What role do Securities Attorneys play?

Securities Attorneys serve many different functions with respect to investments. The vast majority of attorneys who practice Securities Law service the needs of large and small companies, assisting with their regulatory and financial reporting requirements. A very few attorneys focus their time solely on the representation of aggrieved investors who have a dispute with their Registered Representative or Representative's firm.

Securities Attorneys servicing investors represent these individuals in the arbitration of their disputes. In addition, they can offer investors advice on their legal rights prior to making an investment. When an investor has been subject to Stock Broker Fraud and decides to file a claim against a Representative or investment firm, they typically will hire an attorney who has experience in the field of securities and investments, with particular knowledge of Registered Representative and NASD member firm disciplinary rules and procedures. While an individual may file a claim without the assistance of an attorney, it is a good idea to hire an attorney who is experienced in these matters, as Representatives and firms will typically be represented by counsel in defending against these claims.

When looking for an attorney to represent you in filing your claim, it is important to find one who is experienced in securities arbitration. Due to the many rules and nuances involved in this practice area, it is advised to hire counsel who dedicate a majority of their practice to the prosecution of individual investor's claims.

Securities Attorneys will typically charge clients on a contingency fee basis, sharing in the recovery, if any is awarded. Investors should speak with different attorneys prior to retaining one about the fees and costs associated with representation, as well as the attorney's experience in the field of securities arbitration, and the length of time the attorney has been in practice.