Haselkorn & Thibaut has initiated a formal investigation into Barbara D. Bart, a former stockbroker and financial advisor who represented clients in Savannah, GA, and was most recently associated with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. If you worked with Barbara D. Bart and have questions regarding your accounts or potential losses, this research report provides a comprehensive, investor-focused overview to help you take the next step in protecting your financial interests. Take comfort in knowing that our dedicated team at Haselkorn & Thibaut, with over five decades of experience and a 98% success rate, is available to discuss your situation on a no recovery, no fee basis. Reach out now for a free consultation at 1 888-885-7162.
Professional Background: Barbara D. Bart (CRD #5404157), Merrill Lynch, Savannah GA
Table of Contents
Barbara D. Bart has served as a registered representative and financial advisor in Savannah, Georgia, and accumulated extensive industry experience. Her broker-dealer affiliations include:
- Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc.: 2009 – 2022
- Morgan Stanley Smith Barney: Brief affiliation in 2009
- Citigroup Global Markets Inc.: 2007 – 2009
After a lengthy tenure in the financial services sector, Barbara D. Bart is not currently registered with any FINRA-member firm. Notably, she has also had involvement in outside business activities, including Long Lake Plantation LLC (Trustee / Farm Manager) and associations with Victor Bruno.
Complaints & Disclosures: What Investors Need to Know
Publicly available databases such as FINRA’s BrokerCheck, court filings, and state and federal regulatory sites provide invaluable insight for investors seeking a transparent look at an advisor’s record. Here is a detailed analysis on Barbara D. Bart:
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| Customer Arbitrations & Lawsuits | A significant FINRA arbitration case, Case No. 22-02784, was brought by a Merrill Lynch customer alleging that over the period 2009 through 2017, Barbara D. Bart engaged in misappropriation of funds and made unsuitable investment recommendations. This case was initially filed in Georgia state court and then compelled to FINRA arbitration, ultimately being settled in June 2024 for $4.2 million. |
| Regulatory Actions | As of the most recent publicly available information, there are no SEC or state regulator disciplinary or enforcement actions naming Barbara D. Bart. |
| Criminal Proceedings | No criminal complaints or proceedings found. |
| Employment Disclosures | No employment separation events related to alleged misconduct have been posted in public databases. |
Summary Table: Investor Complaints and Allegations
| Date/Period | Allegation | Outcome / Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2009-2017 |
|
FINRA arbitration settlement for $4,200,000 (June 2024) |
Key Investor Takeaways: Red Flags for Past Clients
- Significant customer arbitration—a $4.2 million settlement for misappropriation of funds and unsuitable recommendations is a major red flag. If you are a former client and have not reviewed your account history or statements, it is strongly recommended you do so.
- Unsuitable investment recommendations—using lines of credit for unsuitable strategies exposes investors to unnecessary risk and potential losses. Always ask for clear justifications for major recommendations, especially those involving leverage.
- Advisor formerly with leading broker-dealers—while Barbara Bart had long affiliations with major firms, her current lack of registration prevents oversight and access to dispute resolution via traditional means.
Steps to Take If You Suffered Losses
If you suspect that you experienced losses in accounts managed by Barbara D. Bart, either at Merrill Lynch or her prior affiliations, document all account activity and correspondence. Timely action is often crucial for recovery, as claims may be subject to strict time limits under FINRA arbitration rules.
- Gather account statements and correspondence
- Record details of communications regarding unsuitable or confusing recommendations
- Contact Haselkorn & Thibaut for free, no-obligation review
Haselkorn & Thibaut—Your Nationwide Resource for Merrill Lynch Client Concerns
Our experienced attorneys at Haselkorn & Thibaut assist investors nationwide in recovering losses due to advisor or firm misconduct. With a proven 98% success rate and a contingency fee policy (no recovery, no fee), we offer focused, empathetic representation for families and individuals affected by broker or advisor issues.
As an investor, you have rights and resources. Whether your account was handled by Barbara D. Bart at Merrill Lynch in Savannah, GA, or another major broker-dealer, a confidential consultation can clarify your options and next steps.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you have questions or concerns about your investments, take the first step toward potential recovery. Call Haselkorn & Thibaut now at 1 888-885-7162 for your confidential, cost-free consultation.
Your financial future matters. Our national team is standing by to help you pursue justice and peace of mind. No recovery, no fee, and always your interests first.
