Securities fraud is a serious offense that has affected many people in Greenville, South Carolina over the past ten years. It is not investigated in the same way as many other crimes. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the organization tasked with investigating securities fraud. Such investigations are just one of the many ways the SEC ensures the integrity of the securities.

SEC and securities fraud

Securities fraud is the act of lying to obtain property in the form of securities. This action is dangerous to the overall economy because it challenges the accepted rules and regulations that bring honesty and clarity to securities markets. The general public relies on these markets for retirement savings and economically beneficial investments. Money must remain plentiful and liquid in the world of securities.

In order to keep the general public using securities, they must be convinced that nobody is gaming the system or stealing their money. The SEC is the watchdog that accomplishes this task for the federal government. They tackle many types of fraud and white collar crimes including insider trading. Insider trading prosecutions help to ensure that companies and their operators are honest about their own investments in companies they are familiar with.

Process

Securities fraud is a particularly sensitive and complex type of fraud. But when it comes to investigations, it is often examined like any other type of fraud. In order to determine whether or not securities fraud has occurred, investigators look at communications and subpoena any documents associated with the securities transaction.

In cases of insider trading, they will often collect evidence of any conversations that a person may have had with insiders at a company. Through this effort, they hope to piece together a narrative that will show securities fraud taking place. The SEC has an important task in the financial world that fraud investigations help to uphold.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

WGY Logo White

100% Confidential
Available 24/7

Call 864-808-6871

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.