What You Need To Know To File A Complaint
Dear Complainant:
The purpose of this complaint form is to alert the Ohio Division of Securities to
potential violations of the Ohio Securities Act. Please fill out the Complaint Form
as completely as possible to enable us to properly assess your situation. If you
have any questions concerning your complaint or the form, please feel free to contact
the Enforcement Section at (614) 466-6140. The Division appreciates the time and
effort you expend in bringing this matter to our attention and we will be happy
to assist you in any way within our authority.
So that you will better understand the Division's abilities and limitations, please
review the following information.
What we can do:
The Division pursues possible violations of the Ohio Securities Act, Chapter 1707
of the Ohio Revised Code. We investigate complaints against persons, business entities,
corporations, and broker-dealers alleged to have violated licensing, registration,
or anti-fraud provisions of the Ohio Securities Act. The Division has the authority
to bring an administrative action (for example, a Cease and Desist Order) against
an entity for proven violations and, in appropriate cases, may refer matters to
the county prosecutor's office for criminal prosecution. Please note that your complaint
will be held in confidence except in those situations where your identification
will facilitate an early resolution of your complaint, such as in the case of a
dispute with a broker-dealer. In addition, if the Division finds that it is unable
to assist you, we will attempt to refer your complaint to another agency who can
provide assistance.
What we cannot do:
The function of the Division is analogous to that of a police department; we are
authorized to investigate and prosecute violations of law which fall within our
jurisdiction. We are unable to cancel any agreement or contract, order that your
money be refunded, give legal advice or act as your attorney, or act as a court
of law. The Division is also bound by statutory time limitations; thus, we are unable
to pursue alleged violations that occurred more than five years ago (R.C.ยง1707.28).
In addition, the Division does not have any authority or control over how a company
conducts its internal business affairs; we cannot require a company to provide you
with financial statements, reports or updates, or hold a shareholder meeting. If
you have lost money or object to the way a business is being run, your personal
attorney can advise you on whether to proceed with a private cause of action.
I have read and understand the above information:
Submit a complaint over the Internet
Submit a complaint through the traditional mail