Fort Mill Investment Fraud Lawyer

Fort Mill Investment Fraud Attorney

Facing investment fraud in South Carolina can compromise your financial future, freedoms, and profession. Even mere allegations can destroy your clients’ trust in you. The Fort Mill investment fraud lawyers of Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., understand how overwhelming these charges can be. We offer experienced legal representation for individuals and businesses accused of investment fraud.

Investment Fraud in South Carolina

Investment fraud is a white-collar crime that generally involves misleading or deceiving investors to secure financial gain. It may include false promises, misrepresentations, or the omission of material facts. Both federal and South Carolina laws prosecute investment fraudsters.

Some common types of investment fraud cases include:

• Ponzi schemes
• Insider trading
• Pyramid schemes
• Misrepresentation of investment risks
• Unauthorized trading
• Excessive trading
• Broker-dealer fraud
• Unregistered securities sales
• Failure to disclose conflicts of interest
• Internet and cryptocurrency investment scams

The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported investment fraud as the largest financial loss fraud report of 2023, totaling $42.5 million. However, investment fraud losses decreased in 2024, totaling $30.6 million.

Fort Mill, SC, has seen high-profile investment fraud cases and regulatory action. Notably, LPL Financial, headquartered in Fort Mill, faced regulatory sanctions including a $5.5 million fine and restitution for supervisory failures leading to unsupervised and possibly unsuitable transactions. In a separate federal prosecution, a Fort Mill resident was sentenced to over three years in prison for securities and wire fraud—defrauding investors of over $1 million through deceptive investment scheme. Residents are urged to verify investment opportunities and report suspicious activities to state and federal authorities.

The Importance of Hiring a Fort Mill Investment Fraud Lawyer

An investment fraud allegation can come with serious financial penalties and criminal consequences. Sentences can include lengthy prison time and extremely high fines. You may also need to pay restitution to the victims. In some cases, you may receive probation as part of your plea agreement.

The Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority may also impose fines. You can face disgorgement of profits and a loss of licenses or professional certifications if charges are made. In addition, you may be banned from working in the financial or securities industry going forward.

These investment fraud penalties can devastate your career, family, and financial standing. Hiring an investment fraud lawyer with experience in criminal and regulatory defense is critical to minimizing penalties.

Christopher A Wellborn, P.A., provides representation in all stages of the legal process, including federal and state investigations, pre-trial negotiations, and plea agreements. Having an investment fraud attorney on your side can also benefit you during criminal trials and post-conviction appeals.

The earlier you get legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding charges or reducing their impact. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Building a Strong Defense Against Investment Fraud Charges

Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., builds a tailored defense strategy designed to weaken the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. We review every detail of your case, including facts, documents, and alleged evidence.

Some of our key strategies include:

• Challenging intent. Investment fraud requires intent to defraud. If prosecutors can’t prove that you knowingly misled investors or acted with a fraudulent purpose, the case against you may not stand.
• Questioning evidence. Most of the evidence involves complex financial records and digital communications. Our team works with forensic accountants and industry experts to expose flaws in the government’s interpretation of the data.
• Proving compliance. In many cases, what prosecutors see as misconduct is simply a misunderstanding, administrative error, or a good-faith business decision. Showing that your actions were compliant with guidelines can help support your case.
• Negotiating reduced charges. In some situations, it may be better to negotiate a reduced charge or sentence. Our experience negotiating investment fraud cases can give you a better chance of getting a plea deal or supporting pre-trial agreements.

Why Choose Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A.?

Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., brings decades of experience to the table when it comes to defending investment fraud offenders. He has handled high-stakes, white-collar cases in both federal and state courts, understanding the complex financial investment fraud laws in South Carolina.

Our team offers individualized legal strategies focused on your unique case, and we pride ourselves on being responsive and clear in our communication. We understand the urgency and stress associated with investment fraud charges and are prepared to fight for your future.

What to Do if You’re Under Investigation

If federal agents or regulators have contacted you about investigating fraud charges, your responses can impact your case. Don’t speak to investigators, since anything you say can be used against you. Instead, hire an investment fraud attorney who can communicate with investigators on your behalf.

Be sure to preserve all documents, such as contracts and financial records. Never destroy evidence, or this could result in additional criminal charges. Early intervention is the key to success in an investment fraud case.

FAQs

Hire an Investment Fraud Lawyer Today

No matter if you’ve already been charged or you’re currently under investigation for investment fraud, you need legal guidance as soon as possible. Protect your career and reputation with the help of our skilled Fort Mill investment fraud lawyer.

Call Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., today to schedule a consultation. We can discuss your case and begin crafting a defense strategy that gives you the strongest chance of a favorable outcome.