Minnesota investment fraud attorney Robert Wayne Pearce at the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce P.A., has extensive experience representing investors and organizations in securities arbitrations through FINRA in the State of Minnesota.

Have you fallen victim to investment fraud? Are you looking for an experienced attorney to help you fight for the compensation you deserve?

You need an investment fraud lawyer who is dedicated to protecting your rights as a Minnesota-based investor.

For over 40 years we have encountered hundreds of victims of investment fraud. We understand the frustration and stress that comes with being a victim of investment fraud, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process and hold those responsible accountable.

Since 1980, we have been devoted to helping investors and have successfully recovered over $170 million in settlements and verdicts on their behalf. View client testimonials here. We have experience handling all types of securities fraud cases and utilize all available legal avenues from the federal level to Minnesota law as it applies to investment fraud cases. Don’t let investment fraud ruin your financial future – contact the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. today via our quick-response form, or call (800) 732-2889.

Definition of Investment Fraud and Securities Fraud

Investment fraud is a term sometimes used interchangeably with securities fraud, and it involves using deceptive practices, including false or misleading information, to manipulate investors into making investment decisions that result in substantial losses. Dishonest brokers may even resort to outright theft of investor’s funds or securities. 

All forms of investment fraud are designed to trick investors into making decisions that financially benefit the fraudster. This can involve tactics such as false and misleading statements, unauthorized trading, churning, Ponzi schemes, pump-and-dump schemes, or selling securities that are not registered. Securities fraud, an unlawful or unethical act, is subject to legal penalties.

“Did you know that in the first quarter of 2023, The FTC has reported nearly 50,000 individual cases of investor fraud with an estimated $1.9 Billion in total losses?”

Brokers, broker-dealers, and investment advisors frequently promote novel and sophisticated investment options to secure high commissions and profits, without considering if their clients can withstand potential financial setbacks. These intricate investment solutions and tactics, appropriate for just a select group of investors open to considerable risks, are occasionally employed to conceal excessive trading and risks in accounts.

Example Scenario: An investor is persuaded by their broker to put a large portion of their retirement savings into a high-risk, illiquid investment. The broker downplays the risks, misrepresents the potential returns, and pressures the investor to make a quick decision. The investment ultimately fails, leading to significant losses for the investor.

Upon initially engaging your broker-dealer, you probably expected them to prioritize your interests. However, numerous brokers and financial advisors fail to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities or even engage in outright securities fraud. They may provide misleading information about investments, hide associated risks, partake in excessive trading (known as churning) to rack up commissions, or impose hidden fees, leading to overcharging.

Investment Losses? We Can Help

Discuss your legal options with an attorney at The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A.

Get A Free Consultation

or, give us a ring at (800) 732-2889.

Robert Pearce

Minnesota and Federal Laws That Protect Investors

Minnesota investors benefit from a robust framework of protections designed to ensure fair and transparent markets. These safeguards include:

  • Key Laws and Regulations
    • Minnesota Securities Act: The cornerstone of Minnesota investor protection, this law combats fraud, mandates the registration of most securities, and provides avenues for investors to seek recourse if they’ve been misled.
    • Minnesota Business Corporation Act: This outlines shareholder rights and the responsibilities of company leaders, aiming to ensure that corporations act in the shareholders’ best interests.
    • Minnesota Deceptive Trade Practices Act: This broad law empowers investors to take action against unfair or deceptive investment practices.
  • Governing Agencies
    • Minnesota Dept. of Commerce: This agency is the primary watchdog for the Minnesota securities industry. They register offerings, license brokers, investigate misconduct, and educate investors about their rights.
    • Office of the Minnesota Attorney General (Consumer Protection Division): Focused on consumer protection, this office can intervene in cases of investment fraud or other deceptive practices that harm Minnesota investors.
  • National Regulatory Bodies
    • FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority): FINRA oversees all broker-dealers in the US, setting ethical standards, enforcing securities laws, and providing investor education resources. They work alongside the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) for broad investor protection.

Useful Resources

How our Minnesota Securities Law Attorneys Can Help You

Indeed, experiencing losses is an inherent aspect of investing, but brokers who engage in fraudulent activities can be held accountable under the law. If you suspect that you’ve fallen prey to investment fraud, reaching out to a lawyer specialized in investment fraud cases is crucial. Additionally, notifying regulatory organizations such as the SEC or FINRA may be necessary to address potential issues like market manipulation or insider trading.

The sooner you act, the greater your chances of recovering compensation. At the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., we have helped countless investors recover their losses due to investment fraud. We will thoroughly investigate your case, uncovering any misrepresentation or fraudulent activity, and fight to get you justice and the compensation you deserve.

If you have lost money due to negligence or fraud by a stockbroker or advisor, the easiest way to know if you have a case is to call our office at 800-732-2889. Here’s how our knowledgeable and experienced investment fraud law firm can advocate for you:

  • Represent & Advise: We’ll stand as your legal representative, advising you on your rights and options throughout the process.
  • Investigate & Analyze: We’ll thoroughly investigate your case, meticulously analyzing financial documents and potential fraudulent schemes to uncover evidence of wrongdoing.
  • Identify Liable Parties: We’ll work strategically to identify all potentially liable parties, including brokers, financial advisors, and financial institutions.
  • File Complaints & Lawsuits: We’ll file formal complaints with regulatory agencies (such as the SEC or FINRA) and, when necessary, initiate lawsuits to protect your interests.
  • Litigate & Negotiate: We are skilled litigators ready to fight aggressively for you in court or arbitration. Additionally, we’ll negotiate tirelessly to secure the most favorable settlement possible.
  • Recover Losses: Our ultimate goal is to recover your financial losses and protect you from further harm. We are results-driven and committed to achieving the maximum financial recovery you deserve.

Can I Recover my Investment Losses?

In order to recover your investment losses, you must document your case and prove that your broker-dealer or financial advisor violated statutes, rules, and regulations and breached their fiduciary duty to you as an investor.

In most cases, this means filing a FINRA arbitration claim against the broker-dealer and/or representative.

The majority of securities fraud cases are handled by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) rather than being brought to the court system.

FINRA arbitration is a streamlined, cost-effective way to resolve disputes between investors and their brokers without going to court – it also allows you to collect punitive damages, which are not available in civil court.

As an investor, you have certain rights that must be respected and protected.

We’re currently investigating several financial firms and stockbrokers who may have been the subject of customer complaints, may be facing legal action, and who may have acted unethically and committed fraud in Minnesota, including:

Click Here to see more

Some of our Lawyer’s Success Stories Include: 

FINRA ARBITRATION AWARD $3,266,200

Case No. 90-01044

Jack Friedlander, et al. v. Margaretten Securities

This arbitration involved misrepresentations and unsuitable recommendations that Claimants invest in complex structured products consisting of stripped coupon mortgage-backed securities and pass through certificates.  The Claimants were awarded punitive damages and attorney fees and expenses.

FINRA ARBITRATION AWARD $2,752,049

Case No. 10-03554

College Health and Investment, Ltd. v Wells Fargo Advisors LLC

This FINRA Arbitration by College Health against Wells Fargo Advisors followed a Federal court proceeding for aiding and abetting the defendant in that case in the theft of funds from the family holding company’s brokerage account at the firm.

FINRA ARBITRATION SETTLEMENT $2,500,000

This FINRA Arbitration involved Puerto Rico investors who claimed their Puerto Rico broker-dealer overconcentrated their accounts in Puerto Rico municipal bonds and further made an unsuitable recommendation to “hold” those positions when it knew market conditions were perilous.  The case settled in 2019.

FINRA ARBITRATION AWARD $2,554,896

Case Number [REDACTED]

[REDACTED] et al. v. [REDACTED] et al.

In April 2015, Mr. [REDACTED] became an investment advisor with discretionary authority over multiple accounts for his ex-wife, [REDACTED]. He immediately engaged in a highly leveraged overly concentrated and therefore unsuitable investment strategy which resulted in [REDACTED] losing millions of dollars in several months. The claims in this FINRA Arbitration were settled against two of the Respondents and went to hearing with the third Respondent, [REDACTED]. In September 2021, after 5 days of hearings, the arbitrators awarded Mrs. [REDACTED] $2,554,896.

Did You Know . . . Investment Fraud Attorney Robert Pearce Has Single-Handedly Collected Over $170 Million On Behalf of His Clients

In the last 20 years alone, Robert Pearce has recovered over $170 million for his investor clients. In fact, he has recovered funds for over 99% of his investor clients through various avenues of recovery, including settlements, arbitrations, and court litigation. 

No investment fraud firm can ever guarantee the same or similar results in any given case. However, when you hire the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., you can sleep well knowing you are in qualified and capable hands. Attorney Robert Pearce has represented hundreds of investors over his 40 year career and in the last 20 years alone recovered over $170 million for his investor clients.

Robert Pearce will fight for your rights day in and day out to get you the recovery you are entitled to.

What Can an Investment Fraud Lawyer Do for Investors?

What Can an Investment Fraud Lawyer Do for Investors?

investment fraud lawyers

An investment fraud lawyer helps investors recover investment losses that they lost due to a financial advisor or broker who did not act in their best interest. Typically, the lawyer will help the investor recover their losses through a process called FINRA arbitration.

Investment Losses? Let’s talk.

or, give us a ring at 800-732-2889.

Client Testimonials

Good
Based on 40 reviews
Barbara Lowe
Barbara Lowe
2021-08-22
I greatly appreciate the introduction to Bob Pearce. Exceptional in all respects, his experience and expertise along with Bob’s genuine goal to succeed on my behalf was extraordinary. If there was a scale from one to ten… he would no doubt rate a TEN from me. Extremely satisfied and highly recommend! Sincerest regards. BL
Franklyn Clarke
Franklyn Clarke
2021-06-11
If you are looking for an attorney who is not intimidated by the big name firms, I highly recommend Robert W Pearce. From start to finish, he and his team took control of the case and only got me involved when absolutely necessary. The frivolous complaints were removed from my file.
Kathi Carlson
Kathi Carlson
2021-04-28
Robert Pearce has vast knowledge and experience in this specialized field of law. I highly recommend this true professional!
Mi Di
Mi Di
2021-04-14
Mr. Pearce efficiently and professionally solved my registration issues with the Florida Office of Financial Regulation.

What is the Cost to Hire a Securities Attorney?

Usually, the first meeting with a securities lawyer doesn’t cost anything. In this meeting, the attorney will evaluate your situation and provide an estimate of the legal costs involved. Should you choose to proceed, you’ll likely be asked to enter into a contingency fee agreement. This agreement stipulates that your payment to the lawyer is contingent on their success in securing a financial recovery for you. If the lawyer doesn’t manage to win your case, you won’t have to pay any legal fees.

What Are the Statute of Limitations?

In investment fraud cases, acting swiftly is crucial due to the statutes of limitations imposed by both Minnesota and federal law, which establish the deadlines for submitting legal claims. In Minnesota, the timeframe for filing fraud claims is usually six years from the discovery of the fraud. On the federal level, the deadline for securities fraud claims is often five years from the violation date or two years from when the fraud could reasonably have been discovered. Consulting an attorney promptly is vital to ensure your claim is filed within the required time limits.

Types of Investment and Securities Fraud Cases We Can Help Represent You With

There are a variety of investment fraud tactics that unscrupulous brokers and advisors may use.

Our firm has represented investors who have fallen victim to a wide range of investment fraud tactics, including:

  • Unsuitable Investments: Recommendations not aligned with the investor’s needs.
  • Forced liquidation (forced selling): Broker sold without warning client or advising on margin calls.
  • Ponzi Scheme Fraud: Fraudulent investment operation promising high returns.
  • Excessive Trading (Churning): Excessive transactions to generate advisor commissions.
  • Misrepresentation & Omission: Deceptive or misleading information about investments.
  • Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Prioritizing advisor interests over the client’s best interests.
  • Unauthorized Trading: Executing trades without client permission.
  • Failure to Supervise: Brokerage firms not adequately monitoring advisors.
  • Overconcentration or lack of diversification: Holding too much of a single investment, increasing risk.
  • Theft or Misappropriation of client funds: Brokers stealing money for their own personal use.
  • Mutual Fund Sales Violations: Recommending unsuitable mutual funds or excessive switching.
  • Excessive Markups/Markdowns: Inflated prices when buying/selling securities.
  • Selling Away: The advisor sells unapproved investments outside the firm.
  • Broker & Advisor Negligence: Failure to adhere to industry standards.
  • Margin Abuse: Encouraging excessive margin use, leading to high risks.
  • Conflicts of Interest: Prioritizing advisor/firm profits over client interests.
  • Private Placements: Selling risky, non-registered securities.
  • Cryptocurrency Fraud: Deceitful schemes related to digital currencies.
  • 401(k) Plan Misconduct: Fiduciary breaches affecting retirement plans.
  • Microcap Fraud: Manipulation of stocks of small companies.
  • Mining and Mineral Investment Fraud: Schemes involving fictitious investments in mining or minerals.
  • EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program Fraud: Scams related to obtaining visas through investment.
  • Advance Fee Schemes: Asking for upfront fees in exchange for non-existent investments.
  • Including many more that we can’t fit on this list

Contact a Minnesota Securities and Investment Fraud Attorney Today

The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., is a law firm specializing in representing defrauded investors recover. Minnesota investment fraud lawyer Robert Wayne Pearce specializes in getting individuals their money back from bad investments using any and all available methods.

If you are an investor who has recently dealt with investment loss due to potential securities or investment fraud, we want to help.

If you have questions about how to move forward, contact our team online or by phone at 561-338-0037 for a free confidential consultation with a Minnesota securities lawyer. We will fight aggressively for your financial recovery and for justice.

Our law firm works with clients in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Duluth, Plymouth, Woodbuty, Blaine, Lakeville, Minnesota, and throughout the state. Robert Wayne Pearce has decades of first-hand experience in FINRA securities arbitration, and is one of the preeminent experts in this matter both nationwide and internationally.