Home

Merrill Lynch

Do I have a claim against my stockbroker or other investment advisor?

Common Types of Claims

Investors Bill of Rights

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Free Case Evaluation

Just Call John!
I understand that a tragic accident or unexpected event can be devastating, causing tremendous damage and loss. The lawyers and case managers of our firm are dedicated to helping you during this difficult and trying time. Through aggressive, prompt, and professional legal representation, we will help protect your rights and get you the money you truly deserve.

Call Toll Free

1-800-225-5564
24 Hours / 7 Days A Week
A Bales Professional Association

Frequently Asked Questions
securities.johnbales.com

1. Will I have to go through arbitration or a trial in court before my case is completed?
   
   Not necessarily. While some cases do require a formal arbitration or trial proceeding, many of our cases are settled before such time. At John Bales, we will make every good faith effort to settle your case. However, if the defendants will not act in good faith, we are prepared to proceed to arbitration or trial.
   

2. I have heard that arbitrations and lawsuits take a long time. Is that true with securities cases?
   
   Securities cases do not necessarily take any longer than any other case, but stockbroker, investment advisor, financial planner, and insurance companies often try to drag them out. Securities claims are often delayed because the investment advisors know they will ultimately have to pay. In other words, they know that they made a harmful mistake. We work hard to prevent these delays.
   

3. I know lawyers can be expensive. How does your firm charge?
   
   You pay us nothing unless and until we recover money for you. Our fee is a percentage of that recovery. Fees are calculated prior to deducting for costs.
   

4. I do not know how much money I should ask for or expect. What kind of damages are typically included in a settlement?
   
   A typical securities claim may include a claim for damages in the amount of your loss or the unrelieved profits that should have been received. Also, attorneys’ fees and costs may be awarded, depending on the claim.
   

5. It’s taken me several months to work up the nerve to do anything about my situation. Am I running out of time to file for arbitration or a lawsuit against my brokers, brokerage houses, fund managers, retirement plan sponsors, investment advisors, and financial planners?
   
   You may still have time, but contact a securities attorney at John Bales now to be sure. We will evaluate your case and advise you on how to proceed.
   
   Please be aware that if you are interested in pursuing a claim, all claims may be forever barred if not brought within a certain time limit. The time limit, also known as the statute of limitations, varies for different types of claims. Therefore, if you have any interest in pursuing your claim, you should retain an attorney immediately to protect your rights from the expiration of the statutes of limitation.
   

6. I do not know who or what caused the large loss in my account. What should I do?
   
   An excellent question. We wish more people would ask this. Our advice to you is to look at all of your records and ask questions in writing and ask for responses in writing. Make sure you keep all of your records; no matter how insignificant it may seem at the time it is received. If your brokers, brokerage houses, fund managers, retirement plan sponsors, investment advisors, or financial planners tells you that your investments are “in good shape,” but you do not believe they are, make another appointment. Educate yourself on what’s happening. Use the library and the Internet to find out about your investments.
   
   Have your investment advisor write everything down. If they fail to respond to any question, write a letter asking why a response has not been received. If the investment advisor refuses to respond or you wish to discuss your case before speaking with anyone, call John Bales promptly for recommendations on how to proceed.
   

Contact a John Bales Florida Securities Lawyer today! Complete a FREE Online Consultation Form or Call us toll free 1-800-CALL JOHN (1-800-225-5564) 24 hours, 7 days a week!

Merrill Lynch | Do I Have a Claim | Common Types of Claims | Bill of Rights | FAQ | Resources | Free Case Evaluation

Auto Accidents
The roads can be dangerous to navigate. When you've been injured in an auto accident you need an auto accident lawyer...

Defective Products
When you or a family member has been injured by a defective product, John Bales looks out for your legal rights...

Drug Injuries
All too often, drug companies put profits over the public's welfare. By the time the FDA can do anything, it is sometimes too late...

Insurance Claim Disputes
Insurance Claim Disputes are not supposed to happen. The purpose of insurance is to help you...

Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when doctors or hospitals cause injury to a trusting patient by failing to provide acceptable care...

Mold Damage Claims
Florida mold is most likely to grow where there is water or dampness - You need a mold lawyer...

Motorcycle Accidents
The Florida motorcycle accident lawyers at John Bales Attorneys are here to help you...

Nursing Home Abuse
Abuse and neglect have become serious concerns for those with loved ones in nursing homes. A nursing home lawyer can help...

Securities / Stock Broker Disputes
Through a nationwide network of attorneys, we are able to handle securities/stock broker claims anywhere in the United States...

Sinkhole Damage Claim
Sinkholes are responsible for devastating losses to homeowners and exist throughout Florida...

Tractor-Trailer Accidents
If you have been involved in an accident with a big truck, contact a tractor-trailer accident lawyer today...