The decision to transition from a broker-dealer to a stand-alone registered investment advisor (RIA) is a significant step for financial advisors. While it offers increased independence and the ability to...

The recent $10 million fine levied against the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) for a delayed cybersecurity incident report serves as a stark warning for registered investment advisors (RIAs). The SEC's message...

The financial advisory industry operates in a complex regulatory environment, where the potential for misunderstandings and disputes can arise. One such area of contention is the concept of "suitability." While...

This current investment adviser representative (IAR) and previous broker, located in Washington, DC, had one disclosure in her 23 years in the industry. The mark was a termination disclosure from...

More than 22 years into his career in the financial services industry, this Wisconsin-based financial advisor was terminated by LPL — and his pristine record was scarred with an “employment...

Marketing reviews for registered investment advisers are not a one-size-fits-all approach. The SEC's marketing rule (17 CFR § 275.206(4)-1), effective May 4, 2021, ushered in a new era of regulations...

Financial advising offers a rewarding career, but navigating a successful exit can be tricky. This guide provides a roadmap for financial advisors (FAs) and registered investment advisors (RIAs) seeking a...

In 2022, this South Dakota-based investment adviser representative (IAR) and former broker was 12 years into his career in the industry, when he was hit with a termination, a Form...

Uncover the hidden costs of taking on client custody. Learn how seemingly small favors like becoming a trustee or executor can lead to significant financial burdens and regulatory risks. Protect...

This California advisor is approaching four strong decades in the financial services industry. Yet his perfect record was recently marred with three settled customer disputes incurred between 2021 and 2023....

A New York-based financial advisor approaching 25 years in the industry had three customer dispute disclosures on his records. Hoping to enter his 25th year with a clear record, he...

A few years ago, AdvisorLaw dug into FINRA’s 2021 annual report and budget and posted a comprehensive breakdown of FINRA’s fee increases at the time. Specifically, we noted how there...

An advisor out of Texas who has been in the industry for more than 25 years had two customer disputes on his otherwise flawless records—both of which were over a...

When a registered investment adviser (RIA) goes through an acquisition, the transition period is critical for maintaining seamless operations and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. Understanding compliance obligations is essential...

In today's RIA compliance landscape, you have a choice. You can go with a large, private-equity-backed firm that offers a one-size-fits-all approach, or you can partner with AdvisorLaw, a client-focused...

Does an outdated criminal disclosure hold you back? You're not alone. Millions of Americans face limitations in their careers and personal lives due to past mistakes reflected in their public...

About 25 years into his career, this Texas-based advisor and CCO had one termination disclosure on his records from 2017. He chose to seek expungement of the disclosure with the...

This California advisor has maintained a perfect public BrokerCheck record since early 1998 — except for a single customer dispute in 2016. In hopes of getting the mark expunged, he...

The world of wirehouse advisors is changing. While some may enjoy a comfortable status quo, a new undercurrent of vulnerability is undeniable. Don't mistake this message for scaremongering — it's...

Contact Us Today! Award Date: June 21, 2024Claimant Representative: Chelsea Bauer, J.D., HLBS LawRespondent Firm: Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC Case Objective: This Florida-based investment adviser and former broker has...