How to check out your Stock Broker

Investors can check out the background of their broker at http://www.finra.org/ It is possible to search for brokers and firms, and look at disciplinary actions taken against the broker as well as obtaining status and history information. Investors should look for red flags such as frequent firm changes, work history at firms with excessive complaints, and unexplained disciplinary items. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is the largest non-governmental regulator for all securities firms doing business in the United States.

Their direct broker check link can be found at:
http://www.finra.org/InvestorInformation/InvestorProtection/ChecktheBackgroundofYourInvestmentProfessional/index.htm