Question: I am a real estate sponsor and I just received notice from the New York Attorney General about a Martin Act investigation into my project. What does this mean and should I be concerned?

Answer: The short answer to your question is yes, you should be concerned. The New York Attorney General (NYAG) has broad and nearly unparalleled investigatory power under multiple state laws, including the Martin Act. The NYAG recently made national headlines for its investigation into President-elect Donald Trump under New York's Executive Law. The NYAG has similar powers — both civil and criminal — under the Martin Act. Here are some things you need to consider.