David R. Chase, P.A.
Call Us Now: 800-760-0912
David R. Chase, P.A.
Call Us Now: 800-760-0912

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800-760-0912

Charleston Insider Trading Lawyer

Under SEC Investigation for Insider Trading?
What You Need to Know

Call Us Now: 800-760-0912

If you are facing a SEC insider trading investigation in Charleston, South Carolina, the stakes are high.  The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), often in close coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), aggressively investigates and prosecutes insider trading using sophisticated market surveillance tools, big data analysis, and whistleblower tips.  SEC investigations are non-public and by the time you become aware that you are under inquiry, a substantial case may have already been built against you.

David R. Chase, Esq., a nationally acclaimed SEC defense attorney and former SEC enforcement lawyer, provides strategic and personalized legal representation to individuals and businesses under SEC investigation, including insider trading cases.   Based in South Florida, Mr. Chase defends clients throughout the United States, including professionals and executives in Charleston’s expanding financial and business communities.

What Is Insider Trading?

Insider trading takes place when an individual purchases or sells securities based on material, nonpublic information (MNPI) obtained in breach of a duty or in violation of a relationship of trust or confidence.  Liability is not limited to corporate insiders — anyone who trades or tips others using confidential information may potentially find themselves under the SEC’s crosshairs. 

There are two legally recognized theories of illegal insider trading:

SEC Subpoena Defense Lawyer Step 1

Classical Insider Trading

Occurs when a company insider (such as an executive, director, or employee) uses MNPI to trade, or shares the information with others, who then trade in breach of a fiduciary duty.  Both the insider (tipper) and those that receive the MNPI and trade (tippee) can be held liable.

Subpoena Defense Lawyer Step 2

Misappropriation Theory

Takes place when an individual comes into possession of MNPI lawfully (like a lawyer, consultant, or advisor), but then misuses the information to trade for personal benefit in breach of a fiduciary duty or a confidentiality provision. 

Penalties for insider trading can be severe and typically include:

Civil penalties

Disgorgement of profits (trading gains) or losses avoided

Bars, permanent or temporal, from serving as an officer or director of a public company

Criminal prosecution, fines, and imprisonment if the DOJ pursues the case

Why the SEC Targets Insider Trading in Charleston

Charleston is an increasingly prominent economic center, home to thriving industries such as finance, real estate, healthcare, logistics, and technology.  With a growing number of professionals involved in public companies, private equity, and investment advisory services, the region naturally draws attention from federal regulators.

The SEC closely monitors trading activity linked to Charleston-based individuals and firms. Suspicious activity, such as unusually timed trades or connections to nonpublic corporate events, can trigger an investigation, sometimes launched by a whistleblower, flagged through the SEC’s sophisticated data analytics systems or referred from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

If you have received an SEC subpoena or an unannounced telephone call from SEC lawyers questioning you about your trading (known as an “ambush” call), now is the time to consult with an experienced defense attorney.

Why You Need an Experienced SEC Defense Attorney

Insider trading defense requires an in-depth understanding of the federal securities laws, federal investigative tactics and SEC enforcement procedures.  David R. Chase brings this unique experience to every client’s case, having worked on both sides, first as an SEC enforcement attorney and now as a SEC defense attorney.

Why Choose David R. Chase?

Former SEC Enforcement Attorney

Mr. Chase served in the SEC’s Enforcement Division in the position of Senior Counsel, where he directed insider trading and securities fraud investigations. His insider knowledge of how the SEC thinks, investigates and negotiates gives his clients a powerful advantage.

Dedicated SEC Defense Practice

After leaving the SEC, Mr. Chase established a boutique law firm focused exclusively on defending clients in SEC and FINRA investigations.  Insider trading defense has been a core area of his national practice for the last 25 years.

Nationwide Representation

Mr. Chase defends clients across the United States, including in Charleston, South Carolina.  He regularly handles SEC subpoenas, Wells Notices, SEC settlement negotiations, and enforcement actions.

Personalized Legal Strategy

Mr. Chase personally handles every case. He works closely with each client to strategically navigate them through the often-stressful investigatory process with the key objective of avoiding charges.

What to Do If You’re Under SEC Investigation for Insider Trading

If you have received a subpoena, a Wells Notice, or believe you are under investigation, you should be war of speaking with SEC investigators without legal counsel.  Even seemingly harmless or “innocent” statements can, and will likely, be used against you.

David Chase will:

  • Advise you of your rights and obligations under the securities laws
  • Communicate with SEC enforcement staff on your behalf
  • Assist you with subpoena compliance and document production
  • Analyze the facts and build a proactive, strategic defense
  • Seek to avoid formal charges or negotiate favorable resolutions when appropriate

Early legal intervention from an experienced Charleston insider trading lawyer can dramatically affect the outcome of your case.

Contact Charleston Insider Trading Lawyer David R. Chase, Esq. Today

If you’re facing insider trading allegations or have received an SEC subpoena in Charleston or elsewhere in South Carolina, don’t wait.  A skilled SEC defense attorney can help you protect your future.

Call David R. Chase, Esq. at 800-760-0912 for a confidential consultation. You can also visit www.securitiesfrauddefense.net to learn more about Mr. Chase’s experience, prior successful case results, and focused insider trading defense legal services.

Contact a Charleston Insider Trading Lawyer

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