By Mary Scott of Shustak Reynolds & Partners, P.C. posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2013.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) is making it easier than ever to research an investment professional’s background. On November 12, 2013, FINRA announced its release of an enhanced version of BrokerCheck, the online tool that allows investors to check the background of registered brokers and brokerage firms. In its news release, FINRA described the improved BrokerCheck as more intuitive, user-friendly, and a quick source of information that “can help [investors] decide if an investment professional is right for them.”

BrokerCheck is now available directly on the FINRA homepage, allowing investors to access it more easily. The BrokerCheck summary provides an easy-to-read snapshot of the professional’s background, including a timeline of their securities industry experience, disclosure events (which can include disciplinary actions), and registration/employment history. BrokerCheck is free to the public and may be accessed online at www.finra.org. FINRA also plans to make BrokerCheck available directly through certain third-party websites, which will allow even more users to utilize the tool.

Shustak Reynolds & Partners, P.C. handles a wide range of securities and FINRA-related issues and has substantial experience in the securities and brokerage business. If you believe you have been the victim of securities fraud, please contact our firm’s managing partner, Erwin Shustak, at 619.696.9500 or [email protected].

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