Long Island Securities Fraud Lawyer

Securities Fraud Attorney in Long Island, NY

Securities fraud refers to the practice of using manipulative or deceptive tactics to purchase or sell a security, such as a stock or bond. This serious federal crime often involves insider trading, the misrepresentation of financial information, or Ponzi schemes. If you’ve been accused of committing any of these criminal activities, you should hire a Long Island securities fraud lawyer right away.

Trust Jonathan Savella

The Law Office of Jonathan Savella has been practicing criminal defense law for over a decade. In that time, he has developed a keen understanding of securities fraud law thanks to his defense of clients facing charges of insider trading, investment fraud, and Ponzi schemes. Our team treats these cases with the seriousness they deserve, so you can trust us to provide a robust defense against your charges.

Why Hire a Securities Lawyer?

In 2023, 64,124 cases of securities fraud were reported across the United States. There seems to be a profile that fits the people most frequently accused of this crime. 91.5% of perpetrators are men; 92% are US citizens; and 84.5% have little to no prior criminal history.

The fact that most people accused of securities fraud have little to no prior criminal history only makes it more challenging to face these charges. If you’re in this position, you don’t have to go it alone. You can hire a securities fraud lawyer who can help you every step of the way, from understanding the charges being brought against you to defending you in court or helping you negotiate a favorable plea deal. In high-stakes federal investigations, it is vital to have counsel who understands how to respond if you receive a federal grand jury subpoena.

Defining Securities

Securities are used to raise money in public and private markets. These financial instruments have an explicit value. They include things like stocks, bank notes, and investment contracts. Most securities fall into one of three categories:

1. Equity. Equity provides ownership interests to the security’s owner.
2. Debt. These loans are repaid by a debtor to a creditor over time.
3. Hybrids. Some securities combine certain aspects of equity with others of debt.

Federal Securities Fraud

Federal securities fraud prohibits knowingly defrauding people concerning the sale of any securities. The laws governing security fraud were enacted during the Great Depression. They require any person or entity that engages in the sale of securities to provide information to buyers about the company, the securities offered, and specific financial information.

The Federal securities fraud laws are enforced by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Following an investigation, the SEC can pass the case over to the Department of Justice (DOJ), which can then bring charges against the individual or company responsible. Examples of federal securities fraud include:

• Accounting fraud
• Commodities fraud
• Investment fraud
• Embezzlement
• Ponzi schemes
• Insider trading

It’s also important to note that a corporate officer or director of a company can commit securities fraud by making inaccurate disclosures to shareholders because these inaccuracies can artificially raise the value of a company’s stock and encourage buyers to buy when they shouldn’t. Third-party misrepresentation, often referred to as a pump-and-dump scheme, is also illegal. If your charges involve these complex schemes, you need an expert Long Island financial crime lawyer.

State Securities Fraud

New York State has the strictest securities fraud laws in the country, largely due to Wall Street’s presence. These laws are codified by the Martin Act. The Martin Act provides the state’s attorney general with the power to investigate or bring a claim against anyone believed to be committing securities fraud, which can be tried as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. This type of white-collar crime is often pursued under the complex laws of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

The penalties for misdemeanor security fraud can include a sentence of 15 days to 1 year in prison. When it’s labeled a Class E felony, security fraud is punishable by 1 to 4 years in a local prison, such as the Queensborough Correctional Center.

FAQs

What Actions Are Considered Securities Fraud Under New York and Federal Law?

There are several actions that are considered securities fraud under New York and federal law. They include:

• Insider trading
• Ponzi schemes
• Market manipulation
• Investment fraud

New York takes these crimes very seriously. If you’re being prosecuted for securities fraud in any capacity, you should seek out a skilled Long Island securities fraud attorney right away.

How Can a Long Island Securities Fraud Lawyer Help During an Investigation?

A Long Island securities fraud lawyer can help during an investigation by gathering evidence, developing a defense strategy, and protecting your rights. Your lawyer will be able to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you don’t make missteps that could harm your case, such as providing incomplete information or ignoring requests. They can also represent you in all interactions with authorities and negotiate a plea deal on your behalf.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a Securities Fraud Conviction in Long Island?

The potential penalties for a securities fraud conviction in Long Island include substantial prison time, large fines, and paying restitution to the victims. Federal penalties are usually steeper than state penalties, but your specific penalty will depend on the severity of the crime and the amount of money that was involved.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Accused of Insider Trading or Investment Fraud?

If you’ve been accused of insider trading or investment fraud, you should hire a securities fraud lawyer immediately. Working with a skilled lawyer will improve your chances of getting the charges dropped and, if that’s not possible, give you access to legal advice and representation throughout the trial process. Your lawyer can also help you negotiate a plea deal if you choose to go that route.

Your Long Island Securities Fraud Lawyer

If you’ve been accused of a crime like insider trading or investment fraud, you should hire a Long Island securities fraud lawyer right away. The Law Office of Jonathan Savella can help. Our team has been practicing criminal law for over a decade, and in that time, we’ve taken on numerous securities fraud cases. Let us leverage our intimate knowledge of securities fraud laws to achieve a positive outcome in your case. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation today.