Dallas Securities Fraud Lawyer

Attorney for White Collar Crimes in Texas

Securities fraud can be prosecuted by either the state of Texas or the federal courts. It is a type of white collar crime. Being charged at either level is a very serious event. Being convicted of securities fraud can leave you facing more than two decades in prison - in the most serious cases, you could even face life imprisonment. Securities fraud encompasses a wide range of actions pertaining to the selling and buying of securities, from abusive short selling to presenting a potential investor with false or misleading information in an effort to induce them to buy securities. Some individuals are charged with this offense after making an unintentional mistake due to the complexity of both the securities market and the offense itself.

Spencer & Associates has a strong understanding of the legally complex crime of securities fraud, and we have built our knowledge up through years of experience. Our white collar crime defense attorney is experienced in defending those charged with securities fraud. We conduct our own investigations in order to develop a clear picture of what may have occurred, gathering any evidence we believe may help you. It is our goal to ensure that you will be able to continue living your life as usual after your case concludes, and we will strive to meet this goal wherever possible.

Defining Securities Fraud

Securities fraud charges encompass many different types of criminal schemes relating to securities. Securities, or "stocks," are an essential part of the national economy, so fraud related to these investments is taken extremely seriously. When some parties do not play fair, the economic fallout can easily impact a large number of people.

Generally, inducing another party to buy or sell securities in a deceptive fashion is the definition of the offense of securities fraud. Types of securities fraud schemes include:

• Ponzi or pyramid schemes
• Providing deceptive information in the financial report of a public company
• Insider trading
• Dealing in unregistered securities
• Fraudulently manipulating the price of securities
• Certain violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
• Embezzling or stealing investment funds
• Inducing others to buy financial products based on false or misleading information

This is not a comprehensive list of all types of conduct that can result in a securities fraud charge. You do not need to have succeeded in profiting from the fraud in order to be convicted. However, if you have, then you may face asset forfeiture.

Securities fraud may be charged in conjunction with other offenses, such as wire fraud if electronic communications were used to further the scheme.

Penalties for Securities Fraud

Securities fraud is considered a serious offense. The degree of this felony and the sentencing it carries depends on the amount of money involved and other factors that weigh on the seriousness of the conduct. It generally carries at least two years in the less serious cases, and a conviction can carry up to a life sentence in the most severe, high-level, sophisticated, and profitable schemes.

Even after any judicially-imposed penalties have been completed, having this offense on your record can impact you for the rest of your life. You may find that you struggle to find professional employment, and you may even have difficulty finding suitable housing, especially if your home and other assets were seized.

It is best to involve an attorney as soon as possible so that we can begin taking steps to protect you immediately.

Contact a Dallas Securities Fraud Attorney

Spencer & Associates is highly experienced in fighting for those accused of securities fraud. Our seasoned white collar crime attorney will do everything in his power to help you. For a complimentary initial consultation, please contact us at 214-385-8500.