Michael J. Betts LLC

Securities and financial fraud consultation: 412-899-6827

Michael J. Betts LLC
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Experienced Securities And Financial Fraud Lawyer In Pittsburgh, PA

Michael J. Betts

Steadfast Representation Of Securities Professionals In Pittsburgh

Working in the financial industry can be challenging, especially when a single regulatory inquiry or client dispute can threaten your career. Financial and securities professionals, including registered representatives, investment advisers and broker-dealers, need proactive legal guidance to protect their professional licenses and reputations.

Attorney Michael J. Betts understands these high-stakes challenges. With over 45 years of experience, he offers a dedicated and focused approach to the representation of securities professionals in regulatory investigations, hearings and litigation. By being selective about the cases he takes, he ensures every client receives the hands-on attention and strategic guidance they need to protect their rights and their career.

Navigating Regulatory And Disciplinary Matters

When a regulatory body initiates an investigation, your career and reputation are at stake. A single customer complaint, internal audit or surveillance report can lead to a formal investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Attorney Betts provides legal counsel during these industry investigations, helping you understand your obligations and respond effectively.

For example, if you receive a Wells Notice, it means the SEC staff has found a basis for recommending an enforcement action against you. This is a serious matter that demands an immediate, strategic response. Attorney Michael J. Betts can help you prepare a formal response, known as a Wells submission, to argue against the recommended action.

If an investigation proceeds, it may lead to disciplinary proceedings or a hearing before a regulatory panel. These hearings can result in significant penalties, including fines, suspensions or being barred from the industry. Attorney Betts assists in preparing for these hearings and provides a strong defense to protect your professional license.

Representation In Litigation And Arbitration

In addition to regulatory matters, securities professionals may face litigation from clients who allege wrongdoing. These claims can include:

  • Fraud: Using intentional deception or misrepresentation to induce an investor to make a financial decision that results in a loss
  • Breach of fiduciary duty: Failing to act in their client’s best interest, for example, by putting their own interests ahead of the client’s
  • Unauthorized trading: When a broker or other securities professional buys or sells securities in a client’s account without their permission

Many of these disputes are handled through FINRA arbitration, a forum for resolving conflicts between investors and securities firms or professionals. Attorney Michael J. Betts has extensive experience in securities litigation and arbitration, and can provide a strategic and dedicated defense to pursue a favorable resolution.

Legal Counsel For Employment Disputes And Compliance Matters

Attorney Michael J. Betts provides legal assistance for a variety of employment disputes that arise between securities professionals and their firms. He provides broker-dealer representation and investment adviser counsel to professionals facing:

  • Compensation and termination disputes: These conflicts can arise from issues related to your employment agreement such as disputes over unpaid bonuses, commissions or deferred compensation. These also include claims of wrongful termination or retaliatory discharge.
  • Breach of contract: This occurs when either you or your firm fails to fulfill the obligations outlined in an employment contract such as noncompete clauses, employee forgivable loans (EFLs) or restrictive covenants.
  • Form U4/U5 issues: An inaccurate or damaging disclosure on your Form U4 or U5 can have a lasting negative impact on your career and may trigger a regulatory investigation. Attorney Betts can help you contest false or defamatory information to protect your reputation and professional license.

Many professionals need legal guidance on compliance matters to avoid regulatory issues in the first place. Attorney Betts can assist you with firm audits, offering counsel to ensure you are prepared for regulatory scrutiny and are complying with federal, state and self-regulatory organization (SRO) rules.

Protect Your Career And Reputation: Call Michael J. Betts LLC Today

When your future is on the line, you need experienced legal counsel you can trust. When it comes to the representation of securities professionals, attorney Michael J. Betts brings decades of experience and knowledge to each case. Schedule a consultation with him at his Pittsburgh office today. Call him at 412-899-6827 or fill out his online form to get started.