In or about October 2020, Weldon boasted about his performance in managing the ProFunds Accounts and introduced them to another type of customized stock brokerage account he managed for synagogue members. He encouraged Claimants to open additional accounts with him to invest in the stock market for their retirement (the “CAN Accounts”). Weldon met with Claimants and showed them documents related to his performance managing other clients’ accounts. He spoke with the other Claimants over the telephone about his performance record. He provided little detail about his management style other than he had a “track record” for substantially growing the assets deposited in his clients’ securities brokerage accounts and preserving assets for their retirement. Weldon claimed that his pro-active management style allowed him to maximize growth in the up markets and minimize losses in down markets. There was no discussion with them about the true nature, mechanics, or risks of the highly leveraged and overly concentrated investment strategy he deployed in the technology sector of the stock market.  The individual Claimants gathered assets from savings, bonuses, and/or refinanced real estate to open and deposit cash in their CAN Accounts. They each deposited substantial amount of money in each of their accounts in December of that year and the following year for Weldon to manage for their retirement. The Claimants’ employer was the last to open an account and deposit funds it had reserved for working capital in January 2021. Weldon prepared and all the Claimants signed management agreements and gave Weldon the authority to manage their accounts on margin without any prior consultation about the investments being made or strategy deployed and paid him a management fee to do so. Claimants did not realize Weldon’s papers also allowed Respondents to get paid commissions on each transaction in their accounts. Weldon also prepared and completed new account opening documents and agreements for managed accounts with false and/or misleading information to suit his strategy and his own “best interest,” as opposed to Claimants. For example, he wrote that one Claimant that was a construction company had over 20 years’ experience investing in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds when he knew it did not even exist until 2013 and never had any securities brokerage accounts. Further, Weldon knew that the company was depositing working capital which needed to be conservatively invested in non-volatile liquid investments and yet he falsely identified the company’s investment objective as “aggressive growth” and risk tolerance as “significant” meaning “an investor who seeks maximum return and accepts the risk of significant volatility and decreases in the value of a portfolio.” According to Weldon, the company had no need for liquidity, which was untrue. These were not clerical errors; rather, they were intentional mischaracterizations by Weldon to slip under the Compliance Department’s radar and manage the accounts in a speculative manner against Claimants’ instructions.  Weldon regularly encouraged Claimants to bring in more money for him to manage. Why? Because it was in his “best interest,” not the Claimants. The greater the total account market value, the greater the management fees which were based upon assets under management. The more money Claimants deposited, the more transactions and more commissions, Respondents and he received, in addition...

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Investment & Securities Lawyers

We are a Nationally Recognized Securities Law Firm

With a Successful Track Record for Recovery of Investment Losses

Attorney Pearce is a well-respected advocate for investors throughout the legal community, known as a fierce litigator and tireless not only in Boca Raton but throughout Florida and across the nation. Read his Investors Rights Blog and discover the breadth of his knowledge that can only be gained from over 40 years of legal experience for yourself. As one of the most experienced FINRA arbitration lawyers, Mr. Pearce knows all of the available options for your case and will pursue them vigorously to secure the best possible outcome for you and your stockbroker fraud and stockbroker misconduct case. He has earned a peer rating of AV Preeminent * through the Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating process, the highest available rating through that program.

Mr. Pearce is one of Thomson Reuters Florida Super Lawyers ** for Securities Litigation (Top 5). Read the feature article about him in the Florida 2014 Super Lawyers magazine entitled: “No Excuses – How Robert Wayne Pearce Stared Down Personal Disaster”.

During his more than 40 years of experience practicing securities and commodities law, he has won numerous million-dollar awards and settlements for his clients which has earned him recognition for his success by The Million Dollar Advocates Forum and The Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum as one of the Top Trial Lawyers in America TM***.

By hiring Robert Wayne Pearce, an attorney with over 40 years of experience practicing in the area of securities, commodities and investment fraud on both sides of the table in arbitrations and courtroom litigation, you will clearly see his legal experience and knowledge in action. Having a fierce litigator and tireless advocate of your rights, an attorney who will quickly identify both the strengths and the weaknesses of your case will surely increase the likelihood of winning your case.

Legal Blog

FINRA Rule 8210 Letter: Everything You Need to Know

If you have landed on this article, most likely because you probably just received a letter from FINRA via certified mail that states, “You are notified that the FINRA office is conducting an inquiry to determine whether violations of the federal securities laws or FINRA, New York Stock Exchange, MSRB rules, have occurred.” In the following paragraph, you’re being urged to submit a number of papers, respond to a number of queries, and/or provide on-the-record testimony to FINRA employees as required by FINRA rule 8210. The chances are you’ve never received or seen one of these letters before, and it can be very intimidating and cause a lot of anxiety. Robert W. Pearce, a nationwide regulatory defense lawyer with a practice that includes representation of broker-dealers and financial advisors answers one of the more frequently asked questions: What is a FINRA 8210 letter? What is a FINRA Rule 8210 Letter? Receiving a Rule 8210 letter implies that FINRA is seeking documents, information, or testimony from you regarding an investigation of a broker-dealer or a person who is registered or associated with a broker-dealer. Whether or not you are a person of investigation is uncertain. Need Legal Help? Let’s Talk. or, give us a ring at 800-732-2889. At this point, it would be a good idea to contact a lawyer who specializes in securities law and is familiar with FINRA regulations. Independent of whether you believe you are the subject of investigation, you are obligated to respond. Failure to do so can have dire consequences. In the case that you are the individual under investigation, you will be glad that you spoke with an attorney now rather than later. An attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process and help guide you in providing the appropriate information and documents to FINRA investigators. What is a FINRA 8210 Request? FINRA Rule 8210 Provision of Information and Testimony and Inspection and Copying of Books gives FINRA the authority to request and examine and make copies of the books, records, and accounts of a member firm related to any matter being investigated, complained about, examined, or processed. In addition, this rule can seek and require testimony from any person associated with the member firm and require production of documents relating to FINRA-regulated activities. FINRA Rule 8210 is an important tool for ensuring compliance in the securities industry. It allows FINRA to keep a vigilant watch over potential violations and misconduct, ultimately providing customer protection and investor confidence. This request applies to firms as well as registered brokers, registered representatives, and other associated persons of the firm. FINRA may direct its 8210 requests to any person who is a member or associated with a member firm, such as officers, directors, employees, shareholders, and partners. As a registered representative, it is important to understand the implications of a FINRA 8210 request. These are rules that you choose to abide by when you become a part of the securities industry and registered with FINRA. A failure to comply with FINRA Rule 8210 could result in disciplinary action by FINRA. What Happens with the Information that I Provide to FINRA? The information obtained by FINRA through its Rule 8210 request can be used in a variety of ways, including enforcement investigations and proceedings. It also may be used to assess whether disciplinary action is necessary, as well as for market surveillance purposes. The information that FINRA obtains can be shared with other regulatory organizations, law enforcement, and government agencies. The information may also be disclosed by way of a subpoena in civil litigation. Responding to a FINRA Rule 8210 letter can be intimidating. There are a lot of things to consider and evaluate carefully before responding. When faced with a FINRA 8210 letter, it is in your best interest to seek a securities lawyer who is familiar with FINRA regulations to help you navigate the process. An experienced securities attorney will provide guidance and advice to ensure your rights are protected throughout the investigation. Do I Have to Respond to a FINRA Rule 8210 Letter? Yes, you must respond to the letter and provide any requested documents or on-the-record testimony. The consequences of not responding can be serious, including suspension or permanent bar from the securities industry. Do not jeopardize your career by failing to respond in a timely manner. You may not even be the target of the investigation, but your cooperation will still be essential in order to provide information that may help FINRA uncover any violations of the federal securities laws. It can be difficult to comprehend exactly what is expected from you when you receive a FINRA rule 8210 notice. An experienced FINRA defense attorney can answer your questions and guide you through the process so you understand your rights and responsibilities. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. have over 40 years of experience defending FINRA inquiries, investigations and disciplinary proceedings. Contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss how we can help you respond to the FINRA 8210 letter. What are the Consequences of Not Responding to a FINRA Rule 8210 Letter? The consequences of not responding to a FINRA Rule 8210 letter are serious. And, more often than not, if the individual does not comply with this information request, the individual will be barred from the securities industry. If a registered broker or registered representative does not comply with FINRA Rule 8210 request, they will no longer be able to be associated with a member firm. If a registered firm does not comply with FINRA Rule 8210 request, then normally that firm is going to be expelled from the securities industry. The consequences are steep, and you should strongly consider the options available in responding to the FINRA Rule 8210 letter. FINRA has jurisdiction over all FINRA-registered firms, brokers, and associated persons. They can take disciplinary action against those who do not comply with the rules set forth in FINRA Rule 8210. If you are currently registered with a firm or you have been currently registered with a firm in the past 2...

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Do You Need a Florida Stockbroker & Investment Fraud Lawyer?

The Florida Stockbroker & Investment Fraud Lawyers at Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. have been helping investors recoup their losses incurred due to unethical and illegal stockbroker activity for over 40 years. As an investor in Florida, you have the right to expect that your stockbroker or investment advisor will always act in your best interests. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. is dedicated to representing investors nationwide who have been the victims of stockbroker fraud, investment fraud, and misconduct by broker-dealers. Our Florida stockbroker & investment fraud lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for our clients through securities arbitration and litigation. If you have suffered investment losses, we can help. Contact us today at (800) 732-2889 or fill out one of our short contact forms. What is Investment Fraud? When an entity, such as a brokerage firm, takes your money with the promise of investing it and then uses it for other purposes, you have been the victim of investment fraud. Investment fraud scams are frequently characterized by promises of guaranteed profits and low- to no-risk investments. Chances are if it looks too good to be true, it might be. Is Stockbroker Fraud Different from Investment Fraud? Stockbroker fraud is a type of investment fraud that occurs when your stockbroker or other financial professional makes false or misleading statements to you in order to sell you securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Stockbroker fraud is a form of investment fraud, but not all investment fraud is stockbroker fraud. IMPORTANT: If you are a victim of stockbroker or investment fraud, you may have a limited time to take action. The Florida stockbroker & investment fraud lawyers at The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. can help you recover your losses and hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today at (800) 732-2889. Recognizing the Signs That You May Be the Victim of Investment Fraud There are several signs that may indicate that you have been the victim of investment fraud. If you have experienced any of the following, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible: The hardest part of investment fraud is often recognizing that it has occurred. Many times, people do not realize they have been the victim of fraud until they suffer a significant loss. Do Not Delay – Time May Be Running Out The statute of limitations, or the time you have to take legal action, may be shorter than you think. If you believe that you have been the victim of stockbroker fraud or investment fraud, contact an investment fraud attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options and to protect your rights. What is the Statute of Limitations for Investment Fraud in Florida? In the state of Florida, there are two separate timelines for investment fraud in violation of the Florida securities statutes: a two-year (2) statute of limitations and a five-year (5) statute of repose. The two-year statute of limitations for investment fraud in Florida begins to run on the day that you discover or reasonably should have discovered, the fraud. The five-year statute of repose for investment fraud in Florida begins to run on the day that the fraudulent activity occurred, regardless of when you actually discovered it. This means that if more than five years have passed since the fraudulent act occurred, you will not be able to bring a claim, even if you only recently discovered the fraud. There are other claims for common law fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract with different statutes of limitation that may be longer under the facts of your case. For this reason, it is important to contact an experienced Florida investment fraud attorney as soon as possible if you believe that you may have been the victim of investment fraud. Do You Need to Hire an Investment Fraud Lawyer “Near Me”? Since securities are primarily a federally regulated industry, it is not necessary to hire a local Florida investment fraud lawyer. It is still important to find an attorney with experience handling investment fraud cases in Florida, as they will be familiar with the state’s securities laws. These state laws, also known as Blue Sky Laws, may differ from federal securities laws and can potentially provide additional protections for investors. Note: When hiring an investment fraud attorney, it is important to choose one who regularly practices in the field of securities law and arbitration. Securities law is a complex and ever-changing area of law, so you want to be sure that your attorney is up-to-date on the latest legal developments. Are You Dealing with Investment Fraud in Florida? Contact our Florida investment fraud lawyers at the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. today at (800) 732-2889. We represent investors nationwide who have been the victims of stockbroker fraud, investment fraud, and broker-dealer misconduct. We Have a History of Helping Investors Recover Their Losses The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. has helped investors recover their losses in securities arbitration and litigation for over 40 years. We are one of the most experienced FINRA arbitration law firms in the country and have recovered more than $170 million on behalf of our clients. In fact, we have recovered funds for over 99% of his investor clients through various avenues of recovery, including settlements, arbitrations, and court litigation.  Attorney Pearce is a well-respected advocate for investors throughout the legal community, known as a fierce litigator throughout Florida and across the country. Some of our past results include: $21,041,285 FEDERAL COURT FINAL JUDGMENT In 2010, Robert Pearce won a case in federal court for $21,041,285. The final judgment was entered against the defendant for fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, and civil theft pursuant to Florida Statutes Sections 812.014 and 772.11. $7,840,000 FINRA ARBITRATION SETTLEMENT In this FINRA arbitration, Robert Pearce effectuated the resolution of the case through mediation on the eve of trial. This case involved a complex options trading strategy in the oil and gas sector against one of the largest Midwest broker-dealers in the...

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How to Handle an SEC Subpoena: Step-by-Step

No one ever wants to receive an SEC subpoena, but when you do it is important to take action immediately so as to protect your future. In this article we will review what an SEC investigation subpoena is, the different types of SEC subpoenas you can receive, and what to do, step-by-step, if you receive an SEC investigatory subpoena. What is an SEC Subpoena? An SEC subpoena is a legal order for recorded testimony that is issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with one of its investigations. The subpoena requests documents, data, or both which are relevant to an ongoing investigation. Investment Losses? Let’s Talk. or, give us a ring at 800-732-2889. Note: If you get served with an SEC subpoena, it means you’re likely under suspicion of committing or witness to securities fraud even though the SEC will tell you not to conclude anything from the fact you were served with a subpoena. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with a SEC defense lawyer. SEC Subpoena Power The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing securities laws, proposing new securities rules, and regulating the securities industry. The SEC has the power to investigate almost any company or individual for securities fraud. The SEC is primarily interested in issues involving potential stock manipulation, false or misleading statements in offering documents, insider trading, and other areas where investors are being cheated out of money. The staff of the SEC has subpoena power which they can use to compel individuals and companies under investigation to produce requested documents and/or testify at hearings under oath about their involvement with certain companies or businesses. If you receive an SEC subpoena, your life could be turned upside down until the issue is resolved. There are two types of SEC subpoenas: Subpoena ad testificandum: This subpoena compels the person to whom it is addressed to appear at a specific time and place and testify under oath or affirmation. Subpoena duces tecum: This subpoena compels the person to whom it is addressed to produce documents in his possession or control, either at a designated location or before the person who signed the subpoena. What happens when you get an SEC Subpoena?  When you get served with an SEC subpoena, it means that your records are being requested by a federal agency for an investigation. Generally, you’ll be told that you have 30 days from the date of service of this document to provide all records related to whatever it’s requesting. IMPORTANT: You will likely have to appear in front of a SEC enforcement official who may ask you questions under oath and subject to the penalty of perjury and/or making false statements to a government official. Do not lie about not having any records because if they come back and say you lied about having them, you could be charged with obstruction of justice. What should I do if I get an SEC Subpoena? Unfortunately, investigations by the SEC does happen from time to time. If you receive an SEC subpoena, it’s important to act quickly and be proactive. Below are the steps to take after receiving a subpoena from the SEC: Step 1: Consult a SEC defense lawyer who is experienced with SEC subpoenas immediately. Your lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and represent you during the investigation. An attorney can determine how to respond to your subpoena, what information you should immediately turn over, and help you avoid making any mistakes that could result in additional scrutiny or legal consequences. Step 2: Know your rights under the concept of “privileged” information. Under the attorney-client privilege, for example, you do not have to provide anything to the SEC if it would be between you and your lawyer. Step 3: Read the terms of the subpoena thoroughly. Make sure you understand them and determine what information must be turned over. If your subpoena requests specific documents, the SEC will likely want to review all of those documents. Step 4: Respond to the subpoena as soon as possible with an attorney by your side. Returning things too quickly without consulting a lawyer first could look bad for you during the rest of the investigation process. And if they ask for something that is difficult or unrealistic to produce, you can let them know that upon receiving their request. Some items may take longer than 30 days to find/produce depending on how easy it is for you to obtain (i.e., if there are thousands of emails it could take some time). Step 5: Keep a detailed record of all aspects of the process, including any contact or communication with an SEC investigator(s) so that you can protect yourself down the road with evidence in case there is any uncertainty about what happened during the investigation process. Step 6: Keep the details of your case confidential with yourself and your legal representation. Do not discuss or share information about your case with anyone who isn’t an attorney because you do not want to risk incriminating yourself. Step 7: Be proactive and do not engage in any activity that could be considered obstruction of justice, such as lying or concealing information. What types of records might the SEC subpoena? The Commission may subpoena documents related to financial transactions (including transfers of money between accounts), communications (including e-mails), photographs, videos, and other data like employment history or company policies/employee handbooks/training manuals. For example, the SEC may subpoena communications related to specific stock sales or actions taken during an acquisition. Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced SEC Defense Attorney If you are served with an SEC subpoena, you should promptly contact a lawyer experienced in representing parties dealing with federal investigations to guide you through how to handle your case and protect yourself. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. has over 40 years of experience dealing with the SEC subpoenas and enforcement actions. Our attorneys can help you determine what information needs to be turned over, provide advice on how to handle the...

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