Specialized Defense for Financial Professionals
Our firm offers niche experience in defending against actions brought by key financial and state regulatory agencies. This specialization allows us to anticipate the regulator's tactics and build a defense strategy that is both comprehensive and custom-tailored to your unique circumstances.
CFA Institute Professional Conduct Program (PCP) Defense
Earning the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a significant professional achievement, and an inquiry from the CFA Institute's Professional Conduct Program (PCP) puts everything at risk. Whether you are a CFA Charterholder, Candidate, or Member, receiving a Notice of Investigation means you have a critical, limited window to act.
We provide experienced defense counsel for all stages of the PCP process, including the initial inquiry response, defense against a Statement of Charges, and representation before a Hearing Panel. Our services cover a wide range of alleged violations of the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, such as:
- Standard I: Professionalism (e.g., Knowledge of the Law, Independence and Objectivity).
- Standard III: Duties to Clients (e.g., Loyalty, Prudence, and Care; Fair Dealing).
- Standard VII: Responsibilities as a CFA Institute Member or Candidate.
Our team is also uniquely positioned to advise on reinstatement submissions for individuals who have received a prohibition from exam participation or a permanent revocation of their right to use the CFA designation. We advocate for you, bringing our growing body of knowledge on CFA PCP matters to pursue the most favorable outcome, whether the case is exam-related or industry-related.
CFP Board Disciplinary and Ethics Commission (DEC) Defense
Certified Financial Planner (CFPR) professionals are held to the highest ethical standard. An investigation initiated by the CFP Board Disciplinary and Ethics Commission (DEC), often triggered by client complaints, disclosures during renewal, or regulatory actions, demands immediate and skillful legal response.
We represent CFPR Professionals and Candidates throughout the CFP Board's disciplinary process, from the initial investigation and formal Complaint to the Hearing Panel and Appeal Committee. We understand that early legal counsel is crucial for a successful resolution. In these high-stakes matters, a public disciplinary action—which can include a Public Letter of Admonition, Suspension, or Revocation—can have devastating consequences. Our goal is to present a detailed and compelling defense that either leads to a dismissal of the allegations or a significantly mitigated sanction.
California DFPI Investigation and Audit Defense
The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI, formerly the Department of Business Oversight) is committed to vigorously regulating the state’s financial services market. Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) Representatives and firms operating across California, including our clients in Fresno and the greater Southern California region, frequently encounter DFPI inquiries, audits, and investigations.
Our attorneys help California RIA clients navigate the full scope of DFPI regulatory matters. This includes:
- Initial Inquiry Response: Providing a prompt, precise, and consistent response to regulatory letters to prevent the matter from escalating.
- Audit Examination Support: Assisting with online and on-site DFPI audits and subsequent follow-up issues.
- Accusation Defense: Representing licensees who have been served with a formal Accusation—a notice of intent to revoke a license—including negotiating a Stipulated Agreement or preparing for a Hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).
Our deep understanding of the California Corporations Code and relevant regulations, combined with our experience defending against financial regulatory bodies, gives our clients a distinct advantage.
Why Choose Klein DeNatale Goldner for Professional Liability?
Navigating professional disciplinary matters is not a task for general practitioners. It requires a firm that not only understands the nuances of the law but also the specific rules of the private and state-level conduct programs.
- Specialized Expertise: Our firm includes attorneys with specialized backgrounds in financial regulatory environments, including experience with previous regulatory bodies like the National Association of Securities Dealers (now FINRA) and the Department of Corporations (now DFPI). This insight is invaluable when crafting an effective defense.
- Aggressive and Compassionate Advocacy: We recognize that these are challenging times for our clients. We deliver the compassionate, personalized service of a local firm while providing the aggressive and effective representation needed to protect your professional future.
- California Reach and Focus: With offices in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Diego, and Santa Barbara, we are strategically positioned to serve and are knowledgeable about the legal and regulatory landscapes throughout Central and Southern California. Our commitment is to the communities we serve and the professionals who contribute to their growth.
We are selective in the cases we take, ensuring that every client receives the focused attention, effort, and responsiveness required to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you have received a Notice of Investigation, Complaint, or Accusation from the CFA Institute, the CFP Board, or the California DFPI, you cannot afford to delay. Your initial response is often the most critical stage of the entire process.
Contact Klein DeNatale Goldner today for a confidential consultation to secure skilled legal counsel that can make the difference in your professional liability matter.
Practice Area Attorneys to Contact
