Ponzi Scheme
Ponzi schemes are a devastating form of investment fraud that leave victims with significant financial losses. If you’ve fallen victim to a Ponzi scheme at the hands of your investment professionals, you need experienced legal representation to reclaim your assets.
At Varnavides Law, PC, we specialize in securities law and FINRA arbitration for Ponzi scheme victims, offering personalized strategies to hold fraudsters accountable and pursue recovery.
What Is a Ponzi Scheme?
A Ponzi scheme is a fraudulent investment scam that lures you with promises of high returns and low risk, but it relies on funds from new investors to pay earlier ones—creating a false sense of profitability.
Named after Charles Ponzi, these schemes often target unsuspecting investors through stocks, real estate, or other assets, but they inevitably collapse, devastating your financial security.
We at Varnavides Law, PC stand as your advocate in pursuing justice.
Legal Options for Victims of Ponzi Schemes
Falling victim to a Ponzi scheme can be financially and emotionally devastating. Many investors lose not only their savings but also their trust in financial institutions and advisors.
If you have been defrauded in a Ponzi scheme, it is important to know that you have legal rights and avenues for recovery.
Civil Lawsuits: Victims can file lawsuits against the individuals or companies responsible for the fraud. These claims often include fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence, or unjust enrichment. Successful claims can result in financial compensation.
Asset Recovery and Clawbacks: Even when funds have been dispersed, victims may still be able to recover money through asset tracing and clawback actions. Courts can order that fraudulent transfers be reversed so that funds can be redistributed fairly among victims.
Bankruptcy Proceedings: In large Ponzi scheme cases, perpetrators often declare bankruptcy. Victims can file claims in the bankruptcy process to recover a portion of their losses from any remaining assets.
Restitution Orders in Criminal Cases: If the fraudster is prosecuted, courts may order restitution, requiring them to repay victims as part of the criminal sentencing.
While recovery is not always immediate or complete, pursuing legal remedies can help victims regain lost funds and hold perpetrators accountable.
Note that this content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not create, an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique, and the outcomes of any legal matter depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved.
If you need legal help, our experienced Ponzi scheme lawyer can guide you through the process, represent your interests, and improve your chances of financial recovery.
How a Ponzi Scheme Lawyer Can Help
If you have lost money in a Ponzi scheme, the road ahead can feel overwhelming. Many victims are left wondering if they will ever recover their savings or hold those responsible accountable. This is where an experienced Ponzi scheme lawyer becomes your advocate.
Investigating the Fraud: A lawyer can thoroughly examine the scheme, trace where your money went, and identify potential avenues for recovery.
Pursuing Legal Action: Whether through individual lawsuits, class actions, or bankruptcy claims, your attorney can file the necessary actions to fight for your compensation.
Navigating Complex Procedures: Ponzi scheme cases often involve multiple victims, complicated financial records, and overlapping state and federal laws. A lawyer helps you make sense of these complexities and ensures that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Working Toward Restitution: In cases where the fraudster faces criminal prosecution, your attorney can help position you to benefit from restitution orders, ensuring your losses are included in the court’s consideration.
Providing Guidance and Support: Beyond legal representation, a skilled Ponzi scheme lawyer understands the emotional toll such fraud takes. They can guide you through the process with compassion and clarity, helping you make informed decisions at every step.
At its core, hiring a Ponzi scheme lawyer gives you an ally dedicated to fighting for justice and working to recover what was wrongfully taken from you.
Ready to explore your options? Contact us for a free consultation.
Why Choose Varnavides Law Firm?
At Varnavides Law Firm, we know that being defrauded in a Ponzi scheme is more than just a financial loss — it can affect your security, your future, and your peace of mind. Our mission is to stand up for victims and help them reclaim what was taken.
Experience in Financial Fraud Recovery: We have a proven background in handling complex Ponzi scheme cases. From tracing hidden assets to navigating bankruptcy courts, we use every legal tool available to fight for victim compensation.
Compassionate, Client-First Advocacy: We understand the stress and uncertainty that victims face. Our team takes the time to listen to your story, explain your options in plain language, and guide you step by step through the recovery process.
Relentless Pursuit of Justice: Whether through civil lawsuits, class actions, or working alongside prosecutors, we are dedicated to holding fraudsters accountable. We fight to recover as much of your investment as possible and to give you a voice in the legal process.
Proven Results: Our track record includes successfully representing victims in financial fraud cases, helping them secure meaningful recoveries and rebuild after devastating losses.
At Varnavides Law Firm, we don’t just handle your case — we stand beside you as a partner in your fight for justice.
We Pursue Justice for Victims of Deceptive Investment Schemes
If you need expert legal representation for a Ponzi scheme case, contact Varnavides Law Firm today. Our team is ready to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Call us or visit our office to schedule a consultation. Don’t wait – let us help you protect your rights.
Investment Fraud
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ponzi Schemes
Who do I report a Ponzi scheme to?
Ponzi schemes are serious federal and state crimes, and there are multiple authorities you can report them to, including:
- The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): Handles securities fraud and large investment scams.
- The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA): Oversees brokers and investment firms.
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Investigates financial crimes, including Ponzi schemes.
- State Securities Regulators: Each state has its own agency that enforces securities laws.
- Local Law Enforcement: Especially if you believe immediate criminal activity is occurring.
Reporting the scheme to the proper authorities can help stop further fraud, protect other investors, and strengthen your chances of financial recovery.
What to do if you have been contacted by authorities?
If you’ve been contacted by authorities as a victim in a Ponzi scheme investigation, we recommend consulting us immediately.
We can guide you through the process with empathy, explain your rights as an investor, and represent your interests to ensure your voice is heard without compromising your position.
Can you sue someone for a Ponzi scheme?
Yes. Victims of Ponzi schemes have the right to pursue civil lawsuits against the perpetrators in order to recover their losses.
Lawsuits can be based on fraud, breach of contract, unjust enrichment, or other legal claims. In many cases, victims may also join class action lawsuits with other investors. Additionally, if the scheme is tied to a bankruptcy proceeding, victims can file claims to recover a portion of the remaining assets.
Having a lawyer experienced in financial fraud is essential to navigate this process and maximize recovery.
What should I do if I suspect I've been involved in a Ponzi scheme?
If you suspect that you have been involved in a Ponzi scheme, it is important to seek legal advice immediately. A lawyer can help you assess your situation and determine the best course of action, whether it’s reporting the fraud or pursuing legal claims for your losses.
How can I recover losses from a Ponzi scheme?
Victims of Ponzi schemes can seek to recover their losses by filing civil lawsuits against the perpetrators. In some cases, they may also be able to participate in class action lawsuits or pursue claims through the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or other regulatory bodies.
What is the statute of limitations for Ponzi scheme cases?
The statute of limitations for Ponzi schemes depends on the specific charges, but generally ranges from two to ten years under federal law, and can vary significantly by state and the specific claims made (e.g., fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud).
The clock typically starts running from the date of the last violation or the discovery of the fraud, rather than when it was committed, thanks to the discovery rule.
