Losing money to annuity fraud can feel devastating. It shakes your trust and can severely impact your financial future, especially if you’re relying on those funds for retirement or long-term care. Finding the right legal help is key to getting back on track.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of understanding annuity fraud, gathering your information, and selecting an investment fraud attorney who can fight for your recovery. We’ll give you clear, actionable steps and point you to the best resources to make an informed decision in 2025.

Understanding Annuity Fraud and Your Options

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When you put your trust and your hard-earned money into an annuity, you expect it to provide a secure future. Unfortunately, some financial advisors and brokers betray that trust, leading to significant financial losses. Knowing what annuity fraud looks like is the first step toward protecting yourself and seeking justice.

What is Annuity Fraud? (Definition)

Annuity fraud occurs when a financial professional misrepresents or manipulates the terms of an annuity, or sells an unsuitable annuity product, causing financial harm to the investor. Annuities are complex financial products designed to provide a steady income stream, often during retirement. They come in various forms, including fixed, variable, and equity-indexed annuities. While they can be legitimate tools for financial planning, their complexity makes them ripe for exploitation by dishonest agents.

Fraud can involve a range of deceptive practices. These might include lying about the annuity’s risks, exaggerating its potential returns, hiding fees, or convincing someone to buy an annuity that simply doesn’t fit their financial situation or goals. Sometimes, it also involves “churning,” where an advisor encourages frequent annuity exchanges to generate new commissions for themselves, regardless of the cost to the client.

Why Annuity Fraud Matters to You

The impact of annuity fraud is often profound. For many, annuities represent a lifetime of savings meant to secure retirement. When these funds are lost or significantly diminished due to fraudulent practices, it can lead to immense stress, a loss of independence, and a compromised quality of life. The problem is especially acute for older investors, who may have limited time to recover from such losses. The financial services industry is a multi-trillion dollar sector, making annuity fraud a significant threat to countless individuals. Rikard & Protopapas (Investor Loss Center) notes that swift action is important due to statutes of limitations, emphasizing that time is usually not on your side.

Beyond the direct financial hit, there’s the emotional toll. Trusting a professional with your future, only to be betrayed, can be a deeply personal and upsetting experience. Pursuing a claim isn’t just about recovering money; it’s also about holding those accountable who engage in misconduct and preventing them from harming others.

A Brief History of Annuity Scams (Recent Trends)

Annuity scams aren’t new, but they evolve with the market. Historically, misrepresentation of guaranteed returns and high-pressure sales tactics have been common. More recently, with an aging population, elder financial abuse has become a major concern, with seniors often targeted for unsuitable annuity sales. These products can carry long surrender periods and high fees, trapping older investors in illiquid assets they don’t need or understand.

In 2025, we’re seeing continued regulatory scrutiny, with bodies like the SEC and FINRA increasing their oversight of complex financial products. This means more enforcement actions and new avenues for investors to seek recovery. For instance, the collapse of firms like Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda) and issues with high-yield, speculative products like GWG Holdings L-Bonds have highlighted how complex and interconnected investment fraud can be. Many investors suffered losses in these types of investments due to unsuitable recommendations, often involving annuities or annuity-like structures. This trend underscores the need for specialized legal help that understands these intricate cases and can navigate complex investment fraud investigations.

What You’ll Need Before Starting Your Search

Before you even pick up the phone to call a law firm, getting your ducks in a row will make the entire process smoother and more efficient. Think of it like preparing for a doctor’s appointment; having all your symptoms and medical history ready helps the doctor diagnose your issue faster.

Required Tools and Resources

Account Statements: Gather all quarterly or annual statements related to your annuity. These documents show the annuity’s performance, fees charged, and any transactions.
Annuity Contracts and Prospectuses: These are the legal documents detailing the terms, conditions, riders, fees, and fine print of your annuity. They are crucial for your lawyer to understand what was promised versus what was delivered.
Correspondence: Keep emails, letters, or even written notes from phone calls with your financial advisor or the annuity company. Any communication that discusses the annuity’s features, risks, or suitability can be valuable evidence.
Financial Advisor’s Records: If you have any suitability questionnaires, risk tolerance forms, or investment profiles completed with your advisor, these can show what your stated financial goals were at the time of purchase.
Personal Financial Records: Documents showing your income, assets, liabilities, and overall financial situation at the time you purchased the annuity. This helps establish whether the annuity was truly “unsuitable” for your circumstances.

Prerequisites and Preparation

Beyond collecting documents, a little mental preparation goes a long way. Take some time to write down everything you remember about the annuity purchase. When did it happen? Who was your advisor? What did they tell you? What were your expectations, and how did they differ from reality? The more details you can recall, the better your initial consultation will be.

Also, try to articulate what you hope to achieve by pursuing a claim. Are you looking to recover all your losses, or just a portion? Do you want punitive damages? Understanding your own goals will help you communicate effectively with potential law firms and ensure they are aligned with your objectives.

Our Recommended Legal Partner: Investment Fraud Lawyers

When you’re dealing with the complexities of annuity fraud, you need a law firm that truly understands the terrain. That’s why we recommend Investment Fraud Lawyers. With 50 years of experience, they stand out in the field. They’ve recovered millions for investors across the nation, boasting a 98% success rate. The best part? They operate on a “No Recovery, No Fee” basis, which means you don’t pay unless they win your case. This commitment shows their confidence in their ability to fight for you without adding financial pressure to an already stressful situation. They are dedicated to helping victims of securities fraud, investment fraud, and stockbroker misconduct, including those involving annuities. You can connect with them directly at 1-888-885-7162.

Try Investment Fraud Lawyers: InvestmentFraudLawyers.com

Step-by-Step: How to Find the Right Annuity Fraud Law Firm

Navigating the legal landscape after experiencing annuity fraud can feel overwhelming. This step-by-step guide is designed to make the process clearer and empower you to find the legal representation you need.

Step 1: Recognize the Signs of Annuity Fraud

Before you can seek legal help, you need to understand what constitutes annuity fraud. It’s not always an obvious scam. Often, it’s about subtle misrepresentations or unsuitable recommendations made by a trusted financial advisor. Here are some common red flags to watch for:

Misrepresentation of Terms: The advisor lied about or significantly downplayed complex features like surrender charges, liquidity restrictions, market risks, or fees associated with the annuity. They might have promised “guaranteed” returns that were actually tied to market performance or specific conditions.
Unsuitability: The annuity recommended did not align with your age, financial goals, risk tolerance, or liquidity needs. For example, a long-term, illiquid annuity might be unsuitable for an elderly person who needs access to their funds. Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP actively investigates cases where products are unsuitable for the investor.
Excessive Fees or Commissions: Annuities can carry high commissions for advisors. If your advisor pushed an annuity with unusually high fees, or recommended frequent “switching” or “churning” between annuities, it might have been motivated by commissions rather than your best interest. This is a common form of sales abuse in variable annuities.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Feeling rushed into a decision, pressured to sign documents without full comprehension, or being told this is a “limited-time” opportunity.
Failure to Disclose Risks: The advisor emphasized benefits but failed to clearly explain potential downsides, market risks, or the possibility of losing principal.
Unauthorized Transactions: Funds were moved into or out of an annuity without your explicit written consent.
Elder Exploitation: Vulnerable older adults are often targeted, with advisors convincing them to purchase complex annuities they don’t understand, often draining their savings. This is a form of elder financial abuse.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s a strong indicator that you should seek legal advice.

Step 2: Gather All Relevant Documentation

As mentioned earlier, collecting documents is critical. Organize everything you have related to your annuity. This includes:

Your original annuity application and contract.
All statements (annual, quarterly, monthly) since the annuity’s inception.
Any riders or amendments to the contract.
Correspondence (emails, letters) with your financial advisor or the annuity company.
Notes from meetings or phone calls.
Financial statements that demonstrate your net worth, income, and investment objectives at the time of purchase.
Tax documents showing any distributions or tax implications from the annuity.

Having these documents ready will allow an Investment Fraud Lawyers firm to quickly assess the merits of your case during the initial consultation. The more detailed your records, the stronger your potential claim.

Step 3: Research Potential Law Firms Specializing in Annuity Fraud

Not all lawyers handle investment fraud, and not all investment fraud lawyers specialize in annuities. You need a firm with proven expertise in this specific area. Look for firms that:

Focus on Investor Rights: They represent investors, not brokers or financial institutions.
Handle FINRA Arbitration: Many annuity fraud cases are resolved through FINRA arbitration, an industry-specific dispute resolution process. Your firm should have extensive experience here.
Have a Track Record of Success: Look for firms that highlight millions recovered for clients and a high success rate.
Offer Free Consultations: This allows you to explore your options without upfront cost.
Work on a Contingency Basis: This means they only get paid if they successfully recover money for you, aligning their interests with yours. Many reputable firms, including Wolper Law Firm, P.A. and Morgan & Morgan Business Trial Group, offer this.

Examples of firms referenced in our research that specialize in this area include Gana Weinstein LLP, Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP, Rikard & Protopapas (Investor Loss Center), Wolper Law Firm, P.A., and Morgan & Morgan Business Trial Group. These firms represent a good starting point for your research, along with Investment Fraud Lawyers.

Step 4: Schedule Consultations and Ask Key Questions

Once you’ve identified a few potential firms, schedule initial consultations. Most reputable firms offer these for free. This is your chance to interview them. Prepare a list of questions, such as:

What is your experience with annuity fraud cases specifically?
How many cases similar to mine have you handled, and what were the outcomes?
What is your typical approach to these cases (e.g., FINRA arbitration, litigation)?
What are your fees, and how are they structured (e.g., contingency, hourly)?
What is the estimated timeline for a case like mine?
What percentage of my potential recovery would you take?
Who will be my primary contact person, and how often will I receive updates?
What are the potential risks or challenges in my case?

Listen carefully to their responses. A good lawyer will explain things clearly, set realistic expectations, and listen intently to your story. Trust your gut feeling about the firm and the individual attorney you speak with.

Step 5: Evaluate Firms and Make Your Decision

After your consultations, compare the firms. Consider:

Expertise: Do they truly understand annuity products and the specific regulations (like FINRA rules) that apply?
Communication: Did they explain things in a way you understood? Do you feel comfortable communicating with them?
Fee Structure: Is the fee arrangement transparent and fair, ideally a “No Recovery, No Fee” model if possible?
Track Record: Do they have a history of successful recoveries in similar cases?
Resources: Do they have the resources and staff to handle your case effectively, especially if it’s complex?

Remember, this is a significant decision. Choose the firm that instills the most confidence and seems genuinely committed to your cause.

Step 6: Initiate the Legal Process

Once you’ve chosen a law firm, they will guide you through the next steps. This typically involves:

Formal Engagement: Signing a retainer agreement that outlines the terms of representation, including fees and responsibilities.
Detailed Case Review: Your attorney will conduct a thorough review of all your documents and discuss your case in greater detail to build a strong strategy.
Filing the Claim: Depending on the specifics, your attorney will file a Statement of Claim with FINRA Dispute Resolution Services or initiate a lawsuit in court.
Discovery: Both sides will exchange information and evidence.
Negotiation/Mediation: Many cases settle before going to a full hearing or trial.
Arbitration/Trial: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case proceeds to a hearing before a FINRA arbitration panel or a court trial.

Your role will be to cooperate fully with your legal team, provide any requested information, and be available for discussions and potential testimony.

Example: A Typical Annuity Fraud Case

Imagine a retired couple, John and Jane, in their late 70s. They relied on their financial advisor for years, trusting his judgment. Their advisor convinced them to surrender an existing, low-cost annuity and purchase a new variable annuity, claiming it offered “guaranteed market upside” and better returns. He failed to explain the new annuity’s high surrender charges, significant annual fees, and the fact that its “guaranteed” income rider was costly and complex, reducing their overall payout.

John and Jane realized something was wrong when their quarterly statements showed significant losses, and they faced penalties attempting to withdraw funds for an unexpected medical expense. They discovered the advisor made a large commission from the new sale. Following the steps above, they gathered their statements and correspondence, then contacted Investment Fraud Lawyers. During their free consultation, they presented their paperwork. The firm quickly identified several instances of misrepresentation and unsuitability given the couple’s age and need for liquidity. Investment Fraud Lawyers took their case on a contingency basis, filed a claim with FINRA, and through arbitration, successfully recovered a substantial portion of their losses, including the surrender charges and excessive fees, allowing John and Jane to regain financial stability. This real-world scenario reflects the kind of complex issues that specialized firms handle.

Choosing the Right Legal Partner for Annuity Fraud Cases

The choice of law firm can make or break your annuity fraud claim. It’s not just about finding any lawyer; it’s about finding the *right* lawyer. Given the intricacies of investment products and securities regulations, a general practice lawyer simply won’t cut it.

Overview of Your Options (Solo Practitioner vs. Specialized Firm)

You might encounter solo practitioners or small local firms that handle general legal issues, or larger, specialized firms dedicated solely to investment and securities fraud. For annuity fraud, a specialized firm like Investment Fraud Lawyers is almost always the better choice. They have the depth of knowledge, the specific experience with FINRA arbitration, and the resources to go up against large brokerage firms and insurance companies. Solo practitioners, while potentially offering more personalized attention, may lack the specialized expertise and financial muscle required for complex securities litigation.

Cost Comparison for Legal Services

Legal fees are a major concern for anyone who has already suffered financial losses. This is where contingency-based fee structures shine. The research clearly shows that many top firms, including Investment Fraud Lawyers, operate on a “No Recovery, No Fee” model. This means the law firm covers all upfront costs and only collects a percentage of the recovered funds if they win your case. This eliminates your financial risk and ensures your lawyer is highly motivated to achieve a favorable outcome. In contrast, hourly billing can be unpredictable and rack up significant costs, especially in lengthy, complex cases.

Ease of Working with a Firm

A good law firm should make the process as easy as possible for you. This includes clear communication, regular updates, and a willingness to explain complex legal concepts in plain language. Your lawyer should be accessible and responsive to your questions and concerns. A firm with a client-first approach will prioritize your needs and make you feel supported throughout the legal journey.

Success Rates and Track Record

Past success is often the best indicator of future performance. When evaluating firms, ask about their success rates in annuity fraud cases. Look for firms with a strong track record of recovering significant funds for investors. For example, Investment Fraud Lawyers proudly states a 98% success rate and millions recovered for investors over 50 years. This kind of proven history offers peace of mind that you’re working with a team that knows how to win.

Why We Recommend Investment Fraud Lawyers

Investment Fraud Lawyers stands out as the premier choice for handling annuity fraud claims. Their 50 years of experience means they’ve seen it all and successfully navigated evolving regulations and complex cases. Their 98% success rate and millions recovered for investors speak volumes about their expertise and dedication. The “No Recovery, No Fee” promise removes the financial burden from you, allowing you to focus on your recovery without added stress. They understand the nuances of various annuity products, the tactics advisors use, and the best strategies for achieving justice through FINRA arbitration or other legal avenues. If you’re facing annuity fraud, their national presence and deep specialization offer a powerful advantage.

Try Investment Fraud Lawyers: InvestmentFraudLawyers.com

Understanding Costs and How to Navigate Legal Fees

One of the biggest concerns for victims of financial fraud is the additional cost of legal action. It’s understandable to be cautious, but understanding how legal fees work in annuity fraud cases can alleviate much of that worry.

Typical Costs for Annuity Fraud Law Firms

For most annuity fraud and investment fraud cases, specialized law firms typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

You pay no upfront hourly fees or retainers.
The law firm advances all litigation costs (filing fees, expert witness costs, deposition expenses, etc.).
If they win your case, they receive a percentage of the recovery (usually between 33% and 40%).
If they don’t recover any funds for you, you owe them nothing for their time or advanced costs.

This model is highly advantageous for investors, as it provides access to justice without requiring significant out-of-pocket expenses, and it aligns the firm’s financial interests directly with yours.

Hidden Fees to Watch Out For

While contingency fees are common, it’s essential to clarify all potential costs with your prospective law firm. Ask:

Are litigation costs (like filing fees, court reporter fees, expert witness fees) separate from the contingency fee? If so, who covers them if the case is lost? (Reputable “No Recovery, No Fee” firms often cover these too.)
Are there any administrative fees?
What happens if the case settles quickly versus going to a full arbitration hearing? Does the percentage change?

Ensure everything is clearly outlined in a written retainer agreement before you sign anything. A transparent law firm will be happy to answer all these questions upfront.

Tips for Reducing Costs and Maximizing Recovery

Utilize Free Consultations: Take advantage of initial free consultations offered by firms like Investment Fraud Lawyers. This allows you to get an assessment of your case without financial commitment.
Choose Contingency Basis: Prioritize firms that offer a “No Recovery, No Fee” arrangement. This protects you from accumulating legal bills if the case is unsuccessful.
Be Organized: The more organized your documents and information are when you first approach a firm, the less time they may need to spend gathering basic facts, potentially streamlining the process.
Act Quickly: Waiting can complicate your case and potentially impact the amount you can recover, especially due to statutes of limitations. Prompt action can lead to a more efficient resolution.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Seeking Legal Counsel

The journey to recovering from annuity fraud can present its own set of challenges. Knowing what to expect and how to handle potential roadblocks can save you time and stress.

Dealing with Resistance from Your Financial Advisor

It’s natural for your financial advisor or their firm to resist any allegations of misconduct. They might deny wrongdoing, try to minimize your losses, or even attempt to persuade you not to pursue legal action. It’s important to remember that their primary interest is often to protect themselves and their employer. Once you suspect fraud, limit direct communication with them and let your attorney handle all future interactions. Do not sign any documents or agree to any proposed resolutions without consulting your lawyer first.

Statute of Limitations Concerns

Every state and every type of legal claim has a statute of limitations, which is a deadline for filing a lawsuit or arbitration claim. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to recover damages, even if you have a strong case. These deadlines can vary significantly depending on the nature of the fraud and when you discovered it. This is why it’s critical to act sooner rather than later. Rikard & Protopapas (Investor Loss Center) specifically warns about this.

Finding a Firm with Specific Annuity Expertise

As discussed, annuities are complex. A general personal injury lawyer, for example, will likely not have the specialized knowledge required to understand annuity contracts, FINRA regulations, or the specific types of fraud prevalent in the annuity market. When researching, explicitly search for firms that highlight their experience with “annuity fraud,” “securities fraud,” “FINRA arbitration,” and “broker misconduct.” Ask specific questions during consultations about their track record with annuities to ensure they are the right fit.

Advanced Tips for a Successful Annuity Fraud Claim

Beyond the basics, these advanced tips can help strengthen your annuity fraud claim and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Pro Tips from Investment Fraud Experts

Document Everything, Continuously: Maintain a detailed log of all communication, financial transactions, and events related to your annuity. Even seemingly minor details can become important evidence.
Be Completely Honest with Your Lawyer: Share all information, good or bad, with your legal team. Withholding details can harm your case. Your lawyer is on your side and needs the full picture.
Understand the Process: Ask your lawyer to clearly explain whether your case will proceed via FINRA arbitration, civil court litigation, or another avenue. Understanding each step, from discovery to hearing, will help you feel more in control.
Maintain Discretion: Avoid discussing the details of your potential claim with anyone other than your legal team. Social media posts, for example, could inadvertently compromise your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing a Claim

Waiting Too Long: Delaying action can lead to missing crucial statutes of limitations, weakening your case as memories fade and evidence becomes harder to retrieve.
Trying to Handle It Alone: Investment firms have powerful legal teams. Trying to negotiate or litigate without experienced legal representation puts you at a severe disadvantage.
Not Having All Documents: Incomplete documentation can slow down the process and make it harder to prove your claims.
Accepting a Lowball Offer: Initial settlement offers from financial institutions are often much lower than what your case is truly worth. Let your legal team evaluate and negotiate on your behalf.

Best Practices for Protecting Your Investments Moving Forward

After navigating a fraud claim, it’s wise to adopt practices that protect your financial future:

Due Diligence: Always research any financial product or advisor thoroughly before investing. Don’t rely solely on one recommendation.
Diversification: Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. Diversifying your investments can mitigate risk.
Get a Second Opinion: Before making significant investment decisions, especially with complex products like annuities, consider getting an independent second opinion from a different, unbiased financial professional.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your investments and the general financial market. The more you know, the better equipped you are to spot red flags.

Ready to Get Started?

Annuity fraud can be a complex and distressing experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. By understanding the signs of fraud, meticulously preparing your information, and choosing an experienced annuity fraud law firm, you can take a powerful step towards recovering your losses and achieving financial justice. Following this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of annuity fraud, don’t delay. The experts at Investment Fraud Lawyers are ready to help. With 50 years of experience, a 98% success rate, and their “No Recovery, No Fee” policy, they offer the expertise and peace of mind you need. Contact them today for a free consultation and let them put their power to work for you.

Start with Investment Fraud Lawyers: InvestmentFraudLawyers.com

FAQ — How to Find an Annuity Fraud Law Firm

1. How long does an annuity fraud case take?

The timeline for an annuity fraud case varies widely depending on its complexity, the amount of money involved, and whether it proceeds to FINRA arbitration or litigation. Some cases can settle in a few months, while others might take one to three years, or even longer, particularly if they go all the way to a hearing.

2. How much does an annuity fraud law firm cost?

Many reputable annuity fraud law firms, including Investment Fraud Lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they successfully recover money for you. Their fee is a percentage of the recovery, and they typically cover all upfront litigation costs.

3. Do I need an attorney for annuity fraud?

While you can attempt to resolve issues on your own, annuity fraud cases involve complex financial products, securities regulations, and legal procedures (like FINRA arbitration) that are best navigated by an experienced attorney. The odds of a successful recovery are significantly higher with specialized legal representation.

4. What’s the easiest way to report annuity fraud?

If you suspect annuity fraud, the easiest and most effective first step is to consult with a specialized annuity fraud law firm. They can assess your situation, advise on the best course of action, and help you report the fraud to the proper authorities, such as FINRA, the SEC, or state regulators, while protecting your rights.

5. Can I recover 100% of my losses from annuity fraud?

The goal of an annuity fraud claim is to make you whole again, meaning to recover all losses you suffered due to the fraud. While 100% recovery is often the aim, the actual amount recovered can depend on various factors, including the specifics of the fraud, the evidence available, and the financial institution’s ability to pay.

6. What are the common types of annuity fraud?

Common types include misrepresentation of risks or returns, unsuitable annuity recommendations (selling a product that doesn’t fit your needs), excessive fees, churning (frequent annuity exchanges for commissions), and selling annuities to elderly individuals who require immediate access to their funds.

7. What is FINRA arbitration for annuity fraud cases?

FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) arbitration is a common forum for resolving disputes between investors and brokerage firms or financial advisors. It’s generally faster and less formal than traditional court litigation. Many annuity fraud claims against brokers are resolved through this process.

8. How do I know if my annuity was unsuitable?

An annuity is unsuitable if it doesn’t match your financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs at the time of purchase. An attorney can review your financial records and the annuity’s terms to determine if it was improperly recommended.

9. What is the statute of limitations for annuity fraud?

Statutes of limitations vary by state and the specific nature of the fraud, typically ranging from two to six years from the date you knew or should have known about the fraud. It’s crucial to consult an attorney as soon as you suspect fraud to avoid missing these deadlines.

10. Can elder financial abuse involve annuities?

Absolutely. Elder financial abuse frequently involves unsuitable annuity sales, where vulnerable seniors are pressured or advised to purchase complex annuities that are ill-suited for their age, financial needs, or understanding, often resulting in significant financial harm.

11. What if my financial advisor sold me an annuity from a company like Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda)?

If you were sold an annuity from Northstar Financial Services (Bermuda) or other complex, offshore, or high-risk products like GWG Holdings L-Bonds, you might have a strong case for an unsuitable investment recommendation. Many firms, including Investment Fraud Lawyers, have specifically handled cases related to these types of products. You should immediately seek legal counsel for a full case review.

12. What questions should I ask an annuity fraud law firm during a consultation?

Key questions include: What is your experience with annuity fraud? What is your typical fee arrangement (e.g., contingency)? What are the potential strengths and weaknesses of my case? What is the estimated timeline? Who will be handling my case and how often will I receive updates?

Sources

Disclaimer: The information contained in any post on this website is derived from publicly available sources and is not guaranteed as to accuracy and often involves allegations which may or may not be proven at some point in the future.  All posts are believed to be accurate as of the time of original posting, but the accuracy and details are subject to and expected to change over time and which may contain opinions of the author at the time posted. 