False Claims Act Lawyers – Criminal Defense

Nationwide Federal False Claims Act Lawyers (Civil and Criminal) (FCA) and Whistleblower Defense Attorneys Help Government Contractors, the Healthcare Industry, Corporations, and Individuals Throughout the USA Seeking Help With Anticipated Litigation. We Help You Avoid Jail Time, Civil and Criminal Liability and Minimize Costly Legal Mistakes.

Federal False Claims Act Lawyers: Nationwide Defense from Watson & Associates, LLC

If you are facing allegations under the Federal False Claims Act (FCA), you will experience stress, and uncertainty, and become overwhelmed. The consequences of FCA investigations can be devastating, including steep financial penalties, criminal charges, and damage to your professional reputation.

At Watson & Associates, LLC, we specialize in defending CEOs, small businesses, and large corporations accused of violating the FCA. Our experienced False Claims Act lawyers bring decades of legal expertise to clients involved in government contracting, healthcare and PPP areas (limited types of cases). The law firm takes a client-centered approach to protect your rights and safeguard your future.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME

Who We Are: Watson & Associates, LLC

With over 30 years of combined legal experience, Watson & Associates, LLC is a trusted leader in federal False Claims Act defense and federal regulatory compliance. The law firm represents clients in federal civil and criminal cases across the country, providing strategic legal solutions tailored to your unique circumstances. Whether you are a government contractor, healthcare provider, or professional in another regulated industry, our team of litigators has the experience and knowledge to guide you through complex FCA litigation.

Our Advantages:

• Deep industry knowledge in government contracting, SBA, and healthcare regulations.

• A deep bench of experience to help you defend against federal whistleblower (qui tam) lawsuits.

• Nationwide representation and ability to litigate in federal courts.

• A proven record of minimizing liability, reducing penalties, and resolving cases efficiently.

What is the False Claims Act 31 USC 3729-3733?

Watson’s  civil False Claims Act lawyers and legal attorneys represent clients nationwide: The Civil False Claims Act, 31 USC sec. 3729-3733 protects the Federal Government from being overcharged by contractors or being invoiced for fraudulent goods or services. It is unlawful, for example, in the medical field to submit claims for payment to Medicare or Medicaid that the submitter knows are false or fraudulent. Filing false claims may result in fines of up to three times the program’s loss plus $11,000 per claim filed.

The FCA targets any person or company that does business with the federal government. Once the U.S. directly or indirectly pays for the service or product, the company or individual is subject to civil and/or criminal liability. If the company or individual knowingly submits or causes to be submitted invoices or other methods for payment or benefit, the company or individual is subject to the penalties of the FCA. 

Under the Civil FCA, each instance of an item or a service billed to Medicare or Medicaid counts as a claim. The fact that a claim results from a kickback to someone in violation of the Stark law also may make the claim false. Under the civil FCA, no specific intent to defraud is required.

The Civil FCA defines “knowing” to include actual knowledge and instances in which the person acted in deliberate ignorance or reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.

Penalties under the FCA include:

• Treble Damages: Up to three times the government’s financial loss.

• Per-Claim Fines: Significant penalties for each false claim submitted.

• Criminal Charges: Cases involving intentional fraud can escalate to federal criminal prosecution.

What Level of Knowledge Gets You Out of a  False Claims Act Case at Trial?

Either actual knowledge, deliberate ignorance, or recklessness will suffice for the government to win its case against you. Our Civil and Criminal False Claims Act attorneys help you to develop evidence to the contrary.

The Court starts with the text of the FCA. See Universal Health Services, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar, 579 U. S. 176, 187 (2016). The FCA defines the term “knowingly” as encompassing three mental states: First, you have “ actual knowledge of the information,” See 31 USC §3729(b)(1)(A)(i). Second, that you “act in deliberate ignorance of the truth or falsity of the information,” 31 USC 3729(b)(1)(A)(ii). And third, that you “act in reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.”

Who Are Our Clients?

We represent clients that include:

Criminal False Claims Act Penalty (18 USC 287).

Under the Criminal False Claims Act penalties, 18 USC 287, include imprisonment and criminal fines.   When it comes to the penalty for violating the criminal False Claims Act, Physicians have gone to prison for submitting false health care claims. OIG also may impose administrative, civil monetary penalties for false or fraudulent claims, as discussed below.

Industries Most Affected

Government Contracting

Government contractors are often targeted under the FCA due to the complexity of federal procurement laws. Allegations may involve:

• Billing Discrepancies: Overcharging or inflating invoices.

• Regulatory Non-Compliance: Failing to meet contract terms, cybersecurity standards, or Buy American Act requirements.

• Product Substitution: Delivering goods or services that differ from contractual specifications.

Our team at Watson & Associates has extensive experience defending contractors in procurement fraud and FCA investigations. We understand the intricacies of government contract law and provide robust representation to protect your interests.

Healthcare Providers

The healthcare industry faces intense FCA scrutiny due to federal reimbursement programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE. Common allegations include:

• Fraudulent Billing: Billing for unnecessary procedures or services not rendered.

• Kickbacks: Violating the Anti-Kickback Statute by providing or accepting improper financial incentives.

• Upcoding and Unbundling: Misrepresenting medical services to increase reimbursement.

Our False Claims Act defense attorneys understand the unique challenges healthcare providers face and leverage their expertise to challenge whistleblower claims and minimize potential liability.

What Makes Watson & Associates Defense Lawyers Different?

At Watson & Associates, LLC, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional legal services tailored to your needs. Here’s why clients choose us:

1. Nationwide Coverage: We provide defense in federal civil and criminal FCA cases across the United States.

2. Straight Talk: With decades of experience in federal courts, we give you straight talk so you can make informed decisions. We also don’t bring in clients that we do not think we can get a positive result for ( there is no guarantee of outcomes from us) No lawyer can guarantee outcomes. We come up with a plan of action that our clients are aware of.  

3. Strategic Defense: We immediately craft a tailored legal strategy to defend your case. The law firm focuses on minimizing penalties and resolving cases efficiently.

4. Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize discretion, transparency, and client communication to ensure a smooth and informed defense process.

Common Consequences of FCA Allegations

Federal False Claims Act investigations carry significant risks, including:

• Financial Penalties: Treble damages and expensive civil per-claim fines can cripple your business.

• Serious Criminal Charges: Intentional violations may lead to prison sentences. ( we know that federal prosecutors usually have a hard time proving intent to defraud)

• Reputational Damage: Allegations, even unproven, can harm careers and business relationships.

• Federal Suspension or Debarment: Contractors may be disqualified from future government work.

Legal Attorneys: 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 FCA lawyer for healthcare fraud? Our Criminal and Civil False Claims Act lawyers look for evidence in your favor.

• Government Contract Fraud
• Healthcare fraud False Claims Act defense
• Trade Agreements Act False Claims cases
• Buy American Act False Claims
• Cost accounting
• Inflated Costs
• Overpayment and overbilling
• Product substitution
• Unnecessary treatment
• Fraudulent billing

How We Build Your Legal Defense

Our approach to federal criminal False Claims Act cases combines our legal expertise with deep industry knowledge to deliver the best possible outcomes for your case. At Watson & Associates, our FCA defense strategies include:

• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We analyze every detail of the allegations to build a tailored defense strategy.

• Proactive Engagement: In addition to working directly with you and company management, we work directly with federal investigators and agencies to negotiate resolutions, with the goal of avoiding escalation to trial.

• Discreet Representation: Protecting your reputation and minimizing public exposure is a top priority.

• Trial-Ready Advocacy: While many FCA cases settle, we prepare every case for trial to ensure you are in the strongest position possible.

False Claims Act Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Should I Do If I Receive a Subpoena or Civil Investigative Demand?

Contact an experienced False Claims Act defense attorney immediately. Providing documents or making statements without legal counsel can put you at greater risk.

2. Can Honest Mistakes Lead to FCA Penalties?

Yes, under the FCA, liability extends to “reckless disregard” or “deliberate ignorance.” However, strong legal defense strategies is when we show o  demonstrate lack of intent or compliance with applicable regulations.

3. How Can Watson & Associates Help My Business?

We provide strategic, industry-specific defense that protects your business operations, reputation, and future. Our team focuses on getting results but without taking shortcuts.

Take the First Step Today

When you are facing False Claims Act allegations, the right legal representation can make all the difference. At Watson & Associates, LLC, we are committed to defending your rights, protecting your reputation, and resolving your case efficiently. We aggressively approach False Claims Act defense cases.  Our legal team is ready to provide the support you need.

If you received a target letter or subpoena from the OIG, HHS, OIG or FBI, call our Healthcare fraud defense and government contractor whistleblower attorneys at 1.866.601.5518 today.  Speak to Lead Counsel and False Claims Act lawyer and legal attorney Theodore Watson.

Free Attorney Consultation – How We Can Help You Defend Your False Claims Act Case?

Two essential elements of an FCA violation are (1) the falsity of the claim and (2) the defendant’s knowledge of the claim’s falsity. See U.S. ex rel. Schutte v. SuperValu Inc. The government prosecutors will have to show that you have the scienter required by the FCA and that you correctly understood that standard and thought that your submitted claims were inaccurate. You must know your claim to be false

Our job as False Claims Act attorneys is to show that you did not. This is especially true in allegations that you overcharged Medicare and Medicaid programs when seeking reimbursement for prescription drugs. Call us today to get a free attorney consultation. 1.866.601.5518.

Watson & Associates, LLC OIG and DOJ False Claims Act Criminal Defense Lawyers

We Understand the Government Contracting Laws That Ultimately Lead to FCA Violations: Our False Claims Act criminal defense lawyers and Government Contracting Practice Group collectively understand the various underlying legal issues that lead to a False Claims investigation. If are served with a Civil Investigative Demand, or a Subpoena in a Criminal False Claims Act Case, the law firm helps with responses and protection from self-incrimination.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME

Whistleblower Defense Representation False Claims Act Health Care Fraud Defense Attorneys

Free Attorney Consultation: FCA investigation defense healthcare: antikickback/ false claims defense attorney: Watson & Associates, LLC  offers aggressive defense for healthcare providers and manufacturers.  As healthcare False Claims Statute defense attorneys, we represent hospitals in a federal investigation for antikickback allegations or indicted federally for FCA allegations. Our Healthcare Fraud False Claims Act lawyers work with local counsel and will provide an experienced healthcare False Claims Act defense representation lawyer to defend your case aggressively.

Lead False Claims Act Lawyers and Practice Counsel:  Wise D. Allen      Theodore P. Watson    Walter H. Foster   

Contact Our False Claims Act Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation

If you are facing federal investigations or have concerns about potential FCA whistleblower liability or looking for healthcare criminal defense lawyers, do not hesitate to call our experienced government contractor civil and criminal False Claims Act lawyers. We are prepared to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the complexities of False Claims Act litigation and protect your business interests.

IF YOU'RE READY TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY BOOK A CALL HERE

Free Attorney Consultation: Call Watson’s healthcare False Claims Act lawyers and government contractor False Claims Act attorneys at 1.866.601.5518 for whistleblower defense representation and a Free Initial Consultation. Speak to Theodore Watson, Lead FCA Whistleblower defense lawyer.