Dispute Disclosures & Regulatory Record Management Attorney in Los Angeles 

Legal Guidance on Disclosure Disputes

BrokerCheck Disclosures (BD)

FINRA’s BrokerCheck system is often the first stop for investors, firms, and regulators evaluating a broker’s background. 

Reportable events may include:

• Customer complaints and arbitrations
• Regulatory inquiries and disciplinary actions
• Terminations or internal reviews
• Criminal or civil matters related to financial activity

Even unproven allegations or settled disputes can remain publicly visible, shaping perception regardless of outcome. 

We advise brokers on:

• Whether an event is properly reportable
• How disclosures should be framed and updated
• Responding to inaccurate, duplicative, or misleading entries
• Long-term strategies for mitigating disclosure impact

Expungement of Customer Dispute Information

Expungement is one of the most powerful—but narrowly applied—tools available to financial professionals. 

FINRA permits expungement only in limited circumstances, such as where:

• The claim is factually impossible or clearly erroneous
• The broker was not involved in the alleged conduct
• The allegation is false

We represent brokers in FINRA arbitration expungement proceedings, including:

• Stand-alone expungement cases
• Expungement sought in connection with settled arbitrations
• Post-award court confirmation proceedings

Our approach is evidence-driven, compliance-focused, and aligned with FINRA’s heightened scrutiny of expungement requests.

RIA & IAPD Disclosure Issues

Registered Investment Advisers face a parallel but distinct disclosure regime under the SEC and state regulators. Disclosures appear on Form ADV and through the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) system.

We counsel RIAs and advisory personnel on:

• Form ADV disclosure obligations and amendments
• Responding to regulatory inquiries tied to past conduct
• Managing disclosures related to legacy broker activity
• Coordinating disclosure strategy during firm transitions or restructurings

For dually registered professionals, alignment between BrokerCheck and IAPD disclosures is critical to avoid inconsistencies that raise regulatory red flags.

Voluntary Disclosures & Regulatory Strategy

Not all disclosures are triggered by enforcement actions or complaints. In some situations, voluntary disclosure may be required or strategically advisable to mitigate future exposure.

We assist clients in evaluating:

• Whether a voluntary disclosure is required or prudent
• Timing and scope of disclosure to regulators or firms
• How voluntary reporting may affect licensing, registration, or examinations
• Risk mitigation strategies following disclosure

Handled correctly, voluntary disclosure can demonstrate good faith and compliance awareness. Handled poorly, it can create unnecessary regulatory exposure.

Arbitration Exclusions & Disclosure Defense

Certain arbitration outcomes, settlements, or dismissals may qualify for exclusion from reportable disclosure—or support later expungement efforts. 

We analyze arbitration records to determine:

• Whether disclosure is required under FINRA rules
• Whether an exclusion applies
• How arbitration language affects future disclosure posture

Our representation extends to defending brokers and advisers against customer claims where disclosure issues are central to the dispute.

Why Disclosure Counsel Matters

Disclosure records follow professionals across firms, jurisdictions, and career stages. Once published, inaccurate or unnecessary disclosures can be difficult—but not impossible—to undo.

The Law Offices of Jonathan W. Evans & Associates brings a deep understanding of:

• FINRA reporting rules and enforcement priorities
• Arbitration and expungement standards
• SEC and state adviser disclosure requirements
• The real-world impact of disclosures on careers and firms

We approach each matter with the goal of accuracy, compliance, and long-term professional protection.

Speak With a Disclosure & Expungement Attorney

If you are facing disclosure issues involving BrokerCheck, expungement, RIA reporting, voluntary disclosures, or arbitration-related exclusions, experienced counsel can make a decisive difference.

The Law Offices of Jonathan W. Evans & Associates represents brokers, advisers, and firms nationwide in matters involving regulatory disclosures and professional record management.

Contact us online or call us at (818) 760-9880 to discuss your situation and explore your options.