I would also like to point out the following: If it is the firm I am thinking of it was an issue with their remote host. Their gateway's never crashed so if you have a stop working there would have been no problems. I realize it sucks to have things like this happen but you are always going to have the occasional problem no matter what firm you are at.
Possibly their whole Asia gateway crashed and the system didn't reduce the positions automatically around 4pmEST to meet the day to night margin transition, as the system would normally do.
I don't think they're liable for anything, but many online brokers will give compensation in the form of free trades. You should call in and complain EVERY time you notice the site is down, even if you didn't suffer any losses because of it.
i want to point out everything you complain and look for free trades you take away any money for ever fixing the problem. we live in a walmart world that wants to be treated like you are shopping at saks fifth avenue.