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Accused of stalking Alec Baldwin. The case garnered nationwide attention, with USAToday, NYPost, and other media outlets following it closely.

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Meet Todd Spodek

WE PROVIDE WHITE GLOVE SERVICE TO CLIENTS
WHO WANT MORE FROM THEIR ATTORNEY

The Spodek Law Group understands how delicate high-profile cases can be, and has a strong track record of getting positive outcomes. Our lawyers service a clientele that is nationwide. With offices in both LA and NYC, and cases all across the country - Spodek Law Group is a top tier law firm.

Todd Spodek is a second generation attorney with immense experience. He has many years of experience handling 100’s of tough and hard to win trials. He’s been featured on major news outlets, such as New York Post, Newsweek, Fox 5 New York, South China Morning Post, Insider.com, and many others.

In 2022, Netflix released a series about one of Todd’s clients: Anna Delvey/Anna Sorokin.

Why Clients Choose Spodek Law Group

The reason is simple: clients want white glove service, and lawyers who can win. Every single client who works with the Spodek Law Group is aware that the attorney they hire could drastically change the outcome of their case. Hiring the Spodek Law Group means you’re taking your future seriously. Our lawyers handle cases nationwide, ranging from NYC to LA. Our philosophy is fair and simple: our nyc criminal lawyers only take on clients who we know will benefit from our services.

We’re selective about the clients we work with, and only take on cases we know align with our experience – and where we can make a difference. This is different from other law firms who are not invested in your success nor care about your outcome.

If you have a legal issue, call us for a consultation.
We are available 24/7, to help you with any – and all, challenges you face.

What Causes An SEC Investigation?

By Spodek Law Group | July 11, 2023
(Last Updated On: July 28, 2023)

Last Updated on: 28th July 2023, 07:32 pm

Don’t Panic: Navigating SEC Investigations

Ever heard of the Securities and Exchange Commission? Commonly known as the SEC, this federal agency is like a hawk that watches over Wall Street and other financial hubs. But, what happens when you, or your business, comes under SEC scrutiny? Relax, that’s where Todd Spodek of the Spodek Law Group comes in handy.

Getting The Dreaded Call

Ever received a phone call from a number you didn’t recognize? Instead of the usual telemarketer, it’s the SEC on the line, wanting to discuss your financial affairs. These investigations can be triggered by a number of factors: reviewing financial reports, whistleblower reports, or even media coverage. Don’t worry, It doesn’t mean you are a certified baddie; sometimes it’s just part of their routine check-ups.

SEC Investigations: More Common Than You Think

People tend to become more complain-happy during a down economy, or when there are changes in SEC rules or new laws. The Dodd-Frank Act, for example, opened the floodgates for all sorts of complaints from peeved investors. This, in turn, increases the odds of SEC investigations.

Playing Detective: How the SEC Works

Unlike in movies, the SEC’s Division of Enforcement doesn’t kick down doors. They conduct investigations based on formal Orders of Investigation. These orders allow the Enforcement Division staff to call for any important information, either as document proof or witness testimony. While the SEC might not have superpowers to prosecute, they can certainly refer sticky cases to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. That’s when the action really begins!

Trigger Happy: Reasons for SEC Investigations

Generally, several key triggers can set off an SEC investigation:

– Unregistered securities offerings.
– Accounting deficiencies.
– Insider trading.
– Broker-dealer sales practices.
– Failure to supervise.
– Misleading or fraudulent disclosures.

Simply put, if you play fast and loose with the rules, you might attract some unwelcome attention.

A Tale of Two Investigations

Talking about tickling the dragon’s tail! SEC investigations come in two flavors: informal and formal. The informal one, a.k.a. Matter Under Inquiry (MUI), is usually the first stage. If matters escalate, though, you may find yourself starring in a formal investigation. Interestingly, the whole process is confidential and the investigation itself is not public. Ah, the sweet allure of secrecy!

Informal Investigations: The Friendly Round

Imagine you get into a jam with the SEC. The first significant step they’ll take is launching an informal investigation. Here, the SEC staff doesn’t have the power to strong-arm any information from you and they rely mostly on your goodwill. After the informal investigation, the SEC staff could simply close the case or decide to take it a step further to a formal investigation.

Formal Investigations: The Gloves Are Off

If you’ve gotten this far, it means the SEC believes there’s a high likelihood of securities law violation. Now, the SEC staff gets superhero powers of sorts. They can issue subpoenas and administer oaths. So, if a hard-nosed SEC officer turns up at your door, it’s time to get serious.

The Observer Effect: Responding to SEC Investigations

Let’s talk quantum physics for a moment. Ever heard of the observer effect? It says the mere act of observing something alters the thing being observed. Similarly, reacting recklessly to an SEC investigation might actually exacerbate the situation. Rule one: don’t panic. Rule two: align with a sharp-edged securities attorney like Todd, who can expertly guide you through the oft-complicated process.

Wells Notice: The Writing On The Wall

Ever heard of a Wells Notice? No, it’s not something that John Wells ever received. It’s actually a formal “intent to prosecute” warning from the SEC. If you receive one, it doesn’t mean you’re doomed. You’ll have a chance to respond with a Wells Submission – your defense brief.

Avoiding Public Water Cooler Moments

Tempting as it may be, an impending SEC investigation should not be the hot topic at the water cooler. Gossiping about it could stand against you later if it turns out that your “harmless chats” came under scrutiny during the investigation. At such a suspenseful time, the less said, the better!

SEC Enforcement Actions: The Fallout

Depending on the SEC staff’s recommendations, they may bring an enforcement action against you, seek redress in federal court, or decide to sweep the whole thing under the rug. Your fate will depend on a number of factors such as the gravity of allegations and the nature of the sanctions sought.

Surviving the Aftermath of SEC Enforcement Actions

If the SEC decides to take you to the cleaners, consequences may range from a stern slap on the wrist to massive fines or even criminal referrals. This is where expert legal defense comes in handy; someone like Todd and his team can be your knight in shining armor.

Bottom Line: Don’t Go It Alone

It’s clear as day: tangled with the SEC, you’re better off with a seasoned attorney calling the shots. So, if you receive that dreaded SEC phone call, don’t try to hoof it alone, let an expert do the heavy lifting!

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Testimonials

I was searching for a law firm with some power to help me deal with a warrant in New York . After 6 days I decided to go with Spodek Law Group. It helped that This law firm is well respected by not only the top law firms in New York , but the DA , Judge as well. I...

~Fonder Brandon

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It was my good fortune to retain Spodek Law Group for representation for my legal needs. From the beginning, communication was prompt and thorough. Todd, Kenneth and Alex were the first people I worked with and they all made me feel comfortable and confident that the team was going to work hard for me. Everything was explained and any concerns...

~A G

5 Stars
After meeting with several law firms, I chose the Spodek Law Group not only for their professionalism and experience, but for the personal attention given to me right from the initial consultation. It is important to recognize how crucial having the right legal team is when faced with potentially life altering events that impact families and the lives of loved...

~George Cherubini

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