Criminal Defense Lawyers

Top FINRA Defense Law Firms in New York City

You Just Got a FINRA Letter – Now What?

So, you open your mail, and there it is – a letter from FINRA. Your heart drops. You know this can’t be good. But, take a deep breath. Getting a letter or request from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority doesn’t automatically mean you’re in serious trouble. It does mean, however, that you need to get a top-notch FINRA defense lawyer on your side, immediately.

What is FINRA?

FINRA (the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) is a non-profit, self-regulatory organization that oversees U.S. broker-dealers. Its mission? To protect investors by ensuring the securities industry operates fairly and honestly.1FINRA has broad authority to bring disciplinary actions against brokers and firms for violations of its rules and federal securities laws. And trust us, you don’t want to take them on alone.

Why Did I Get a FINRA Letter?

There are many potential reasons FINRA could initiate an investigation into you or your firm, including:

• Customer complaints
• Routine regulatory exams
• Internal tips or whistleblowers
• Referrals from other regulators like the SEC
• Suspicious trading data or activity

Maybe you’re accused of mishandling funds or making unsuitable investment recommendations. Or perhaps FINRA is looking into potential supervisory failures at your firm. Regardless of the allegations, one thing is clear – you need experienced legal counsel immediately.2

Don’t Try to Go It Alone

Thinking you can just explain the situation and make this go away? Think again. FINRA’s enforcement team is relentless. They have tremendous resources and a huge incentive to find violations and punish accordingly.Representing yourself is a terrible idea that will likely only make things worse. You need a battle-tested FINRA defense lawyer who understands the regulator’s playbook and tactics. Someone who has been through this process many times before.An elite FINRA defense firm can quickly assess your situation and implement a strategic defense plan tailored specifically to your case. They know how to:

• Respond to information requests and subpoenas
• Prepare you for on-the-record interviews
• Negotiate favorable settlements
• Defend you at FINRA disciplinary hearings
• Appeal adverse decisions to the SEC and federal courts

Why Spodek Law Group?

When your career and livelihood are on the line, you can’t afford to take chances with an inexperienced lawyer. You need a firm with a proven track record of aggressively defending clients nationwide against FINRA’s toughest charges.At Spodek Law Group, FINRA defense is our passion. Our team is led by former prosecutors with decades of experience. We understand how regulators think and operate. This insight allows us to anticipate their strategies and tactics.But what truly sets us apart is our defense mentality. We never take a complacent, cookie-cutter approach. Instead, we:

• Carefully analyze each client’s unique situation
• Develop creative, bespoke defense strategies
• Leverage our prosecutorial backgrounds to stay one step ahead
• Maintain constant communication so you’re always informed

Our defense teams also collaborate at every stage. We hold frequent meetings to ensure all potential angles and options are being pursued relentlessly.It’s this level of dedication, creativity and strategic thinking that has allowed us to protect countless brokers and firms from FINRA’s most aggressive charges.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Our FINRA Defense Process

When you hire Spodek Law Group, you get a team of elite FINRA lawyers working tirelessly to safeguard your career and future. But what does that process actually look like?Initial ConsultationFirst, we’ll sit down with you for a detailed consultation. We need to understand every aspect of your situation – the allegations, the evidence, potential defenses, etc. No detail is too small.This initial meeting allows us to conduct a thorough risk assessment and start developing a customized legal strategy. We’ll advise if fighting the charges, negotiating a settlement or another approach makes the most sense for your specific circumstances.Evidence Gathering & ReviewNext, our team will gather and carefully review all relevant evidence, documentation and data. This includes information from:

• FINRA’s investigation file
• Your records and correspondence
• Testimony from key witnesses
• Analysis from industry experts

We’ll look for any potential mistakes, misunderstandings or compliance with applicable rules that could form the basis for a defense.Strategic Defense PlanAfter our exhaustive review, we’ll formulate a comprehensive, focused defense strategy tailored to your situation. This may involve:

• Demonstrating your compliance with regulations
• Identifying errors in FINRA’s findings or interpretation of facts/law
• Raising affirmative defenses like estoppel or laches
• Using documentation and expert analysis to control the narrative

The key is developing a cohesive, strategic defense – not just throwing everything at the wall and hoping something sticks.Aggressive RepresentationWith our battle plan in place, our elite litigators will aggressively advocate for you at every turn. We are passionate, relentless and will pursue every possible avenue for a favorable outcome, whether that’s:

• Negotiating an acceptable settlement
• Defending you at a FINRA disciplinary hearing
• Appealing to FINRA’s National Adjudicatory Council
• Taking the fight to federal court if needed

We also maintain a constant stream of communication, so you’re always informed and never left wondering about the status of your case.

The Bottom Line

If you get a letter from FINRA, don’t panic. But do take it seriously. Allegations of misconduct can jeopardize everything you’ve worked for. Your career, your reputation, your financial future – it’s all on the line.That’s why you need to engage qualified, experienced FINRA defense counsel immediately. A firm with a proven track record of success. A firm like Spodek Law Group that will be your fiercest advocate and protector every step of the way.Even if the situation seems dire, there is a path forward. But you have to be proactive. Don’t go it alone against FINRA’s formidable resources and aggressive enforcement tactics.Your next move is simple – contact Spodek Law Group for a confidential consultation with our elite FINRA defense team. Because when it comes to your career and future, you need the best.

FINRA’s Enforcement Process Explained

So, what do you do if you get hit with one of these things? The first step is understanding exactly what you’re up against. FINRA’s enforcement process is complex, but we’ll break it down for you.It usually starts with FINRA’s Department of Enforcement opening an investigation based on:

• Routine exams or risk monitoring
• Tips from other regulators or whistleblowers
• Investor complaints about potential sales practice abuses

Once an investigation is opened, FINRA has broad authority to demand information and documents from you or your firm through Rule 8210 requests.3 Failure to comply can lead to sanctions in itself.FINRA’s enforcement team will gather evidence, review records and testimony, and analyze trading data. They’re looking for any potential violations of FINRA rules or federal securities laws.If they believe violations occurred, FINRA will initiate formal disciplinary proceedings. Possible sanctions include:2

• Suspension of your registration
• Bar from the securities industry
• Monetary fines and disgorgement
• Censures and other penalties

The FINRA Disciplinary Process

Disciplinary cases are heard by FINRA hearing officers and panels. The hearings are similar to trials, with evidence, witnesses, expert testimony and more.2If FINRA rules against you, you can appeal to the SEC and federal courts. But appeals are an uphill battle and very costly.2Given the high stakes, defending against FINRA charges requires an experienced legal strategy from the outset. Every FINRA case is unique, so customized defense strategies are crucial.Some key considerations include:3

• FINRA’s annual regulatory and examination priorities offer insights into their enforcement focus areas
• An objective risk assessment evaluates your potential exposure based on the evidence, applicable rules, past cases, and defenses
• Viable defenses may include showing compliance, identifying FINRA mistakes, challenging interpretations, or asserting affirmative defenses

An experienced FINRA attorney analyzes all options to build the strongest defense. Documentation, data, expert analysis and testimony can all be critical. But you need to control the narrative.Presenting a cohesive, focused defense – not a “kitchen sink” approach – is usually more persuasive.3 In some cases, the risks of contesting charges outweigh the benefits. An experienced litigator can negotiate more favorable settlement terms.

Don’t Wait – Protect Yourself Now

The simple truth? FINRA’s enforcement process is stacked against you. Their teams are relentless and well-resourced. You need elite legal representation from day one.At Spodek Law Group, our nationwide team of former federal prosecutors has decades of experience defending brokers and firms in FINRA matters. We understand how the regulator operates and know how to formulate strategic counter-defenses.If you or your firm received a letter or request from FINRA, don’t delay. The sooner you engage qualified defense counsel, the better your prospects. Contact us to arrange a confidential consultation with our FINRA defense team.2Our national presence allows us to swiftly form a customized defense team for your matter – whether in New York, Los Angeles or anywhere nationwide. Remember, even if the situation seems dire, there is a path forward with strategic representation.2

Top FINRA Defense Law Firms in NYC

When it comes to FINRA defense, you need a law firm with deep securities knowledge, real courtroom experience, and a relentless mindset. A firm with the resources to fight tirelessly on your behalf.In New York City, there are several elite boutique firms that fit that description. Here are some of the top FINRA defense lawyers you’ll find in the Big Apple:Spodek Law GroupAs you’ve read, Spodek Law Group is a premier nationwide firm dedicated to defending clients facing FINRA investigations and enforcement actions. Our team is led by former federal prosecutors who understand how regulators operate.We take a strategic, customized approach to every case. We carefully analyze the situation, develop creative defense strategies, and maintain a constant stream of communication. Our defense teams collaborate at all stages to ensure all angles are pursued aggressively.With a track record of success against FINRA’s toughest charges, Spodek Law Group has the expertise and resources you need. We fight tooth and nail to protect your career, reputation and future