Chicago Investment Fraud Lawyer, Securities Law Firm, FINRA & Broker Disputes Attorney
Chicago investors who have experienced losses from unsuitable investments, broker misconduct, or financial fraud can pursue recovery with the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. Our firm represents individuals and institutions across the Chicago area in securities disputes involving FINRA arbitration, regulatory matters, and civil claims against financial advisors and brokerage firms.
The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. applies detailed investigative techniques to examine account statements, disclosure documents, and trading activity. We can construct legally sound claims based on regulatory violations, state securities laws, and fiduciary duty breaches to help recover client losses.
How Our Investment Fraud Lawyers Can Help Chicago Investors
Chicago’s position as a major financial center brings sophisticated investment opportunities—and equally sophisticated fraud schemes. Our attorneys can investigate misconduct, navigate Illinois regulations, and pursue recovery through arbitration or litigation.
Unsuitable Investment Recommendations
FINRA Rule 2111 requires brokers to recommend investments that align with your financial situation and goals. Our attorneys can review your account documentation and market conditions to demonstrate when a broker violated this suitability standard.
Misrepresentation and Omission
The Illinois Securities Law of 1953 (815 ILCS 5/) prohibits false statements and material omissions in connection with securities transactions. We can file claims to seek rescission or damages when advisors provide misleading information.
Churning and Excessive Trading
Commission-driven trading that generates fees rather than returns violates FINRA’s quantitative-suitability requirements. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. can analyze trading patterns to prove excessive turnover in your account.
Margin Abuse and Forced Liquidation
FINRA Rule 4210 establishes margin requirements that protect investors. When brokers fail to provide proper disclosures or execute untimely liquidations, we can use account analytics to calculate your losses and pursue recovery.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Investment advisors owe clients a fiduciary duty to act in their best interests. Our lawyers can pursue claims when advisors prioritize their own compensation over client welfare or fail to disclose conflicts of interest.
Overconcentration in Single Securities
Holding excessive positions in one stock or sector contradicts prudent diversification principles. We can compare your portfolio allocation to industry benchmarks to establish unsuitable concentration claims.
Failure to Supervise
FINRA Rule 3110 requires firms to maintain adequate supervisory systems. When Chicago brokerage branches ignore warning signs of misconduct, we can hold the firm accountable—not just the individual advisor.
Ponzi Schemes and Fraudulent Investment Programs
The Illinois Securities Department investigates fraudulent investment schemes under state law. Our team can trace fund movements, coordinate with regulators, and work to recover assets for defrauded investors.
Elder Financial Exploitation
Illinois law provides specific protections for senior investors under the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act (320 ILCS 20/). We can work with families to pursue elder financial abuse claims and recover misappropriated funds.
Unregistered Securities Sales
Offering unregistered securities in Illinois violates state registration requirements. Our lawyers can seek rescission or statutory damages when advisors sell unregistered crypto assets, private placements, or other non-compliant investments.
Additional Violations We Handle
Our Chicago investment fraud attorneys also address 401(k) rollover misconduct, mutual fund breakpoint violations, excessive bond markups, sale of non-approved structured products, and pump-and-dump manipulation schemes.
Acting Within Illinois Time Limits
Illinois securities fraud claims must be filed within specific timeframes. The statute of limitations typically requires action within three years of discovering the fraud. FINRA’s eligibility rule bars claims filed more than six years after the misconduct occurred. Contact our attorneys promptly to preserve your recovery rights.
A Customized Approach for Your Case
Every investment fraud case presents unique circumstances. Our attorneys investigate the specific details of your situation and develop a recovery strategy designed for your needs. With extensive knowledge of securities regulations, we’re committed to pursuing the strongest possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of investment fraud cases do you handle in Chicago?
We handle cases involving unsuitable recommendations, churning, unauthorized trading, Ponzi schemes, margin abuse, failure to supervise, misrepresentation, elder financial exploitation, and unregistered securities sales. Our attorneys represent Chicago investors in FINRA arbitration, regulatory proceedings, and civil litigation.
How much does it cost to hire an investment fraud attorney?
The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. typically works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and legal fees are only collected if we recover compensation for you. We also offer hourly and alternative fee arrangements depending on your case. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss fee options.
How long do I have to file a claim for investment losses?
Illinois securities fraud claims generally must be filed within three years of discovering the fraud. FINRA arbitration claims must be filed within six years of the event that caused your losses. Acting quickly can protect your right to recovery, so contact our firm as soon as you suspect misconduct.
Contact Our Chicago Investment Fraud Lawyers
Don’t let securities fraud jeopardize your financial security. Attorney Robert Wayne Pearce and our legal team are ready to help you pursue recovery of your losses.
Call our investment fraud attorneys at (800) 732-2889 or complete the free consultation form to speak with our team. There’s no obligation, and we maintain strict confidentiality for all inquiries.