Securities Fraud Arbitration: How the Process Works
Securities fraud lawyers will look at a client's account statements to see if there's been any wrongdoing. They'll also interview the client to get their account of what happened. The lawyer will then either accept or decline the case.
At that point, they'll prepare what's called a statement of claim which will be filed with either the NASD or the NYSE who then sends it to the defendant / respondent. After an answer is filed, the discovery process begins. However, unlike a traditional lawsuit, there are no depositions – only a simple exchange of documents. Afterwards, a three-day hearing is set in the major city closest to where the client lives.
Securities Fraud Lawyers Say That Clients Are Never On Their Own
If you were afraid of being thrown to wolves, think again. It takes about a year to 18 months to complete the securities fraud arbitration process and clients generally have continual contact with their securities fraud attorney as they prepare for the hearing.
The attorney will pick a panel of three from 10 to 14 possible panel members. They'll put witnesses on the stand and go through an evidentiary hearing. Within 30 days, that arbitration panel must rule on the matter. If you win, that money must be paid by the respondent within 30 days. The process replaces a trial in state or federal court – and there is generally no appeal. In fact, courts may threaten sanctions on those who file appeals.