Harrison

Expert Guidance in Financial Advisor Disputes and Complaints

At Harrison, we understand that navigating the complexities of financial disputes can be daunting for even the most experienced investors. Our practice stands as a beacon in the financial services industry, providing decisive, expert guidance in the face of disputes and complaints. We are deeply invested in the welfare of our clients, fighting tirelessly to ensure fair and just outcomes.

With our exceptional team of seasoned attorneys, we offer expertise in a wide array of areas, all with a common goal – to protect and uphold the rights of investors who have been harmed by wayward financial advisors. Our commitment is not just to win cases, but to pave the way for heightened transparency, ethics, and fairness in the securities industry.

At Harrison, we don’t just represent you; we advocate for a more equitable financial services landscape, fostering trust and integrity in all our dealings.

FINRA Dispute Resolution and Arbitration

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) serves a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and fairness of the securities industry. At Harrison, we have a thorough understanding of the procedures and requirements involved in FINRA’s dispute resolution mechanisms.

There may be instances when a financial advisor is accused of misconduct, perhaps even fraud. This is where FINRA’s dispute resolution and arbitration can be vital. FINRA arbitration offers a platform for allegations to be examined thoroughly. Should FINRA find evidence of wrongdoing, they have the authority to impose a range of regulatory penalties on the noncompliant broker or brokerage firm. While penalties can include financial sanctions, suspensions, and in severe cases, censures, the primary goal is to maintain a fair, transparent securities industry.

Our experienced team of attorneys can guide you through the process of FINRA arbitration or mediation. We understand that the journey to dispute resolution can be complex and potentially daunting. Our role is to streamline the process, offer strategic advice, and fiercely advocate for your interests throughout the proceedings.

Whether you’re looking to understand your obligations and rights in a FINRA investigation or require representation in arbitration proceedings, Harrison is equipped to assist you with competent, professional legal guidance.

Investor Complaints and Dispute Resolution

While FINRA plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the securities industry, it’s crucial to understand the differences between filing an investor regulatory complaint with FINRA and participating in a FINRA dispute resolution program, such as mediation or arbitration.

Investor Regulatory Complaints

Filing an investor complaint is an effective way to bring potential broker misconduct or fraud to FINRA’s attention. If FINRA’s investigation of the complaint reveals evidence of wrongdoing, they have the authority to impose a range of penalties and sanctions, including monetary sanctions, restitution orders, suspensions, and possibly censures. However, it’s essential to understand that even if FINRA penalizes the broker after reviewing the complaint, it does not necessarily mean the investor will be compensated.

Dispute Resolution

If an investor aims for financial recovery, they need to participate in dispute resolution. This process involves filing a claim for arbitration or mediation, the two dispute resolution options that FINRA currently offers. Arbitration and mediation are more involved processes and typically require the guidance of an experienced attorney.

At Harrison, we can help you understand these different processes, guide you through them, and determine the best course of action based on your unique situation. We are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and interests, ensuring that you have the legal support necessary to navigate these complex procedures.

FINRA Arbitration and Mediation

Arbitration and mediation are two fundamental methods of dispute resolution offered by FINRA. While they both aim to resolve disputes, they are fundamentally different processes, and understanding these differences can help determine the best path forward.

Arbitration

Arbitration is a legal process wherein a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, hears evidence and arguments from both sides and then makes a binding decision on who the prevailing party in the dispute is. In the securities industry, FINRA operates the largest securities dispute resolution forum in the United States, and it is typically faster and less expensive than litigation in court.

Mediation

Mediation, on the other hand, is a voluntary process that is more informal and flexible than arbitration. In mediation, a neutral third party helps the disputing parties reach an agreement to which they both consent. It is a confidential process and can result in a solution that is mutually beneficial to all parties involved.

At Harrison, we have extensive experience in both FINRA arbitration and mediation proceedings. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique circumstances and tailor our approach to meet their specific needs and goals. We are committed to providing our clients with the legal guidance they need to navigate through these processes and achieve the best possible outcome.

Representation in Disputes

At Harrison, we provide comprehensive representation to investors involved in disputes with brokerage firms and financial advisors. Disputes can arise out of numerous situations such as alleged broker misconduct, breach of fiduciary duty, excessive trading, or unauthorized transactions.

Financial advisors themselves may also find themselves in conflict with brokerage firms, often regarding employment issues or disputes involving promissory notes or Employee Forgivable Loans (EFLs). We understand the complexity and unique characteristics of these agreements and can help advisors defend their rights and negotiate favorable terms.

Furthermore, we assist clients with:

Claim Filing: We guide investors and financial advisors through the process of filing complaints and entering FINRA’s dispute resolution process, including arbitration and mediation. We ensure that all claims are filed correctly and in a timely manner to avoid any potential complications.
Case Preparation: Our team is well-versed in preparing compelling cases for our clients, drawing upon our deep understanding of the securities industry and regulations. We gather and analyze relevant evidence, identify appropriate legal strategies, and prepare our clients for the dispute resolution process.
Negotiations and Settlement: Not all disputes have to end in arbitration or mediation. In some instances, an informal, negotiated settlement can be the best path forward. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can work with opposing parties to reach a fair and reasonable settlement whenever possible. Hearings: If a case does go to arbitration or a hearing before FINRA, we provide our clients with robust representation, vigorously presenting their case and challenging any opposing evidence.
Hearings: If a case does go to arbitration or a final hearing before FINRA, we provide our clients with robust representation, vigorously presenting their case and challenging any opposing evidence.

We understand the stress and uncertainty that disputes can cause, and we are committed to standing by our clients’ side every step of the way, providing the legal guidance and support they need to resolve their disputes successfully.

FINRA Dispute Resolution Assistance

Whether you are a financial advisor facing an employment dispute or an investor who has suffered a loss due to questionable broker conduct, resolving the issue can be complex and stressful. This is where the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) comes into play as a non-governmental agency that oversees the securities industry and provides mechanisms for dispute resolution.

Harrison offers extensive services to guide you through FINRA’s dispute resolution process, which typically involves either mediation or arbitration. Here’s what we can do:

Reviewing Your Case: We start by thoroughly assessing your situation, whether it involves allegations of broker fraud, misconduct, or improper action. This step allows us to determine the best course of action.
Filing a FINRA Dispute Resolution Claim: Based on our assessment, we'll help you file for arbitration - the primary avenue of FINRA dispute resolution. Unlike court litigation, this process can be quicker and more cost-effective.
Representation During Mediation or Arbitration: Once your claim is filed, we'll be there to represent you every step of the way. Our team will present evidence of broker fraud or counter any allegations made against you if you're a financial advisor.
Post-Resolution Support: After the dispute resolution, we'll provide ongoing support to ensure that any awards are properly executed or any directives from the resolution are duly complied with.

Navigating FINRA’s dispute resolution processes can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Harrison is here to help you traverse this landscape with confidence and ease. Let our experienced team guide you towards a resolution that aligns with your interests.

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