Virginia Federal Securities Fraud Defense
Securities fraud can take many forms, including investment fraud and stock fraud. Accusations of insider trading, Ponzi schemes, and other types of fraud can have serious legal and professional consequences. It is important to find legal representation for your case by contacting a Virginia federal securities fraud lawyer.
Call today to discuss your case with a Virginia federal fraud lawyer.
Benefits of Working with a Lawyer
Sometimes, people are hesitant to hire an attorney in the early stages of a federal investigation. They may believe that they can handle things on their own, or may feel that retaining a lawyer makes them look guilty.
However, having legal representation is your right, and by calling Virginia federal securities fraud attorney as early as possible you can help preserve your constitutional rights, receive the necessary legal counsel to avoid making mistakes in your case, and attain the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have an advocate working for your best interest.
Federal securities fraud cases in Virginia are handled by the United States District Court for the Eastern or Western District of Virginia. Having an attorney who is familiar with these courts can help you successfully navigate the federal justice process.
What is Securities Fraud?
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires honesty and transparency in securities sales and trades and investment opportunities. Without an ability to make an informed decision about the benefits and risks of any investment, investors lose trust in the market, and it becomes unstable.
In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile federal securities fraud cases. These include convictions for misleading investors through concealment, deception, or other types of fraud. Common securities fraud schemes include the following:
- Ponzi/pyramid schemes in which returns to early investors are paid through investments of newer investors. In these schemes, there is no legitimate investment.
- High-yield investment schemes, or “too good to be true” opportunities promising high returns for little investment or risk
- Insider trading, which utilizes non-public information to conduct stock trades or sales.
- Stock option fraud which occurs through backdating stock options to create immediate profitability.
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934 prohibits fraud, false claims, and misrepresentation in the purchase or sale of securities in Rule 10b.
Federal Securities Fraud Laws
Like many acts of fraud, stock market fraud and investment fraud may be prosecuted under several different federal statutes. However, the primary federal law dealing with criminal penalties for securities fraud is 18 U.S. Code § 1348 – Securities and Commodities Fraud.
This statute forbids fraud, deception, and misrepresentation in connection with securities, commodities, and investments. Under this law, securities fraud is punishable by a maximum of 25 years in prison. Penalties also include fines, restitution, and asset forfeiture.
With such serious consequences at stake, it is important to find a federal defense attorney who is equipped to handle a federal case.
Finding An Attorney Who Can Help
If you are under suspicion of securities fraud, schedule a free consultation with an attorney as quickly as possible. By scheduling a free consultation with one of our Virginia federal securities fraud lawyers, you’re making a proactive decision with an eye to the future.
