Houston Healthcare Fraud Attorneys & Texas Medicare Fraud Defense Lawyers

Houston Healthcare Fraud Attorneys – Federal Defense Attorneys for Civil Fraud and Criminal Fraud Cases –  Are You Under investigation for healthcare fraud in Houston?

Being the target of a healthcare fraud investigation is not just stressful—it’s potentially career-ending. Whether you’re a physician, a medical billing executive, or the owner of a home health company in Houston, a federal agency accusing you of fraud puts your practice, finances, and freedom at risk.

If you’ve received a subpoena, civil investigative demand, or target letter, or if agents from the DOJ, HHS-OIG, or FBI have visited your facility, you must act quickly. You need a seasoned healthcare fraud defense lawyer who understands how these investigations unfold and how to aggressively fight back.

IMMEDIATELY REDUCE THE CHANCE OF JAIL TIME OR HUGE FINES - DOWNLOAD FREE HEALTH CARE FRAUD DEFENSE CHECKLIST

If you did not intend to defraud the government, we can help.

Here is what most healthcare professionals don’t know: being under investigation does NOT mean you’ll be charged, and it definitely doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted.

We help doctors, pharmacies, hospitals, manufacturers and other healthcare professionals, reduce charges, get cases dismissed or aggressively protect their rights in healthcare fraud criminal and civil cases in Houston, Texas.

Houston Healthcare Fraud Lawyers – Defense for Medicare, False Claims Act, and Federal Cases

At Watson & Associates, LLC, we defend healthcare providers, medical executives, and businesses across Houston who are accused of violating federal healthcare laws. Our team of former government lawyers and healthcare litigation professionals offers high-level strategic guidance to those under civil or criminal scrutiny. Every case is unique—but the stakes are always high.

We help healthcare fraud clients during the investigation stage, pre-indictment and after being indicted  and moving towards criminal trials.

You’re likely asking yourself: “Am I going to prison? Will I lose my medical license? What happens to my practice and reputation?” These are valid, urgent fears—and the truth is, federal prosecutors are aggressive, and they don’t care if the billing error was accidental or if you’re innocent.

At Watson &. Associates, LLC, our team of  federal government fraud defense attorneys help Houston healthcare and medicare providers minimize or avoid jail, defend their licenses, and walk away from devastating accusations. We know how to intercept the government’s case early—and in many instances, we aim to shut down entirely before it reaches court.

 We respond fast. Once we receive your basic information from your first call, you’ll speak with a real federal healthcare fraud defense attorney. about the status and details about your case, and not an assistant or intake coordinator.”

What Is Healthcare Fraud?

Healthcare fraud involves deliberately misleading a healthcare benefit program to obtain money or services under false pretenses. This could mean submitting false claims, misrepresenting services, or manipulating billing codes—actions that can trigger serious federal investigations.

One of the most critical elements in any healthcare fraud case is intent. The government must typically show that the accused knowingly and willfully engaged in deception. However, in many cases, what the government sees as fraud may actually stem from complex billing systems, clerical errors, or misunderstanding of coding protocols.

Just because a billing mistake occurred does not automatically mean fraud took place. Errors happen, and navigating insurance and federal healthcare regulations is anything but simple. Prosecutors, however, may still bring charges, often leaning heavily on those very errors to build their case.

If you or your organization is under investigation, it’s essential to work with defense attorneys who understand both the technical and legal nuances of the healthcare system. A strong legal strategy can make the difference between clarifying an honest mistake—and defending your career, business, or license in federal court.

• The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) have increased their efforts to investigate and charge healthcare professionals Who have been allegedly violated in healthcare laws.
• Why is it that So Many Companies are Settling Cases ?

Remember: Being investigated is not the same as being guilty. Our job is to make sure it stays that way.

If you’ve received a subpoena, target letter, or other notice from federal authorities, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare enforcement action lawyer who understands how to navigate the system. As a healthcare professional, you’ve spent years building your career. Now, that future may seem uncertain.

Accusations of healthcare fraud don’t just threaten your business—they put your license, your freedom, and your livelihood on the line. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our team of experienced anti-kickback violation defense attorneys and healthcare fraud defense Houston Healthcare Fraud Attorneys helps providers and businesses navigate the complexities of federal investigations.

Facing Healthcare Fraud Allegations in Houston? You’re Not Alone.

Houston is one of the most heavily surveilled cities for healthcare enforcement actions in the United States. Federal agencies have increasingly ramped up their focus on doctors, medical groups, and healthcare businesses they suspect of fraud—especially those billing Medicare and Medicaid. The Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Department of Justice (DOJ) actively pursue providers they believe are abusing government healthcare programs. But in many cases, these investigations are based on misunderstandings, ambiguous billing regulations, or whistleblower complaints from disgruntled former employees.

As a healthcare fraud lawyer, we know how quickly these accusations escalate. What starts as an audit or an informal investigation can rapidly turn into a criminal indictment. The government may allege that you submitted false claims, engaged in unlawful referral arrangements, or received illegal kickbacks. But not every billing irregularity is fraud. That’s why having the right legal defense early in the process is critical.

What Triggers Healthcare Fraud Investigations?

Most providers don’t realize they’re being investigated until they receive a formal notice—such as a subpoena for records, a civil investigative demand (CID), or even a visit from federal agents. These cases often arise from allegations that a provider knowingly submitted false claims for reimbursement, performed unnecessary services, or received financial benefits for referring patients. The government might allege a violation of laws like the False Claims Act, the Anti-Kickback Statute, or the Stark Law.

But complex regulatory schemes like these leave a lot of room for error and confusion. That’s why your choice of a healthcare fraud defense attorney matters. We help clients in Houston dissect the facts of their case, challenge flawed assumptions, and build the strongest possible defense to mitigate civil and criminal exposure.

HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IF YOU ARE INVESTIGATED OR INDICTED

Looking to hire an attorney for medicare fraud, Call 1.866.601.6618 if you are seeking to retain a federal medical fraud lawyer and Speak to Mr. Watson 

We Offer Top Houston Medicare Fraud Defense Attorneys

Our healthcare fraud defense team is uniquely equipped to handle cases involving alleged Medicare fraud in Houston, Texas. The government aggressively targets providers suspected of submitting claims for services not rendered, billing for medically unnecessary procedures, or engaging in upcoding. Houston’s vast medical infrastructure, including outpatient clinics, physician-owned laboratories, and home healthcare companies, makes it a prime enforcement zone for the DOJ and CMS task forces.

As Houston Medicare fraud defense lawyers, we understand the technical language of CMS audits, the billing procedures for HCPCS and CPT codes, and the nuances of Medicare Part B and D compliance. If you’ve received a MAC or ZPIC audit, or if your practice is accused of billing anomalies, our legal team works with forensic billing experts and consultants to dispute the government’s assumptions. We also challenge the underlying claim data that often misrepresents legitimate medical services as fraudulent.

Defending Against False Claims Act Lawsuits in Healthcare

One of the most dangerous legal tools the government uses in healthcare fraud investigations is the False Claims Act (FCA). Under this law, providers can face massive civil penalties for submitting claims the government deems “false” or “fraudulent,” even if there was no intent to deceive. These cases often arise from whistleblower lawsuits—also known as qui tam cases—where a current or former employee brings allegations against your business.

FCA cases are especially complex because the government doesn’t need to prove intent to defraud. If a claim is based on a service provided in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute or the Stark Law, it may be considered false—even if the service itself was necessary. As your Houston healthcare fraud lawyers we analyze every billing transaction, challenge whistleblower credibility, and negotiate with DOJ civil attorneys to reduce exposure or push for dismissal. We have the litigation experience to fight these cases in court or resolve them through favorable settlements.

The Risks: Civil Fines, Criminal Charges, and License Revocation

Once a healthcare fraud investigation is underway, you may be facing multiple levels of exposure. On the civil side, possible medicare fraud and abuse penalties include could be liable for treble damages and thousands of dollars in penalties per claim. On the criminal side, you could face felony charges, imprisonment, and permanent exclusion from Medicare and Medicaid programs. Your professional license could be suspended, and your medical business could be shut down. In many cases, we help clients resolve the matter before formal charges are filed—but even if you’re already under indictment, we are ready to step in and mount an aggressive Houston, Texas healthcare fraud defense.

Federal Healthcare Fraud Defense Strategies That Can Work

Successful defense requires more than reacting to accusations—it demands a proactive, investigative strategy. At Watson & Associates, we don’t just wait for the government’s next move. We build our own evidentiary record, challenge the reliability of audits and data, and push back against procedural overreach. Whether the issue is alleged billing fraud, financial kickbacks, or Stark Law violations, we explore every legal angle:

• Proving lack of intent to defraud

• Demonstrating compliance with safe harbor provisions

• Highlighting ambiguity in billing codes and medical necessity

• Identifying constitutional violations during search and seizure

• Negotiating non-prosecution agreements or deferred prosecution

Our firm has represented clients in some of the most sensitive federal investigations in the country, and we bring that national experience to every Houston case.

Important Questions About Federal Healthcare Fraud Cases in Houston, Texas

1. Can I go to prison for federal healthcare fraud?

Answer:
Yes — federal healthcare fraud is a serious felony offense. A conviction in federal court can result in 10 years per count, or even more if the government proves patient harm, billing fraud over $1 million, or a conspiracy involving multiple providers. Houston federal courts are known for aggressive prosecution and sentencing in these cases.

2. What’s the difference between civil and criminal healthcare fraud?

Answer:
In civil cases, the government seeks financial penalties, exclusion from Medicare/Medicaid, or licensing consequences. In criminal cases, you are facing felony charges, prison time, and a permanent criminal record. In Houston, Texas many civil audits escalate into criminal investigations — so early legal intervention is crucial.

3. Who investigates federal healthcare fraud in Houston?

Answer:
Federal cases are usually led by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG). In Texas, these agencies often work with the FBI, CMS, and local U.S. Attorney’s Offices to investigate billing irregularities, kickbacks, and violations of federal statutes like the False Claims Act and Anti-Kickback Statute.

4. I received a target letter or subpoena — what should I do?

Answer:
A target letter means the government believes you committed a federal crime and may soon indict you. A subpoena demands records or testimony. Do not speak to investigators or comply without legal counsel. A skilled federal defense attorney can intervene early — and in some cases, stop charges before they’re filed.

5. Can my license be suspended even if I haven’t been convicted?

Answer:
Yes. Federal investigations can trigger administrative actions against your license even without a conviction. A pending indictment or formal charge can lead to temporary or permanent suspension from Medicaid/Medicare programs or your state licensing board. We defend both your legal freedom and your professional credentials.

6. How can I tell if I’m the target of a federal case or just a witness?

Answer:
If federal agents have contacted you, requested documents, or sent a subpoena, you may be a target, subject, or witness — and this status can change quickly. Do not assume you’re safe. Only a federal defense attorney can find out your legal status and protect you from making costly mistakes.

7. Do I need a lawyer who specifically handles federal healthcare fraud cases?

Answer:
Yes — federal cases are not the same as state cases. The rules, evidence standards, agencies, and sentencing guidelines are more complex. Many attorneys don’t understand the False Claims Act, Stark Law, or Anti-Kickback Statute. We do. Our firm handles complex federal healthcare fraud defense across Houston, Texas and nationwide.

Most healthcare professionals wait too long—don’t give the government a head start.

Common Healthcare Fraud Charges Under Federal Law

Several federal statutes govern healthcare fraud and are frequently used in criminal and civil cases including:

The False Claims Act (31 USC 3729–3733):  This law allows the federal government to pursue you or your company if you knowingly submit false or fraudulent claims to government healthcare programs.

Civil and Criminal False Claims Act Penalties can include treble damages and civil fines exceeding $25,000 per claim.*

Anti-Kickback Statute (42 USC 320a-7b).  This federal criminal statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving anything of value to induce or reward referrals or generate federal healthcare program business. Criminal convictions can result in felony charges, exclusion from federal programs, and up to 10 years in prison.

Stark Law (42 U.S.C. § 1395nn).  This is a strict liability statute that prohibits physicians from referring patients for certain designated services payable by Medicare or Medicaid if the physician has a financial relationship with the entity. Penalties include fines and exclusion.

Healthcare Fraud (18 USC 1347)  A criminal statute that makes it illegal to knowingly execute a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program. It carries up to 10 years in prison, or 20 years if it results in serious bodily injury.

Conspiracy (18 USC 371). Frequently added to fraud indictments, conspiracy charges involve two or more persons working together to commit healthcare fraud.

Wire Fraud (18 USC1343). Use of email, telephone, or internet to commit fraud can trigger additional felony charges.A single healthcare fraud investigation can implicate multiple statutes, significantly raising the stakes for a defendant.

Who Are Our Clients

The Watson & Associates, LLC Law Firm Provides Nationwide Criminal Defense Attorneys and Houston healthcare fraud defense lawyers for Health Care Providers, Hospitals, Pharmaceutical Companies, Licensed Pharmacists and Pharmacies,  Manufacturers, and More

What is the Government’s Burden of Proof in a Criminal Healthcare Fraud Case?

Our federal healthcare fraud attorneys have defended clients in DOJ, HHS, and OIG cases. False Claims Act Healthcare fraud under 18 USC 1347 typically involves a scheme to defraud the federal healthcare program. The government’s case may tend to argue false or fraudulent representations in exchange for money – health insurance fraud through payment of invoices or something of value.

The prosecutor has to prove every element of the case”beyond a reasonable doubt.”  This is a very high legal standard. The key to defending a False Claims Act healthcare fraud case is to show a lack of intent. This is usually the government’s biggest hurdle in a criminal case and something that the federal Anti-Kickback statute and medical billing fraud law firm, and a criminal healthcare fraud enforcement action defense lawyer at our firm can help.

• bribery,
• kickbacks,
• gratuities, and
• conflicts of interest
• Ghost Patients
• Inflating Cost Reports
• Billing for Services Not Rendered

18 USC 1347. makes it a federal crime to defraud any health care benefit program or obtain, by fraudulent means, any money or benefit from a health care program.

If you are thinking about hiring a health care fraud attorney, Watson & Associates, LLC only Takes On Cases That Our False Claims Act Health care Fraud Attorneys Believe that They Can Help.

What Makes Healthcare Fraud Cases So Dangerous?

• They’re prosecuted federally (U.S. Attorney, DOJ, HHS-OIG)

• Penalties are severe – prison, treble damages, asset seizure

• Investigations often involve sealed indictments and raids

• Most lawyers don’t have the federal experience to win

Defending Your Case Can Be Simpler Than Many May Think

Did You Knowingly Intend to Defraud the Government Under 18 USC 1347? If Not, We Can Help

The government will normally Use the Supreme Court Case of Universal Health Servs.. lnc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar,579 U.S. 176, 180 (2016) to support its allegations of you violating the False Claims Act. Litigation against the federal government in both criminal and civil False Claims Act cases can be very expensive and difficult. The government uses Universal Health Servs.. lnc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar to leverage its allegations that under 3 l U.S.C. § 3729, it has met the FCA’s scienter (knowledge) requirement to argue that by merely submitting or signing a document you automatically show a “reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.

Call 1.866.601.6618 and Speak to Mr. Watson 

We Build a Legal Defense Team That Treats Every Case as Though it Were Going Before a Jury. We Know How the Feds Come After You. We Fight Back. When You delay getting your legal defense in place, you give the federal attorneys a leg up. Chances are that they have been investigating your case for months or even years. Their job is to prosecute you and send you to jail. Our Federal False Claims Act and Houston federal health care fraud attorneys are here to aggressively defend your case.  Protect Your Freedom and Legal Rights. We’re Here to Help.

Are You Facing HealthCare Fraud Charges? Learn How to Protect Yourself Here

Time Matters: The Statute of Limitations and Government Leverage

Under the federal False Claims Act, most healthcare fraud claims are subject to a six-year statute of limitations, but that period can be extended up to ten years in cases involving concealment or conspiracy. The government uses this window to build cases long before notifying providers—meaning you may already be under scrutiny without knowing it.

The earlier you involve a Houston healthcare fraud lawyer, the better your chances of avoiding serious consequences. Even if you believe the issue may blow over or was a simple mistake, silence or inaction can be misinterpreted as guilt.

Talk to a Houston Healthcare Fraud Lawyer Today

If you’re a healthcare provider or business executive in Houston facing fraud allegations, don’t wait until charges are filed. At Watson & Associates, we provide aggressive, sophisticated representation to those under civil or criminal healthcare fraud scrutiny. Our experience with Medicare fraud defense, False Claims Act litigation, and high-stakes federal cases makes us the law firm clients trust when everything is on the line.

Call us today at 1-866-601-5518 for a confidential consultation with a dedicated healthcare fraud defense lawyer. Your future deserves a legal team that knows how to fight—and win.

Kickbacks vs. Self-Referrals: What Healthcare Professionals Must Know

Understanding the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and Stark Law is critical if you or your healthcare organization interacts with Medicare or Medicaid. Both laws aim to prevent financial conflicts that influence patient care—but they differ significantly in scope, penalties, and how they’re enforced. If you’re under investigation, a healthcare fraud defense lawyer can help you navigate the complex distinctions between the two.

Stark Law – A Civil Violation

• What It Prohibits: Physicians referring Medicare or Medicaid patients for designated health services (DHS) to an entity with which they or their family have a financial relationship—unless a legal exception applies.

• Penalties:

  • Denial or refund of payments for improper referrals

  • Civil fines up to $15,000 per prohibited service

  • Treble damages (3x the amount received)

  • Up to $100,000 for schemes designed to evade the law

  • Potential exclusion from government healthcare programs

Unlike the AKS, Stark Law does not require proof of intent. That means even unintentional violations can trigger severe financial consequences.

If you are facing allegations related to kickbacks or self-referrals, the difference between criminal and civil exposure can mean everything. Engaging a seasoned h

Facing a Healthcare Fraud False Claims Act Investigation in Houston or Facing Criminal Charges? Here’s What You Need to Know

After getting legal counsel on your team, your stress level will become less, knowing that you have an aggressive team on your side:  When you are accused of defrauding the federal government through false claims, it’s essential to act quickly and strategically. One of your top concerns is likely to be how this will impact your reputation and financial stability. Our federal Houston False Claims Act Lawyer and medicare fraud defense attorneys help clients navigate the complex legal landscape of federal investigations under 18 USC 1347, working to protect their livelihoods and secure favorable outcomes.

See our healthcare fraud alert.

See Critical Information About Choosing Litigation Over Settlement in a Federal False Claims Act Case 

IMMEDIATELY REDUCE THE CHANCE OF JAIL TIME OR HUGE FINES - DOWNLOAD FREE HEALTH CARE FRAUD DEFENSE CHECKLIST