Nothing in this article shall limit or shield, in any manner, a broker-dealer, investment adviser, or qualified individual from any administrative or civil liability for any claim, or for reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs, and litigation expenses related to such claim, for
participating in or materially aiding the financial exploitation of an eligible adult. Any such civil claim may be asserted by the eligible adult, or on his or her behalf by an appropriate guardian or representative who is not involved in or otherwise suspected of participating in the financial exploitation of the eligible adult, by filing a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction.