Securities Fraud lawyer Allegany County, NY
Federal securities fraud charges in the Western District of New York carry the potential for decades in prison, crushing fines, and a federal conviction that follows you for life. For someone in Allegany County facing an SEC investigation, an FBI inquiry, or a grand jury subpoena, the time to secure experienced counsel is now—before prosecutors build their case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in federal criminal defense across New York, from our Buffalo location at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400; we serve Allegany County, including Wellsville, Alfred, Cuba, and the surrounding communities. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the firm’s Owner and Founder, directs every federal securities fraud matter alongside his Of Counsel team. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Securities Fraud Means in Allegany County, New York
Securities fraud is a federal felony—not a state or local charge—so it is prosecuted exclusively by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, covering Allegany County. The operative statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1348, which criminalizes knowing schemes to defraud in connection with securities of publicly traded companies. Unlike many white‑collar offenses, federal securities fraud carries a statutory maximum of 25 years in prison, and the conduct often triggers parallel civil enforcement by the Securities and Exchange Commission. in handling federal criminal matters in the Western District, cases routinely begin with an SEC investigation, an FBI search warrant, or a target letter directing the recipient to appear before a grand jury sitting in Buffalo or Rochester.
The maximum prison term for securities fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 is 25 years.
Source: 18 U.S.C. § 1348. Cornell Law
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Federal sentencing is governed by the United States Sentencing Guidelines, a point‑based system that considers the amount of loss, the number of victims, the defendant’s role in the offense, and other factors. Because there is no parole in the federal system, a defendant must serve at least 85 percent of the sentence imposed. Additionally, the government may seek forfeiture of assets derived from the alleged fraud, restitution to victims, and supervised release after incarceration. A conviction also results in a federal felony record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. For a resident of Allegany County, being forced to appear in a federal courtroom hours from home adds practical strain; our Buffalo location allows us to stay closely connected with clients and the court throughout the life of the case.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Securities Fraud Cases
Federal securities fraud investigations move fast, and the government often has a substantial head start. Our first priority is to prevent charges from being filed—if possible—by engaging with prosecutors and regulators at the earliest stage. When charges are already pending, we focus on securing reasonable pretrial release conditions, protecting assets from unnecessary restraint, and building a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts and the client’s goals.
Every securities fraud case involves a mountain of documents, trading records, wire transfers, and electronic communications. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team work through that material systematically, identifying gaps in the government’s evidence, evaluating alternative explanations for the trading activity, and challenging any improper investigative techniques. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which often leads the government to consider more favorable resolutions. Because federal courts in the Western District of New York have their own local practices and expectations for pretrial motions, discovery, and plea negotiations, we draw on our familiarity with the judges and procedures in Buffalo and Rochester to present the client’s position in a way that resonates with the court. We do not promise any particular result; every case is fact‑dependent, and outcomes vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997 after serving as a prosecutor. That prosecutorial background gives him a working knowledge of how federal investigators and Assistant U.S. Attorneys build white‑collar cases—knowledge he uses to protect clients accused of securities fraud. He is admitted to practice in all five of the firm’s jurisdictions—Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York—and has represented clients in federal districts across the country, including the Western District of New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Alongside Mr. Sris, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience in federal criminal defense, including former state prosecutors and litigators with a combined over 120 years of legal experience. The team handles federal matters collaboratively, ensuring that each client benefits from multiple perspectives without ever handing a case off to an unfamiliar attorney. All representation is by appointment, and the firm’s Buffalo location is available for in‑person meetings when needed. Results may vary. in any matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is securities fraud under federal law?
Securities fraud is a federal felony that occurs when someone knowingly engages in a deceptive scheme involving publicly traded securities. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1348, this includes making material misrepresentations, engaging in insider trading, or manipulating stock prices. The federal government must prove that the defendant acted with intent to defraud. Because the statute covers a broad range of conduct, an investigation may focus on a single trade or a years‑long pattern of alleged misconduct. Federal agencies including the FBI, the SEC, and the Department of Justice have extensive resources to investigate such offenses, and a conviction can carry a sentence of up to 25 years in prison.
How does a federal securities fraud case proceed in the Western District of New York?
A federal securities fraud case in the Western District of New York typically begins with an investigation that leads to a grand jury indictment. After an arrest or summons, the defendant appears before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for an initial appearance and arraignment. Pretrial motions address suppression of evidence, discovery disputes, and the scope of the charges. The parties may then engage in plea negotiations, or the case proceeds to trial before a federal district judge in Buffalo or Rochester. Because federal criminal cases operate under the Speedy Trial Act, the timeline moves more quickly than many state court matters, and early preparation is critical.
What are the potential penalties for securities fraud?
Federal securities fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 is punishable by up to 25 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million for individuals, and supervised release of up to five years. The United States Sentencing Guidelines calculate a recommended sentencing range based on the amount of financial loss, the defendant’s role, and other offense characteristics. Federal law also allows for asset forfeiture and restitution orders. Because there is no parole in the federal system, the actual prison time served will be at least 85 percent of the sentence imposed. Every case is different, and the actual sentence a particular defendant faces depends on the unique facts of the case.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for securities fraud?
Yes—if you are under investigation for securities fraud, you should not speak with law enforcement or regulators without an experienced federal criminal defense attorney present. Anything you say to the FBI, SEC, or any other agency can be used against you in a criminal prosecution. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, evaluate whether charges are likely, and begin building a defense before an indictment is returned. In our practice, early involvement of counsel sometimes leads to a decision by prosecutors not to file charges, but every situation is unique. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a securities fraud charge be dismissed?
A securities fraud charge may be dismissed if the government’s evidence is insufficient, if the indictment is defective, or if a pretrial motion demonstrates a violation of the defendant’s rights. Dismissal is not common in federal court, but defense counsel may identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that lead to a reduction of charges or a more favorable plea resolution. For example, if the government conducted an unlawful search or if the evidence does not establish the required intent to defraud, counsel may file a motion to suppress or dismiss. The viability of any defense depends entirely on the specific facts of the case.
How much does a federal securities fraud lawyer cost in Allegany County?
Legal fees for a federal securities fraud defense depend on the complexity of the case, the stage at which the attorney is retained, and the anticipated amount of work required. Because securities fraud cases can involve tens of thousands of pages of documents, expert witnesses, and months of trial preparation, fees reflect the substantial resources a law firm must commit. We discuss fee arrangements and payment plans during an initial consultation so that every client understands the financial commitment before the representation begins. To discuss your particular matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am contacted by the FBI or SEC about securities fraud?
If you are contacted by the FBI, the SEC, or any federal agent about securities fraud, you should politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact an attorney. Do not consent to a search of your home, vehicle, or electronic devices without a warrant. Do not discuss the matter with colleagues, friends, or family members, as those communications are not privileged and could be subpoenaed. Preserve all relevant documents and electronic data, but do not attempt to destroy anything—destruction of evidence could result in additional obstruction charges. Early legal guidance can make a significant difference in the direction of the investigation.
Why should I choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for my federal defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has practiced federal criminal defense since 1997, and Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, personally directs every securities fraud matter we handle. The firm is admitted in New York and four other jurisdictions, giving us a broad perspective on federal practice. Our Of Counsel team combines over 120 years of legal experience, allowing us to staff complex cases efficiently. We maintain a Buffalo location specifically to serve Western New York and the Southern Tier, including Allegany County, and we are available 24 hours a day by phone. To discuss your defense, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.
Will I have to go to trial for a federal securities fraud charge?
Not necessarily—many federal securities fraud cases are resolved through plea agreements, but every case must be prepared as if trial is a real possibility. The decision to go to trial is ultimately the client’s, based on a careful assessment of the evidence, the government’s willingness to negotiate, and the potential sentencing exposure. Our approach is to prepare each case thoroughly for trial from the outset, which gives our clients the strong $1 in any negotiations. If a trial is in the client’s best interest, our attorneys have extensive federal trial experience throughout New York.
Federal criminal defense practice overview | Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Homepage
18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Securities Fraud) |
U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York |
Securities and Exchange Commission
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.