Millions of unsuspecting individuals and businesses are affected by securities fraud each year in the U.S. and billions of dollars are lost as a result of securities frauds annually. Also known as investment fraud, securities fraud is a practice where investors are deceived and manipulated, resulting in theft.

Securities fraud can be committed in several ways: when a corporate officer or director makes a material misrepresentation, withholding, or distortion related to stock information, typically pertaining to value; when an individual or entity acts upon the unlawful disclosure of certain confidential stock information, and finally when an officer or director unlawfully discloses confidential information related to a stock.

Securities fraud falls into the white collar crime category, and both federal and state laws govern it. Private investors can sue or take other legal action against the offender(s) or a government agency, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, can intervene and take legal action.

If you have been accused of securities fraud, whether you feel you are guilty or not, you should hire a criminal lawyer or attorney to help you with your case. If you are suing someone for securities fraud to recover damages resulting from the crime, you will need to hire a civil lawyer or attorney. Criminal lawyers and attorneys represent individuals who have been charged with crimes by arguing their cases in courts of law. A criminal lawyer or attorney will typically have a private practice concentrating on criminal law.

If you have been arrested for being involved in a securities fraud, you should request an attorney or contact a private criminal lawyer or attorney immediately. There are many things to look for when hiring a criminal lawyer or attorney. A good criminal attorney will be familiar with important securities fraud laws of the state in which the crime took place, because many criminal law rules are hidden away in court interpretations of federal and state constitutions. Criminal lawyers and attorneys will also be familiar with local court customs and procedures, and they will have a clear understanding of the "hidden costs" of pleading guilty.

If you are ready to contact a criminal lawyer or attorney to help you with your case, visit the American Bar Association. The American Bar Association offers free access to their lawyer locator, a search function that can help you search for a suitable criminal lawyer or attorney in your area.

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