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Insider Trading

Spokane Insider Trading Attorney

Defending Those Who Have Been Accused Of Insider Trading in Washington

Insider trading is considered a serious crime that can result in severe penalties. At Maxey Law Office, our Spokane insider trading lawyer understands the complexities of these cases and has the in-depth legal knowledge to build a strong defense on your behalf. If you find yourself entangled in an insider trading case, we are here to help.

Call Maxey Law Office today at (509) 652-3330 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our insider trading lawyer in Spokane.

What is Insider Trading?

Insider trading is a complex and heavily regulated area of securities law that deals with the buying or selling of a company's stock or securities based on material, non-public information. Essentially, it involves individuals who possess inside information about a company making trades or tipping off others to trade based on that information. This unlawful practice undermines the integrity of the financial markets by providing an unfair advantage to those who have access to confidential information.

Insider trading can take various forms, including:

  • Traditional Insider Trading: This involves corporate insiders, such as executives, employees, or directors, who use non-public information to trade securities for personal gain.
  • Misappropriation Insider Trading: In this scenario, individuals who are not corporate insiders but have access to confidential information (e.g., lawyers, accountants, or consultants) use this information for personal gain.
  • Tipper-Tippee Insider Trading: A corporate insider (the tipper) provides material, non-public information to another person (the tippee), who then trades on that information.
  • Trading by Family Members or Friends: Friends or family members of corporate insiders who trade based on inside information can also be subject to insider trading allegations.

What are the Penalties for Insider Trading in Washington State?

Washington State, like the federal government, has strict laws and regulations in place to combat insider trading. Penalties for insider trading can be very severe, and they often include:

  • Criminal Penalties: Conviction of insider trading can result in substantial fines and imprisonment. Individuals involved in insider trading can face sentences of up to 20 years in prison, depending on the severity of the offense and the profits gained.
  • Civil Penalties: The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) can bring civil enforcement actions against individuals or entities involved in insider trading. If found liable, you may be subject to fines and the disgorgement of any ill-gotten gains.
  • Professional Consequences: Individuals convicted of insider trading may face professional sanctions, including the loss of licenses and job termination. Additionally, the reputational damage can be long-lasting.
  • Restitution: Courts may order convicted individuals to pay restitution to victims who suffered financial losses due to insider trading.

Defenses Against Insider Trading Charges

Some potential defenses against insider trading charges may include:

  • Lack of Material, Non-Public Information: To secure an insider trading conviction, the prosecution must prove that you possessed material, non-public information at the time of the trade. Challenging this element can be a key defense strategy.
  • Lack of Intent: You may argue that your actions were not driven by criminal intent and that you did not knowingly engage in insider trading.
  • Pre-existing Trading Plans: If you had a pre-existing trading plan in place, you might be able to demonstrate that the trades were not influenced by insider information.
  • Mistaken Identity: If you can prove that you were not the individual who executed the suspicious trades, you may have a valid defense.
  • Whistleblower Protections: If you reported the insider trading internally and were subsequently retaliated against, whistleblower protections may apply.

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Contact Our Insider Trading Lawyer in Spokane Today

When facing insider trading charges or allegations, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney by your side. At Maxey Law Office, we understand the complexities of securities laws, and we are dedicated to providing a robust defense tailored to your specific circumstances. Our Spokane insider trading attorney will assess your situation, explain your options, and develop a tailored strategy to defend your interests. Your future is important, and we are here to help you protect it.

Contact Maxey Law Office today to get started with our Spokane insider trading attorney.

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