According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, since 2008, investigations involving securities and commodities fraud have increased 52 percent.  A securities fraud conviction carries significant penalties depending on the severity and scope of the type of securities fraud perpetrated and the impact of the misconduct on the people affected.  In an increasingly global marketplace and the interconnected nature of the global economy, securities fraud offenses have become more widespread and the actors involved in these types of frauds are often publicly ridiculed.  If you are facing federal securities fraud charges, having a qualified Maryland federal securities lawyer in your corner will afford you the peace of mind that someone will be working towards the best possible resolution for defending your legal rights.

What Is Securities Fraud?

Securities fraud happens when a person knowingly engages or attempts to engage in a scheme or artifice to defraud in the stock or commodities market and/or knowingly obtains property or money by false representations or promises in connection with any purchase or sale of a commodity. See 18 U.S. Code Section 1348.  The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) is the government organization often tasked with regulating and enforcing securities laws.  However, other federal organizations such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (“FBI”), Commodities and Future Trading Commission (“CFTC”) and the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) are also involved in enforcing securities laws.  Securities fraud also encompasses investment fraud such as ponzi schemes, pyramid schemes, and commodities fraud, market manipulations such as insider trading, and broker embezzlements such as misrepresentations or misstatements on public company financial reports.

Potential Penalties for Securities Fraud

A federal securities fraud conviction carries serious consequences that may include fines, restitution to victims, probation and/or incarceration not to exceed 25 years.  A federal sentencing judge will rely on the United States Federal Sentencing Guidelines in determining the appropriate penalty that corresponds to the type of security offense convicted as well as account for the overall impact on the victims. Given the broad range of penalties that may result from a federal securities fraud conviction, obtaining the services of a Maryland federal securities fraud attorney will provide you with the opportunity to help curtail the potential penalties as well as the public and professional fallout.

Work With a Maryland Federal Securities Fraud Attorney

Whether you are under investigation, implicated in a fraudulent scheme or have been charged with federal securities fraud, our team of legal professionals understands the uncertainty that you may face.  Do not hesitate to consult a Maryland federal securities fraud lawyer at our firm who can competently guide you through the legal process and help evaluate and determine the most ideal course of action for your specific needs. We provide a free consultation. Call today.