We recognize the stress and frustration that accompanies being a victim of investment fraud, and we’re committed to guiding you through the legal process to ensure those accountable are brought to justice.

Seattle investment fraud and securities attorney Robert Wayne Pearce at the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce P.A., have extensive experience representing investors and organizations in securities arbitrations through FINRA in the State of Washington.

Since 1980, we have been devoted to helping investors and have successfully recovered over $175 million in settlements and verdicts on their behalf. View client testimonials here. Washington and Federal Laws That Protect Investors

Don’t let investment and stockbroker fraud ruin your financial future – contact the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. today via our quick-response form, or call our Seattle office line at (800) 732-2889.

Our law firm serves clients across Washington, including in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, Everett, Kent, Yakima, Renton, and Spokane Valley, as well as other areas statewide. Robert Wayne Pearce brings decades of direct experience in FINRA securities arbitration, establishing him as a leading expert in this field both nationally and internationally.

What is Investment Fraud and Securities Fraud

Investment fraud is a term sometimes used interchangeably with securities fraud, and it involves using deceptive practices, including false or misleading information, to manipulate investors into making investment decisions that result in substantial losses. Dishonest brokers may even resort to outright theft of investor’s funds or securities. 

Example Scenario: An investor is persuaded by their broker to put a large portion of their retirement savings into a high-risk, illiquid investment. The broker downplays the risks, misrepresents the potential returns, and pressures the investor to make a quick decision. The investment ultimately fails, leading to significant losses for the investor.

When you initially engaged your broker-dealer, you probably expected them to prioritize your interests. However, it’s not uncommon for brokers and financial advisors to fall short of their fiduciary duty, or even engage in securities fraud. They may mislead you about investment opportunities, hide associated risks, excessively trade (churn) to earn commissions, or impose hidden fees that overcharge you in managing your account.

Investment Losses? We Can Help

Discuss your legal options with an attorney at The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A.

Get A Free Consultation

or, give us a ring at (800) 732-2889.

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Can We Can Help if You’ve Suffered Stockbroker or Securities Fraud in WA

In order to recover your investment losses, you must prove that your stockbroker or financial advisor violated Federal Securities laws, Securities Act of Washington, breached their fiduciary duty to you as an investor, breached contracts to follow industry rules and regulations or were negligent in dealing with you and your investments.

In most cases, this means filing a FINRA arbitration claim against the broker-dealer and/or representative.

The majority of securities fraud cases are handled by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) rather than being brought to the court system.

FINRA arbitration is a streamlined, cost-effective way to resolve disputes between investors and their brokers without going to court – it also allows you to collect punitive damages, which are not available in civil court.

What Can an Investment Fraud Lawyer Do for Investors?

investment fraud lawyers

An investment fraud lawyer helps investors recover investment losses that they lost due to a financial advisor or broker who did not act in their best interest. Typically, the lawyer will help the investor recover their losses through a process called FINRA arbitration.

Investment Losses? Let’s talk.

or, give us a ring at 800-732-2889.

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Washington and Federal Laws That Protect Investors

Washington investors benefit from a robust framework of protections designed to ensure fair and transparent markets. These safeguards include:

    • Key Laws and Regulations
        • Securities Act of Washington: The cornerstone of Washington investor protection, this law combats fraud, mandates the registration of most securities, and provides avenues for investors to seek recourse if they’ve been misled.

        • Washington Business Corporation Act: This statute outlines shareholder rights and the responsibilities of company leaders, aiming to ensure that corporations act in the shareholders’ best interests.

        • Washington Unfair Business Practices-Consumer Protection Act This broad law empowers investors to take action against unfair or deceptive investment practices.

    • Governing Agencies
        • Washington Department of Financial Institutions: This agency is the primary watchdog for the Washington securities industry. They register offerings, license brokers, investigate misconduct, and educate investors about their rights.

        • Office of the Washington Attorney General (Consumer Protection Division): Focused on consumer protection, this office can intervene in cases of investment fraud or other deceptive practices that harm Washington investors.

    • National Regulatory Bodies
        • FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority): FINRA oversees all broker-dealers in the US, setting ethical standards, enforcing securities laws, and providing investor education resources. They work alongside the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) for broad investor protection.

What Are the Statute of Limitations?

 In Washington, the deadline to file a claim for securities fraud is three years from the date the fraud was or should have been discovered with reasonable care. Federally, the statute of limitations for securities fraud is generally five years from the date of the violation or two years from when the fraud should have been detected. Consulting with an attorney promptly ensures that your claim is filed within these time limits.

Contact a Local Securities and Investment Fraud Attorney Today

The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., is a law firm specializing in representing defrauded investors recover. Washington investment fraud attorney Robert Wayne Pearce specializes in getting individuals their money back from bad investments using any and all available methods.

If you are an investor who has recently dealt with investment loss due to potential securities or investment fraud, we want to help.

If you have questions about how to move forward, contact our team online or call our Seattle office line at (800) 732-2889 for a free confidential consultation with a Washington securities lawyer. We will fight aggressively for your financial recovery and for justice.