Although, I’m still in the process of completing some administrative transitions, I have started seeing clients again. Over the MLK Jr. holiday weekend, I launched many of the updated pages on this site. You can now access my new Form ADV Part 2, the standardized disclosure document required of all state and federally registered investment adviser firms and their representatives. It comes in two parts. You can now access my ADV Part 2A which is about the firm, Garrett Investment Advisors, LLC, and my ADV Part 2B which is about me.

Together, Parts 2A and 2B make up the required disclosure brochure and supplement that should be reviewed by any consumer considering hiring and working with a registered investment adviser. It is very similar to a mutual fund prospectus, except it describes an investment advisor rather than a mutual fund. These disclosures contain important information about fees and compensation, business practices, potential conflicts of interest, and much more.

While the Form ADV Part 2 does not ensure a positive working experience with a financial planner, it can go a long way toward eliminating the potential for negative experiences by identifying items you may want to avoid such as conflicts of interest created by certain sources of compensation, a history of disciplinary actions, or a complex and expensive fee structure. For the protection of consumers of investment related advice, investment advisors are required to deliver Form ADV Part 2 to new clients. For your own protection, you should read it.