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Celiza Patricia Braganca

White collar crime Attorney at Skokie, IL

5.0   21 reviews

also known as Lisa Braganca, Celiza Braganca

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  • Licensed for 28 years
    State IL
    Acquired 1995
    Status
    Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 30 years
    State VA
    Acquired 1992
    Status
    Resigned No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

The most wonderful attorney I ever had
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
I HIGHLY recommend Lisa!
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About Celiza

Learn Celiza’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. White collar crime
    60%
    Representing people in investigations by the SEC, FINRA, and state securities agencies. Representing whistleblowers in filing tips with SEC Office of the Whistleblower and pursuing those tips.

    24 years

  2. Litigation
    20%
    Representing individuals and businesses in federal and state court litigation and arbitration as plaintiffs and defendants in contract and business disputes

    30 years

  3. Securities and investment fraud
    20%
    Recovering investment losses for customers in court as well as FINRA and other arbitration forums.

    24 years

Responding to SEC/FINRA subpoenas | Defending people in government investigations | Recovering investment losses

Lisa defends companies, individuals, financial advisors, officers, directors, and others in investigations by SEC, FINRA, and state securities commissioners. Lisa was a Branch Chief in the Division of Enforcement of the SEC, where she handled investigations of financial fraud, offering fraud, insider trading, and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations. She has been successful in resolving government investigations, many times with no charges or substantially reduced charges being brought. Lisa also represents investors in recovering investment losses resulting from broker misconduct. 

 

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Celiza Braganca
5250 Old Orchard Road
Suite 300
Skokie, IL, 60077-4460
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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0
  21 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | June 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The most wonderful attorney I ever had
Lisa made it very clear from the beginning that her goal was to be the best attorney I ever had. She managed to do just that. Never before had I experienced a combination of such genuine care, knowledge and intellect. If you want someone on your side, look no further.
Posted by anonymous | May 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I HIGHLY recommend Lisa!
I was dragged into an SEC issue due to my interaction with a client that I had. Even though I was simply a software vendor and consultant I was required to give discovery. I had extensive documentation and was concerned that I would somehow be lumped into this case. Lisa did a phenomenal job guiding me through the process from start to finish. She was professional, always available and really laid out the realities and risks while also guiding me through how to properly communicate and share with the SEC. I have never been through anything like this, nor want to again. But Lisa made the process much easier to navigate. She did all the communication with the SEC. She recommended a proffer which was a great route to go. And was with me when we did the virtual proffer. Her past experience working with the SEC was invaluable because she had insight from both perspectives. If you find yourself in a similar situation as me I would recommend you reach out to Lisa. She really knows how this process works and will give you sound guidance.
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Response from Celiza Braganca June 4, 2023
SEC investigations can be terrifying so I explain the process and the pros and cons of taking different steps throughout the process. It means a lot to be able to help people like you to get through the experience and to get a positive result. It was a pleasure to work with you.
Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A lawyer with top credentials who is extremely helpful and attentive
Lisa offers top 10 law firm advice at a reasonable price. She is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She was attentive and always answered any question I had.
Response from Celiza Braganca May 22, 2023
Thank you. We work very hard not just to meet expectations but to exceed them. We want to answer all questions and make sure our clients know what is going to happen or could happen to reduce the anxiety and stress of any legal proceeding.
Posted by anonymous | March 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent!
When I received a subpoena from the Secretary of State informing me that I was under investigation from the Securities Department, my original plan was to call a few attorneys to discuss my case and decide who would be in the best position to assist me. Lisa’s name was on the top of search list and after my first call with her, there was no need for me to continue the search. She explained the rules of the investigation very clearly and laid a plan on how to respond to the subpoena. She was very meticulous throughout the process and communicated directly with the State attorney handling my case all the while keeping me informed of all the steps taken. Her timely actions resulted in my case being dismissed after a very short period.
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Response from Celiza Braganca March 17, 2023
It was a pleasure to be able to get this investigation resolved so quickly by determining what the key issues were of concern to the regulator and addressing those proactively. I love being able to use what I learned working at the SEC and in the many securities regulatory investigations I have worked on in the last 20+ years to help people get through this difficult experiences.
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Posted by David | March 16, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend Braganca Law LLC
Ms. Bragança advised me with regard to preparing for a deposition with the SEC. She was extremely knowledgeable, responsive and helpful throughout the process. I highly recommend Braganca Law LLC for matters related to the SEC.
Response from Celiza Braganca March 17, 2023
It was a pleasure to get to work with you. I look forward to working with you again if anything more arises in this case or any other.
Posted by anonymous | January 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
SEC Compliance Expert, Effective Advocate
As a capital B “basic” investor, I found myself worried and confused about how and when I could and should sell the equity my company granted me, including how to evaluate the materiality of the types of information I receive in my job from time to time. Lisa’s advice and guidance was brilliant and helped me develop a pre-arranged trading strategy that has put my mind at ease. Lisa’s command and experience in this space paired with her very human and empathetic approach was a great fit for me - I highly recommend her.
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Response from Celiza Braganca January 12, 2023
Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot to know that I was able to help you navigate a stressful and complicated situation. I started my firm in order to be able to help folks like you. It was a pleasure to work with you. Lisa Braganca
Posted by anonymous | December 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Witness Summons
I received a summons from the SEC to appear as a witness. I had no idea what this would entail and how it would turn my life upside down. Lisa was extremely kind and patient. She explained everything that was going to happen and coached me how to respond. As a result, my situation was positively resolved. I feel blessed and very fortunate I had Lisa on my side.
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Response from Celiza Braganca December 28, 2022
It was a pleasure to help you get through the harrowing experience of responding to an unexpected SEC subpoena. I appreciate the opportunity to use what I learned working at the SEC to help third party witnesses and others to get through the stressful and opaque SEC investigation process.
Posted by Mirna | November 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent legal services
Lisa was highly recommended to represent me in a contentious legal matter which involved potential financial exposure. She was diligent, consistently responsive, and empathetic. Above all, Lisa is meticulous in explaining complex legal processes and strategies. She provided astute counsel and strong representation for us to achieve the best possible outcome. Retaining Bragança Law was the best decision that I made.
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Posted by Mike | August 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and Experienced
Lisa was an excellent lawyer. I needed representation for deposition by the FBI on a SEC matter and found Lisa. She knew the process inside and out and helped me understand the steps involved. She ensured I understood my rights and worked with my company on reimbursement of costs. She was pleasant to work with even though the situation was unpleasant but necessary to close out the case. I was glad to have found her to represent me and guide me.
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Posted by George | June 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience - SEC Investigation
Our firm came under an SEC investigation for a $12m+ crypto offering. Despite some muddy waters, and internal shareholder concerns, Ms. Braganca kept me clear of the SEC enforcement actions on account of her savvy understanding of the law, regulatory procedures, and nuances of my situation. She delicately and accurately brought forth the facts that properly represented me, and consistently went the extra mile until all parties were satisfied.
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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
best sec attorney
I had the unpleasant experience of receiving a call from the SEC informing me that I was the target of an investigation. Having never dealt this with before, I was unsure of how to proceed. I was fortunate enough to find Lisa's website and was able to have a phone consultation the same day. Lisa has a strong understanding of the financial markets and I was able to quickly explain to her the specifics of my situation. She expertly guided me through the process of preparing a detailed response to the SEC. I was able to prove my case to the SEC and the matter was resolved. Throughout the entire process, Lisa was highly professional, quick to return calls/emails, and also very cost efficient with her work.
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Posted by anonymous | March 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
FINRA Investigation
Lisa helped me through a very long FIRNA investigation (about 10 months). From the very beginning, she was very straightforward and honest about what was likely to happen during this process. In the end, we came to a reasonable agreement with FIRNA. Thank you, Lisa.
Posted by A.P. M. | October 28, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Phone consultation
I had a few questions regarding a potential case and I reached out. She was very generous with her time. She takes her role as YOUR attorney quite seriously and gives you a 360 degree perspective. She's reasonable, honest and pretty helpful. I would go to her again.
Response from Celiza Braganca October 31, 2021
Thank you so much for your review. It was a pleasure talking with you.
Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Finra OTR
Lisa helped me prepare for a Finra OTR. She is an extremely knowledgeable and professional attorney. Without her assistance and support, I would not have been prepared to do the OTR interview. Thank you Lisa. You’re AWESOME!!!!
Response from Celiza Braganca September 29, 2021
Thank you so much. It was a pleasure to work with you.
Posted by anonymous | November 15, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Efficient, experienced, personal legal representation!
It was a pleasure to work with Lisa in resolving a legal issue. She was efficient, informative, responsive, and just a genuine nice person. Her years of experience are apparent and invaluable in navigating this area of law. Should you need legal representation in this area, you can rest assured you will be in good hands working with her.
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Posted by anonymous | November 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing experience working with an intelligent and professional attorney
When you are faced with the SEC looking at you for possible violations it can be one of the most unpleasant experiences. Working with Lisa Braganca made our situation 1000x easier. She worked with other attorneys involved to develop a rock solid argument that in my opinion is what caused us to come out on the winning end of this. Over the course of our engagement, she was communicative, professional and empathetic. I can't say enough about her!
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Posted by anonymous | November 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Person To Have In Your Corner For Any SEC Investigation
I cannot recommend Celiza (Lisa) Braganca enough for the tireless work she's done for me, my partner, and our business. Facing potential SEC questioning is incredibly overwhelming and daunting, but Lisa brings a sense of ease, calm, confidence, and humor to every conversation. Lisa is extremely knowledgeable at what she does and approaches each situation with a combination of careful consideration and creativity. She works hard to ensure she's covering every angle and turning over every leaf. She's fair, honest, transparent, and the best person you want in your corner when facing a potential SEC investigation. The fact of the matter is, getting an SEC attorney is not something anyone ever wants to have to do, but if you find yourself in a pickle and need someone to help you understand your options and to navigate your situation, Lisa is the best person for it.
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Posted by anonymous | November 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very efficient and understand SEC laws and works towards quick resolution
LIsa was quick to understand the issues associated with our case, and quickly devised an effective representation, resolving the case satisfactorily in a short time. Lisa was very efficient, and maximized how far my retained would take me toward the resolution. I would highly recommend her services. I give Lisa the strongest possible recommendation. She is an expert with SEC matters and real estate industry. I am grateful that she was able to negotiate a favorable resolution for me and my wife.
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Posted by anonymous | November 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Competent, Credible, Caring - Could not ask for a better attorney
I am a normal guy who never dreamed I would be the subject of an SEC investigation. I have a modest business but do not have deep pockets. Bluntly, I was panicked when I received notice from the SEC. Another attorney suggested I reach out to Mrs. Braganca and I soon discovered why. Liza put me at ease and immediately got to work, exercising her knowledge of SEC law and the inner workings of the SEC itself. She formulated a strategy, prepared me well for my SEC interview, and walked me through the process. At every step of the way, Liza was mindful of the cost to me both financially and emotionally. She was able to distill the complex and often murky SEC laws and clearly articulate the choices that needed to be made along with the pro's and con's of each. At the end of the day, the results spoke for themselves. All charges were dropped without Liza using the full retainer. Our last conversation was bittersweet - while I was relieved for the whole affair to be over, I was saddened to not have a reason to work with Liza further. Through the process, Liza had cultivated confidence and calm, delivering the absolute best possible outcome. I highly recommend Liza.
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Posted by anonymous | October 20, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great SEC Defense Attorney!! Highly Recommend!
If you're ever confronted with an SEC investigation, please don't hesitate to contact Lisa at Braganca Law. Lisa was a strong advocate for me from day one, helping guide me through a complicated securities law issue which was very stressful and daunting. Her compassion and understanding of my situation, along with her experience and dedication to my case, greatly eased the tension. Lisa was very thorough answering all my questions and acted in my best interest throughout the entire process. She kept me well informed of each development in the case and took immediate action when necessary. Her hard work and tenacity paid off as the case was eventually dropped!! Had I not worked with Lisa I'm not sure I would have achieved the same result! I highly recommend Lisa Braganca as a competent, compassionate and smart lawyer.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 15 minutes
Payment methods
Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner and Attorney
  • Braganca Law LLC
  • 2017 - Present
  • Trial Attorney
  • Stoltmann Law Offices
  • 2014 - 2017
  • Legal Director
  • Access Living
  • 2011 - 2013
  • Securities and Financial Litigation Attorney
  • Sperling and Slater PC
  • 2004 - 2011
  • Branch Chief and Enforcement Attorney
  • US Securities & Exchange Commission
  • 1999 - 2001
  • Trial Attorney
  • Jenner & Block
  • 1994 - 1999
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Chicago Booth Graduate School of Business
  • MBA
  • 1992
  • University of Chicago Law School
  • JD
  • 1992
  • University of Chicago
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Recovery of investment losses for investor
  • Settled
  • Resolution of SEC investigation into real estate investments
  • Investigation closed with no charges
  • Resolution of FINRA investigation into PPP loans
  • Settled
View all legal cases

Associations

  • The PIABA Foundation
  • President
  • 2021 - Present
  • PIABA Foundation
  • Board Member
  • 2019 - Present
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2019 - Present
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Member - Securities Law Committee
  • 1995 - Present
  • Association of SEC Alumni
  • N/A
  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2017 - 2019
  • League of Women Voters - Wilmette
  • Board Member
  • 2017 - 2018
  • Public Investor Advocate Bar Association
  • Committee member
  • 2014 - 2023
  • District of Columbia Bar
  • 1993 - 1994
  • Virginia Bar
  • 1992 - 1994
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Lead On! Award
  • Access Living
  • 2012
  • Elected Delegate to 2004 Democratic National Convention
  • First Congressional District of Illinois (Democratic voters)
  • 2004
  • Order of the Coif
  • 1992

Publications

  • ABA Law Practice Magazine
  • Dipping Your Analog Toe into Digital Coins
  • 2019
  • Portfolio Media (Law360)
  • Truth Without Proof - How to Get Blockchain Transactions into Evidence co-author
  • 2019
  • PIABA Bar Journal
  • Cryptocurrencies and Tokens: What are they and who regulates them - co-author
  • 2018
  • Unknown
  • Minding Your 302s: Assessing Potential Civil, Administrative and Criminal Liability for False Financial Statement Certifications - co-author
  • 2006
  • Law Journal Seminars Press
  • Insurance Coverage Disputes - contributor
  • 1998
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • ABA TechShow
  • Cryptocurrency and digital coin regulation
  • 2020
  • Best of TechShow 2019 Webinar
  • Cryptocurrency and digital coin regulation
  • 2020
  • Illinois State Bar Association Webinar
  • Blockchain in Litigation 2.0
  • 2019
  • Concordia University Program January 2019
  • Elder Financial Abuse
  • 2019
  • PIABA Annual Meeting
  • Using Behavioral Decision-making Research in FINRA Arbitrations and Mediations
  • 2019
  • St. John's Law School Securities Arbitration Clinic
  • FINRA Arbitration
  • 2018
  • PIABA Annual Meeting
  • Using Behavioral Decision-making Research in FINRA Arbitrations and Mediations
  • 2018
  • Chicago Bar Association Demonstration
  • Truth Without Proof - How to Get Blockchain Transactions into Evidence
  • 2018
  • Rotary Club of Wilmette meeting
  • Fraud as a Virus
  • 2017
  • National Association of Elder Law Attorneys - Illinois Chapter
  • Exploitation of Elders by Financial Advisors
  • 2017
  • Annual Meeting of Public Investor Advocacy Bar Association
  • Discovery in FINRA arbitration
  • 2017
  • Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association Annual Meeting
  • Investment Fraud - Reaching Defrauded Investors
  • 2016
  • Minding Your 302s PLI Continuing Education Seminar
  • Securities fraud
  • 2006
  • Turnaround Management Association
  • Securities fraud
  • 2005
  • Mid-Atlantic Regional Workshop
  • Sarbanes-Oxley Act 2002
  • 2003
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (1)
Given (1)
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Adrian Smith
Commercial real estate Attorney | Jun 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
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Adrian Smith
Litigation
Skokie White collar crime Lawyer Celiza Patricia Braganca
Celiza Patricia Braganca
White collar crime Attorney
Skokie, IL
Licensed for 30 years
Free Consultation
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