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SEC & FINRA Mock Audits and Compliance Reviews

Overview

Sadis & Goldberg LLP conducts realistic SEC and FINRA mock audits and compliance reviews for registered investment advisers (RIAs), broker-dealers, and fund managers preparing for regulatory examinations.

Our team replicates the structure and rigor of an actual exam to uncover compliance gaps and help clients strengthen internal controls, disclosures, and regulatory readiness. We assess firm policies, interview key personnel, and deliver actionable guidance to strengthen your compliance program before a regulator arrives.

Why Conduct a Mock SEC or FINRA Audit?

Simulating a regulatory audit is a proactive way to uncover deficiencies in your compliance program before the SEC or FINRA does. A mock audit also helps train staff, improve documentation practices, and demonstrates your commitment to a robust compliance culture. Clients use our mock examinations to identify and address potential issues early, reducing regulatory risk and exam-related stress.

Our SEC & FINRA Mock Audit Process

Our mock audits replicate the structure and intensity of an actual SEC or FINRA regulatory exam.

We follow a multi-stage process:

  1. Pre-Audit Document Review
    We initiate the audit with a comprehensive request list that reflects real regulatory exams. This early review helps us assess your policies and identify control weaknesses before on-site testing begins.
  2. On-Site Evaluation
    Our attorneys conduct in-person examinations at your offices, reviewing documents, systems, and control environments. We also speak with compliance personnel and interview key stakeholders to understand your firm's compliance culture.
  3. Real-Time Feedback
    During the visit, we highlight issues as they emerge, share best practices, and incorporate recent regulatory developments. This dynamic feedback loop helps your team adapt in real-time and address deficiencies proactively.
  4. Post-Audit Insights
    At the conclusion of our audit, we provide detailed verbal feedback and, when requested, a formal written report. We also offer recommended updates to policies and procedures that align with current SEC/FINRA expectations.

What We Review During a Mock Audit

Our mock exams often surface policy gaps tied to investment management challenges such as trade allocation, advertising compliance, and custody rule adherence. Every mock exam is tailored to the client’s risk profile and business model, but our reviews commonly include:

  • Books and records compliance
  • Advertising and marketing practices
  • Custody rule adherence
  • Personal trading and Code of Ethics monitoring
  • Cybersecurity and data governance
  • Disclosure of conflicts of interest
  • Testing of written compliance policies
  • Form ADV, Form CRS, and investor disclosure reviews

Why Choose Sadis for Regulatory Audit Preparation

Clients trust Sadis & Goldberg LLP for mock audit services because of our deep regulatory experience and insider perspective. Our team doesn’t just simulate exams—we help clients understand examiner priorities and apply real-world insights to strengthen internal systems.

Key advantages include:

  • Supervision by former SEC compliance examiner Dan Viola
  • Real-time best practice sharing during engagements
  • Focused reviews tailored to SEC, FINRA, or state-level exams
  • Actionable advice for improving policies, disclosures, and governance
  • Full-service compliance and legal counsel are available post-audit through our Regulatory Compliance team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a mock SEC or FINRA audit?
A mock audit is a simulated regulatory examination designed to assess a firm’s compliance with SEC or FINRA regulations. It identifies gaps before a real exam occurs.

How long does the audit process take?
Engagements typically last 1–2 weeks depending on firm size and audit scope, including prep, on-site review, and post-audit reporting.

Is a written report provided?
Yes. Upon request, we deliver a detailed report summarizing findings and providing actionable compliance recommendations.

What types of firms benefit from mock audits?
We serve RIAs, broker-dealers, hedge funds, private equity firms, and other financial institutions regulated by the SEC or FINRA.

Ready to Schedule a Mock Audit?

Contact our Regulatory Compliance team to begin a confidential assessment and ensure your firm is prepared for its next SEC or FINRA exam.

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