False Claims Act Attorney – Investigation & Criminal Defense Attorneys
How Our False Claims Act Lawyers Defend Against $10M+ Government Penalties Nationwide and Reduce the Possibility of Jail Time
Former Government Agency Officials, Prosecutors, and DOJ Attorneys | Nationwide White Collar Federal Defense Cases | Emergency Consultation Available. Call 1.866.601.5518 24/7
What You’ll Discover in Your Emergency FCA Defense Assessment:
✓ The ‘insider secret’ that makes federal prosecutors willing to negotiate False Claims Act settlements (that the majority of defense attorneys don’t know)
✓ Why hiring a ‘big name’ qui tam defense lawyer could actually hurt your FCA case
✓ The 3 documents you should NEVER turn over to federal investigators (even if they demand them)
✓ How former government contracting officials turn potential $20M + penalties into manageable settlements
✓ The ‘healthcare provider loophole’ that’s saved our clients millions in False Claims Act fines
✓ Why most Federal False Claims Act cases are won or lost before you ever see a courtroom
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SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
We can only handle 5 new FCA emergency cases this month. Call 1.866.601.5518 today.
Watson & Associates, LLC on represents defendants in False Claims Act / whistleblower cases. Some of the law firm’s federal lawyers include former prosecutors, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) attorneys, government attorneys and defense lawyers. We are standing by to help you with your False Claims Act defense.
We represent corporations, CEO’s and high-level individuals across the United States in cases involving government contract fraud, SEC fraud, healthcare fraud, Trade Agreements Act (TAA Compliance), Buy American Act (BAA Compliance), SBA PPP fraud and other federal white collar crimes for “false and fraudulent” claims.
Immediate Legal Action Required: If you have received a target letter, subpoena, or Civil Investigative Demand regarding potential False Claims Act violations, immediate action is critical. Led by former military member and US Supreme Court lawyer Theodore Watson, our experienced legal team provides aggressive nationwide defense for individuals and organizations facing federal False Claims Act investigations and prosecutions.
Specialized Team Excellence: Watson & Associates, LLC specializes exclusively in high-stakes federal criminal and civil defense, with our legal team of False Claims Act lawyers bringing particular expertise in False Claims Act cases involving healthcare fraud, government contracting violations, and financial fraud allegations. When your reputation, freedom, and livelihood are at stake, you need a False Claims Act defense team with the experience and dedication to protect your interests.
Nationwide FCA Fraud Criminal Defense Team
Firm’s Lead Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Speak to National Practice Leader Theodore Watson (Over 23 Years of Federal Practice) – Admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States.
- He oversees False Claims Act Medicare fraud criminal defense attorneys and qui tam defense lawyers and federal healthcare fraud attorneys.
Speak Directly to Theodore Watson. Top False Claims Act defense attorney for small businesses and large corporations nationwide.
For legal support in healthcare fraud defense throughout the U.S., and government contract fraud criminal defense, contact Theodore Watson at 1.866.601.5518. We are committed to serving your legal needs in California.
Carolyn L. Oliver – Counsel
Of Counsel to Watson & Associates, LLC: Carolyn L. Oliver brings over 40 years of distinguished legal experience to Watson & Associates’ Federal White Collar Defense and Investigations practice. As a former DOJ Prosecutor and Assistant United States Attorney in the Major Frauds Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, Oliver provides clients with representation from a federal white collar criminal defense attorney who has prosecuted the very types of cases she now defends. Her extensive federal prosecution background, combined with her proven track record in complex criminal defense, positions her as a formidable advocate for corporations, CEOs, and individuals facing high-stakes federal investigations.
Carolyn is a recognized leader in criminal defense, known for her fierce courtroom advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice. She has successfully defended countless clients, earning a reputation for results-driven strategies and compassionate client care. As Of Counsel to Watson & Associates’ Federal White Collar Criminal Defense and Investigations practice, Oliver focuses her practice on representing companies and individuals in federal criminal and civil investigations and prosecutions by government enforcement agencies, as well as complex federal litigation. She also advises companies on high-profile, complex, and sensitive internal investigations. Read more…
Chris Mancini – Counsel
Chris Mancini, Counsel, brings 45 years of criminal defense experience to Watson & Associates, to support the firm’s federal white collar defense attorney services, including eight years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney (Former DOJ Prosecutor) in the Southern District of Florida (DOJ), where he served as Deputy Chief of both the Criminal Division and Civil Division.
Chris Mancini specializes in navigating the complexities of the federal court system, providing legal advice, investigating cases, and building strong defense strategies to protect the firm’s clients’ rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Mancini assists the Watson team with federal civil and criminal matters throughout the United States. His background as a former DOJ attorney and prosecutor aligns with the firm’s emphasis on attorneys with federal agency experience. Mancini’s understanding of federal law enforcement agencies and white collar defense enhances the firm’s capabilities in representing clients facing federal investigations and criminal prosecutions. Mr. Mancini maintains an unblemished 45-year track record of successfully advising and representing corporate and individual clients. His combination of federal prosecution experience and defense practice provides clients with representation from an attorney who understands both sides of federal criminal cases.
If you have been indicted for a federal white collar crime, you should hire experienced white collar crime lawyers to protect your rights and fight back. Read more.
Robert “Bob” Ayers – Of Counsel
James M. Allen Counsel
James M. Allen, Of Counsel to Watson & Associates, LLC, is a committed federal white collar criminal defense attorney with experience handling a range of complex matters at the trial and post-conviction levels.
His background includes defending clients in both state and federal forums, with a growing emphasis on federal white collar criminal defense.
As a white collar crime attorney, he maintains a strong professional interest in matters involving procurement fraud, SBA investigations, and regulatory enforcement, and is well-versed in the legal frameworks and defense strategies that shape those cases. James brings a measured, thoughtful approach to every case, prioritizing clarity, strategic planning, and strong client communication.
Wise D. Allen Counsel
Wise D. Allen, Esquire , Counsel, is a former Veteran Lieutenant Commander Judge Advocate for the United States Military. He also has extensive knowledge and experience in resolving corporate defense and litigation in vast international and national legal issues.
He brings a wealth of successful experience to government contractors seeking defense counsel in the various areas of procurement fraud, international contracting, False Claims Act defense, and more.
Mr. Allen’s federal litigation experience as a former appellate attorney representing the United States and federal attorney for defendants in trials that led to his clients receiving overwhelmingly favorable outcomes in contested issues and obtaining non-contested resolutions. Read more..
For a FREE Initial Consultation, call 1.866.601.6618 and speak to Mr. Watson. When you’re under federal investigation, time is not on your side.
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
What is the False Claims Act?
The Department of Justice ( DOJ), Offices of Inspector General (OIG), and various federal law enforcement agencies investigate and litigate federal False Claims Act (FCA) lawsuits under 31 USC 3729 and 31 USC 3733. The FCA creates civil and criminal liability for individuals and or businesses that knowingly submit or cause to be submitted a false or fraudulent claim with intent to secure payment, some type of benefit or approval from a federal agency.
The Federal Claims Act is used as a civil or criminal tool to investigate and seek out individuals or businesses that directly or indirectly contract with the federal government and are paid for services. FCA defense cases are primarily targeted towards government contractors and healthcare providers.
The federal False Claims Act requires a “knowing” submission of a false or fraudulent claim where there is either actual knowledge or some level of reckless disregard or failure to conduct due diligence. Your False Claims Act investigation attorneys should defend your allegations by showing that you should not have known that you were acting contrary to legal requirements.
If the federal lawyer or prosecutor proves that you should have known that you were billing the government improperly, you could be found liable criminally or civilly for a Federal Claims Act violation. Having an experienced False Claims Act law firm can make the difference between getting a case dismissed and being found guilty by a jury at trial.
Clients Trust Our Defense Skills
Here’s what makes Watson & Associates different from other FCA attorneys: We’re not just False Claims Act lawyers. We’re former federal prosecutors and government contracting officials who’ve been on the other side of these investigations.
When you hire our Federal False Claims Act lawyers, you’re getting former government insiders who can:
• Predict the government’s next move in FCA investigations before they make it
• Speak the prosecutors’ language and negotiate from strength
• Use insider knowledge to find weaknesses in their False Claims
These lawsuits are often sealed with the courts and you, as a defendant, will not know that the government is investigating you.
In some cases, your constitutional rights can be violated. This often goes unnoticed. Watson’s team of False Claims Act attorneys builds aggressive defense teams for our clients. The stakes are high in both criminal and civil cases. With important experience in federal government contracting and healthcare, we treat every case as though we will be standing before a jury.
We also work with local counsel as part of our team when cases cannot be settled and must go to trial.
Examples of False Claims Cases We Defend
Government Contracting False Claims Act Defense:
How to turn a potential $50M False Claims Act penalty into a manageable settlement while keeping your security clearance and government contracts. Our former contracting officials know exactly how to negotiate with the agencies that are now investigating you.
Healthcare False Claims Act Defense:
How to resolve FCA kickback and billing investigations without losing your medical license or shutting down your practice. We understand both the clinical and business aspects of healthcare operations, providing us with unique insight into building your False Claims Act defense.
Qui Tam Whistleblower Defense:
How to defend against qui tam federal defense lawyer actions and minimize your exposure when former employees or competitors file False Claims Act lawsuits. We know how to separate you from co-defendants and challenge whistleblower credibility.
Federal Small Business Program FCA Defense:
How to prove legitimate small business status and avoid the ‘easy target’ trap that’s sending contractors to prison. We know the SBA regulations inside and out and can demonstrate your compliance with federal contracting requirements.
- Federal Construction Fraud
- Healthcare Fraud and Medical
- Engineering
- Service Contractors
- Manufacturers and Resellers
- Trade Agreements Act
- Buy American Act
- Federal Small Business Programs
- Kickbacks
- Truth in Negotiations Act False Claims
- Procurement Integrity Act
- False Claims Act & Qui Tam Defense
Legal False Claims Act Investigation Lawyers : General Legal Standard In FCA Cases
- Honest Mistakes, Inadvertence, and Mere Negligence Do Not Result in FCA Liability
- Opinions Regarding Conclusions of Law or Factual Adherence to Legal Standards Do Not Result in FCA Scienter
- Objective Ambiguity Without Subjective Knowledge Likely Does Not Result in Reckless Disregard or Deliberate Ignorance
In FCA cases, courts should look at whether you, the Defendant, knew the claim was false. If you correctly interpreted the relevant phrase and actually believed that your claims were false, then a court could rule against you. Looking for the best False Claims Act investigation lawyer for healthcare fraud?
Our Criminal and Civil healthcare False Claims Act investigation attorneys look for evidence in your favor.
What Are False Claims Act Penalties? Title 18 USC 287 and 31 USC 3729 – 31 USC 3733
When individuals, government contractors, or healthcare providers are investigated, indicted and charged for violations of the federal Claims Act, the penalties can be severe. Federal False Claims Act penalties can be either civil or criminal. At the beginning of the government’s case, you must understand that your case can either be civil or criminal, or both. One case is criminal and then another case can be civil. In any event, the penalties for either can be disastrous.
Civil Liability (31 USC 3729 and 31 USC 3733): The government can seek treble damages and a penalty of up to $ 11,000 per claim if you knowingly submit or cause the submission of a false or fraudulent claim to the United States.
Criminal Liability (Title 18 usc 287): Federal government contractors or Healthcare providers who intentionally submit fraudulent claims to the government for payment, or reimbursement, with the required knowledge that those claims were false, fictitious, or fraudulent can be liable and face five years of jail time and a fine of $ 250,000 (individuals) or $ 500,000 (corporation) for federal felony convictions and $ 100,000 (individuals) or $ 200,000 (companies) for misdemeanor convictions— for each claim. This is where having a False Claims Act investigation lawyer and a criminal defense attorney can be helpful.
Get Protection in Federal Criminal False Claims Act Defense Cases 18 USC 287
Whoever makes or presents to any person or officer in the civil, military, or naval service of the United States, or to any department or agency thereof, any claim upon or against the United States, or any department or agency thereof, knowing such claim to be false, fictitious, or fraudulent, shall be imprisoned not more than five years and shall be subject to a fine in the amount provided in this title.
Criminal False Claims Act 18 USC 287 therefore, only applies to:
- false or fraudulent claims against the United States itself, or
- any department or agency of the United States government
A false or fraudulent claim presented to a government employee demanding payment from the employee himself would not be covered.
Essentially, 18 USC 287 is a catch-all provision designed to criminalize those who attempt to obtain money, goods, or services from the United States government through its various departments and agencies via the presentation of false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims.
If You are Facing Federal Claims Act Federal Charges, Get Your Personal Defense Checklist Here.
What is the Burden of Proof for the False Claims Act?
What is the 60-day rule for the False Claims Act?
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Understanding Qui Tam or Whistleblower Lawsuits
Most False Claims Act investigations start with current or past employees or other contractors filing a sealed lawsuit on behalf of the federal government. These types of cases are referred to as Qui Tam or Whistleblower lawsuits. The Federal Claims Act statute allows individuals (referred to as “relators”) to file Qui Tam lawsuits that can in turn have the relator recover part of the monies recouped if the government intervenes in the case and takes over litigation.
Having a qui tam lawyer defend an FCA case against you is yet another reason that a federal defense lawyer can help.
Nationwide Federal False Claims Act Lawyer. For Defense, Litigation and Enforcement
Federal agents arrive at your office with a search warrant. Your employees are panicking. Your government contracts, or healthcare program revenues are at risk. The media will have the story by evening, and your reputation—built over decades—could be destroyed overnight.
You’re facing a False Claims Act investigation that could result in penalties of three times the alleged damages, plus $11,000 per false claim. For government contractors and healthcare providers, this often means millions in potential penalties.
You’ve probably tried to handle government inquiries through your general counsel. Maybe you’ve even hired a local attorney. But here’s what you’ve discovered: most lawyers have never sat across from federal prosecutors in FCA cases. They don’t understand how these FCA investigations really work.
Meanwhile, the government has unlimited resources, experienced prosecutors, and years to build its case. They have one goal: making an example out of successful businesses like yours.
But what if you had former federal prosecutors and government contracting officials on YOUR side?
When the stakes are high, clients call on Watson & Associates, LLC, federal False Claims Act defense attorneys and federal criminal defense lawyers in Washington, D.C., for assistance upon receiving a Civil Investigative Demand, DOJ or SEC subpoena, or complaint naming them in federal False Claims Act defense investigations or lawsuits.
Some FCA investigations start with a civil investigative demand (CID) from the DOJ or OIG. Other times, you may receive a DOJ subpoena in a criminal case for FCA allegations.
False Claims Act Lawyers and Anti-kickback Fraud Criminal Defense Attorneys in Washington DC. Federal investigators don’t wait – Call 1.866.601.5518.
Develop Sound False Claims Act Defense Strategies Early
If you are under investigation, have received an indictment for fraud or conspiracy to commit fraud for violation of government contracting or procurement regulations, or violation of False Claims Act healthcare laws, you must develop a sound legal defense to Federal Claims Act charges immediately.
Making an honest mistake or misunderstanding the law does not in itself mean that you violated the law. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our False Claims Act investigation attorneys are former federal lawyers and government contracting officials. Our goal is to aggressively challenge and dismantle whistleblower allegations and attack the element of “intent” that the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases under Title 18 USC 287.
- Our priority is to avoid criminal charges in Federal Claims Act cases and avoid expensive litigation
- We immediately engage with federal prosecutors to gain an understanding of the case.
- In Qui Tam cases our immediate goal is to convince the federal lawyers/prosecutors not to intervene in the case.
Resolution in Civil Cases. When you face allegations in a civil False Claims Act case, we aim to negotiate favorable settlements by exposing litigation risks to the prosecution and casting doubt on allegations that you violated government procurement laws and healthcare program laws.
Our Federal civil False Claims Act lawyers and criminal defense attorneys (Investigation and Defense) assist healthcare professionals, government contractors and businesses nationwide to avoid costly outcomes while minimizing the catastrophic impact on the company. Were you raided with a search warrant – was it valid? Find out more.
Constitutional Defense in Federal Fraud Cases – Usually Overlooked – Our False Claims Act Investigation Attorneys Protect Your Rights
When the federal government investigates fraud allegations under the False Claims Act—whether in federal contracts, healthcare billing, or procurement fraud—they often push legal boundaries to build their case. Many defense attorneys focus only on the criminal or regulatory aspects of the charges. However, constitutional violations are oftentimes the key to dismantling the prosecution’s case. Yet, this issue is often missed by False Claims Act investigation attorneys. This is where our FCA defense law firm stands apart.
Get Help Responding to Subpoenas and Civil Investigative Demands
We understand the importance of responding accurately and timely to False Claims Act investigation subpoenas and civil investigative demands.
Watson & Associates Federal Claims Act defense law firm is well-positioned to help you respond to such requests, including providing legal advice on privilege, relevance, and scope issues. As Federal Washington DC False Claims Act lawyers, we can also assist with document production and witness preparation.
We work closely with our clients to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. By collaborating with your team and utilizing our deep knowledge base in this area, we strive to provide an efficient response that achieves the best result for your business.
Our mission as DC False Claims Act investigation attorneys is to protect your interests while ensuring full compliance with Healthcare fraud or government contract procurement False Claims Act investigation requirements.
Has the government raided your home or business with a search warrant?
Federal agencies frequently obtain evidence through search warrants, subpoenas, and surveillance, but these methods are not always legally sound. If investigators exceed the scope of a warrant, seize protected business records, or conduct unlawful searches and seizures, they may have violated your Fourth Amendment rights. Evidence obtained improperly can often be challenged and suppressed, significantly weakening the case against you.
Unlike other firms that only understand the criminal and regulatory aspects of fraud cases, our team includes constitutional lawyers who analyze every detail of how evidence was gathered. As federal False Claims Act defense attorneys, we scrutinize whether the government relied on unlawful wiretaps, forced statements, or overbroad document seizures—critical mistakes that could lead to case dismissals or reduced charges.
Washington DC & Nationwide False Claims Act Law Firm
Our government contract and Healthcare fraud False Claims Act defense lawyers provide legal services covering all states. We assist federal small businesses, healthand large DoD contractors in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California False Claims Act defense lawyers, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada False Claims Act lawyers, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York False Claims Act defense attorney, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas False Claims Act Defense, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Cities in which our 18 USC 287 Federal False Claims Act healthcare attorneys assist federal government contractors include Anchorage, AK; Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Chicago, IL; Colorado Springs, CO; Dallas, TX; Denver, Colorado; Sacramento FCA criminal defense attorneys, Indianapolis, IN; Fort Lauderdale, FL: Baltimore, MD: Mobile, AL; Burminham FCA lawyers, AL; Chattannuga Tennessee; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; Miami, FL; Houston, Texas, Philadelphia, PA; San Antonio, TX; San Diego, CA; San Francisco, CA; San Jose, CA; Santa Clara, CA; and Tampa False Claims Act lawyers, FL.
Don’t Let the Federal False Claims Act Penalties Destroy Your Business
Every day you wait gives federal prosecutors more time to build their False Claims Act case against you. Every day you delay could be the difference between a manageable settlement and devastating penalties.
You have two choices:
1. Hope this FCA investigation goes away (it probably won’t)
2. Get former federal prosecutors and government employees on your side NOW
The Emergency FCA Defense Opportunity for will expire in 72 hours. We can only take 5 new cases this month.
Don’t become another False Claims Act cautionary tale.
GET YOUR EMERGENCY FCA DEFENSE ASSESSMENT NOW
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
We collect your information 24/7 for FCA emergencies. A single constitutional violation could change the outcome of your case. Contact our firm today to discuss how we can protect your rights and your future. Speak Directly to Federal False Claims Act defense attorney Theodore Watson. Call 1.866.601.5518.