Q: I lost money in the stock market but am unsure if my broker or his firm was responsible, What do I do?

A: We will evaluate your case at no charge. It is important to us that brokers and their firms be held accountable for negligence or misconduct. Although we cannot handle every case, if we believe your case has merit and is suitable for our group to handle, we will go forward on a contingency fee basis. If we cannot handle your case, we will not go forward and you owe us nothing.

Q: Can I recover my stock market and bond losses?

A: In many cases, YES, brokers have a duty to be honest and forthright with you, to recommend suitable investment choices and to disclose material risks about investments. Large stock market and bond losses are not normal in a well balanced portfolio.

Q: How do I recover my stock market and bond losses?

A: Brokerage firms, as a condition of doing business, require investors to fill out new account forms that contain arbitration clauses. Therefore, most cases are decided in arbitration.

Q: Can I lose money if I make a claim in arbitration?

A: Counter-claims can be made against claimants and costs can be assessed against a claimant in arbitration. Risk-free litigation does not exist. It is important to have competent counsel to evaluate the merits of your claim before proceeding.

Q: How much are the attorney fees?

A: Our group charges 30% of the gross recovery before filing a statement of claim (institution of formal proceedings), 35% of the gross recovery after filing a statement of claim and 40% of gross recovery after an exchange of witness and exhibit lists. Because our fees are contingent upon making a recovery, if we lose you owe us no attorney fees.

Q: Are attorney fees recoverable?

A: The prevailing party can seek attorney fees from the arbitration panel which rests within the discretion of the arbitrators.

Q: Do I need an attorney in arbitration?

A: Attorney representation is not required but the brokerage firm will be represented by an attorney. We would never recommend that an individual be unrepresented in an arbitration. You should review the credentials and experience of the attorney you select very carefully. Please review our biographies and call us if you have any questions.

Q: Who is responsible for subprime losses in my portfolio?

A: There were many actors who played a part in the subprime meltdown. Again, your broker had a duty to make material disclosures of risk to you and to place you in suitable securities and bonds.

Q: Do all of the firms in your group have lawyers who have practiced securities litigation?

A: Again, all of our group firm biographies are listed. When choosing a lawyer, experience matters. We feel our trial team is unequalled in the field of securities litigation.

Q: Is my initial consultation free?

A: If after our initial consultation and before the signing of a contract of employment, you choose not to go forward with us, you owe us nothing.