Fake investment returns
Investors receive statements or payments that appear to reflect profits but are funded with later investors’ money.
Ponzi Scheme Lawyer
Ponzi schemes collapse when the money runs out — but recovery may still be possible from those who sold, supervised, or failed to disclose. We evaluate claims.
What it is
Returns paid with later investors’ money
A Ponzi scheme generally involves using money from newer investors to pay purported returns or redemptions to earlier investors, rather than generating legitimate investment profits. These schemes may be disguised as private funds, real-estate investments, promissory-note programs, trading programs, or businesses with fabricated revenue.
Victims may have claims against the person who operated the scheme, but recovery can also depend on whether brokers, advisors, financial institutions, accountants, attorneys, promoters, or other third parties participated in or failed to identify warning signs.
We evaluate the investment structure, communications, bank and account records, offering materials, payment history, and potential sources of recovery.
Common Types
Familiar investment language, false confidence
Ponzi schemes often use familiar investment language to create false confidence.
Misuse or diversion of investor funds
Money intended for a stated project or investment is diverted for personal expenses, unrelated ventures, or payments to other investors.
Promoter or advisor involvement
A broker, advisor, or promoter receives compensation for referring investors without adequately disclosing the risks or conflicts.
Warning Signs
Signs the investment was not what it claimed
These signs matter because early documentation can help trace money and identify responsible parties.
Save every investment document, bank record, wire confirmation, statement, email, text message, and promotional presentation.
- Returns were unusually consistent regardless of market conditions.
- The investment promoter discouraged independent verification.
- Redemptions or withdrawals were delayed or denied.
- Financial statements were vague, inconsistent, or unavailable.
- The investment depended heavily on new investor money.
How it works
From first call to recovery
Tell us what happened. We'll give you an honest read on what's possible — then do the work.
01 — Case review
We review your case at no cost
We listen, ask the hard questions, and assess whether you have a viable claim. No false promises.
02 — Investigation
We build the record
Account statements, broker records, regulatory filings — we identify the misconduct and document the damages.
03 — Arbitration or litigation
We file in the right forum
Most brokerage claims go to FINRA arbitration. We also litigate in state and federal court when the case demands it.
04 — Recovery
We account for any recovery
If there is a recovery, we handle distribution and account for every dollar. The fee arrangement — hourly or contingency — is explained before you hire us.
Common Questions
An early look at who else may be responsible
A Ponzi-scheme recovery effort requires an early, evidence-focused review.
Can victims recover their losses?
Recovery depends on the available assets, responsible parties, insurance, and legal claims. We can evaluate potential paths to recovery.
Should I report the scheme?
Reporting may be appropriate, but preserve records and obtain legal advice about your specific circumstances first.
Can I bring a claim against someone other than the promoter?
Potentially. The facts may support claims against advisers, brokers, firms, or others who facilitated or failed to supervise the conduct.
Free Consultation
Talk to us. The consultation is free.
Tell us what happened and we'll give you an honest assessment of what's possible.
St. Petersburg office
260 1st Ave. South, Suite 200-168
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
By appointment only
The consultation is free. Some matters are hourly, and some are contingency. On a contingency matter — No Recovery, No Fee — we do not collect an attorney's fee unless we recover for you. That fee is a percentage of the recovery. In some litigated matters we advance costs and expenses; those advanced costs are recovered from the gross recovery of any verdict or settlement. We explain the arrangement before you hire us.
