Federal False Claims Act Lawyer & Defense Attorneys
Get Your Civil and Criminal Exposure and Liability Reduced: The Civil and Criminal False Claims Act, 18 USC 287 and 31 USC 3729 – 3733.
Our Defense Team Includes Former DOJ Attorneys, Prosecutors and Government Agency Officials. Nationwide White Collar Federal Defense Cases | Emergency Consultation Available 1.866.601.5518. We Help Federal Contractors, Corporate CEOS and Healthcare Professionals Facing Federal Charges.
The plan of attack for top Federal False Claims Act lawyers (FCA) should be to get an investigation thrown out and or your case dismissed.
The realistic approach is to immediately start working with federal prosecutors, get an understanding of the root problem and only then can a feasible negotiation begin.
Getting notice of an FCA investigation can immediately impact the company’s progress and success, while your representation could be also at risk.
Immediate Federal False Claims Act Representation: Protecting Your Business from Devastating Penalties
- Facing a False Claims Investigation? Don’t let it jeopardize your livelihood—discover how proactive defense strategies can protect your reputation and finances.
- Severe Penalties, Including Treble Damages, Could Be on the Line—learn how to navigate complex federal regulations to avoid crippling liability.
- Your Business Rights Matter: Find out how to defend against whistleblower claims and government overreach with experienced legal guidance.
- Time Is Critical. You Must Act Now: Federal investigations move quickly—learn why taking immediate action could mean the difference between dismissal and damaging consequences.
Nationwide Government Fraud Defense Team
Firm’s Lead Federal False Claims Act Criminal Defense Lawyers
Speak to National Practice Leader Theodore Watson (Over 23 Years of Federal Practice, Air Force (Retired) Veteran, and Former DOD Agency Official) – Admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States.
- He oversees False Claims Act Medicare fraud criminal defense attorneys, qui tam defense lawyers, and federal healthcare fraud attorneys.
Speak Directly to Theodore Watson.Top False Claims Act lawyer 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.
Carolyn L. Oliver – Counsel (Former DOJ Attorney)
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 Southern 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 (Former DOJ Attorney)
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 Los Angeles white collar crime lawyers to protect your rights and fight back. Read more.
Robert “Bob” Ayers – Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Wise D. Allen Counsel (Defense Lawyer)
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.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Our Federal False Claims Act lawyers and Washington DC federal 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.
NATIONWIDE HELP FOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS, CLIENTS IN THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY, CORPORATIONS AND CEO’S INVOLVED IN A FALSE CLAIMS ACT INVESTIGATION OR TRIAL.
What is the Federal 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 Federal False Claims Act is used as the civil or criminal tool used by federal law enforcement agencies to seek out individuals or businesses that directly or indirectly contract with the federal government and are paid for services.
Similar to government contract False Claims Act cases, health companies are also targeted for imposing liability for any person or business that “knowingly” submits or causes to be submitted a false or fraudulent claim with intent to secure payment or approval from the federal government.
When prosecutors go after the requirement for a “knowing submission of a false or fraudulent claim” this means that you can have either actual knowledge or they can provide that you failed to conduct due diligence (should have known.).
Our goal as Washington DC False Claims Act defense attorney is to disprove that you did everything reasonable to not be charged.
Constitutional Defense in Federal Fraud Cases – Usually Overlooked – Our False Claims Act Lawyers Protect Your Rights
When the government investigates fraud allegations—whether in government 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 these charges. However, constitutional violations are often the key to dismantling the prosecution’s case, and this is where our firm stands apart.
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. 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.
If you are being investigated or charged with fraud, do not assume the government followed the law in building its case. 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 to Theodore Watson. Call 1.866.601.5518.
Federal Civil False Claims Act 31 USC 3729 – 3733 – Key Things to Know
The Federal False Claims Act (FCA) applies to individuals, businesses, and federal government contractors in Maryland who directly or indirectly are involved with a federal government contract, grant, healthcare program, PPP Loan fraud, or other method of receiving payment or benefit from the government.
- a) Liability for Certain Acts.-
(1) In general.-Subject to paragraph (2), any person who-
(A) knowingly presents, or causes to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval;
(B) knowingly makes, uses, or causes to be made or used, a false record or statement material to a false or fraudulent claim;
(C) conspires to commit a violation of subparagraph (A), (B), (D), (E), (F), or (G);
(D) has possession, custody, or control of property or money used, or to be used, by the Government and knowingly delivers, or causes to be delivered, less than all of that money or property;
(E) is authorized to make or deliver a document certifying receipt of property used, or to be used, by the Government and, intending to defraud the Government, makes or delivers the receipt without completely knowing that the information on the receipt is true;
(F) knowingly buys, or receives as a pledge of an obligation or debt, public property from an officer or employee of the Government, or a member of the Armed Forces, who lawfully may not sell or pledge property; or
(G) knowingly makes, uses, or causes to be made or used, a false record or statement material to an obligation to pay or transmit money or property to the Government, or knowingly conceals or knowingly and improperly avoids or decreases an obligation to pay or transmit money or property to the Government,is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not less than $5,000 and not more than $10,000, as adjusted by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (28 U.S.C. 2461 note; Public Law 104–410 1), plus 3 times the amount of damages which the Government sustains because of the act of that person.
(2) Reduced damages.-If the court finds that-
(A) the person committing the violation of this subsection furnished officials of the United States responsible for investigating false claims violations with all information known to such person about the violation within 30 days after the date on which the defendant first obtained the information;
(B) such person fully cooperated with any Government investigation of such violation; and
(C) at the time such person furnished the United States with the information about the violation, no criminal prosecution, civil action, or administrative action had commenced under this title with respect to such violation, and the person did not have actual knowledge of the existence of an investigation into such violation,
Federal prosecutors have to show that you knowingly submit or cause the submission of a false claim for payment or approval by the federal government. For government contractors, it may involve submitting an invoice for payment, bidding on a project, or certifying information to be eligible for SBA small business programs. The federal False Act under 18 USC 287 also applies to healthcare professionals in Maryland and applicants for the SBA PPP loan.
Federal prosecutors will present a case suggesting that, regardless of your legal defense, you should have known about the False Claim. Under the FCA, actual knowledge is not required.
Federal False Claims Act Lawyers & 18 USC 287 Criminal Defense Attorney
FEDERAL FALSE, FICTITIOUS, OR FRAUDULENT CLAIMS – 18 U.S.C. § 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.
18 U.S.C. § 287 defines the federal crime of false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims. This statute doesn’t apply to all false claims. It mostly applies to claims made or to military, or naval service of the government, or to a department thereof for claims against the United States government.
In other words, this statute only applies to false or fraudulent claims against the United States government, or a department or agency within it. It addresses knowingly presenting false, fraudulent, or fictitious claims.
Federal prosecutors apply 18 USC 287 if you attempt to obtain money (whether or not you actually. Federal lawyers often use this criminal False Claims Act statute in health care fraud and Stark law cases.
It should be noted that the federal prosecutor must be able to prove a defendant knowingly intended to deceive the government to provide them with a payment knowing they were not entitled to receive.
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 catchall provision designed to criminalize those who attempt to obtain money, goods, or services from the United States government through its various departments and agencies by presenting false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims. If you are looking for an 18 USC 287 False Claims Act lawyer and federal criminal defense attorney, contact our office immediately.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
What Are False Claims Act Penalties Under 18 USC 287 and 31 USC 3729 – 3733?
What is the penalty for violating the False Claims Act? You can face both civil and criminal penalties. Sometimes, a civil case can also lead to a criminal case. The following is a baseline structure of federal False Claims Act penalties.
- Civil Liability: Triple 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 (18 USC 287): Healthcare providers who intentionally present fraudulent claims to the government for reimbursement with the knowledge that such claims were false, fictitious, or fraudulent are exposed to False Claims Act criminal penalties of five-year imprisonment and a fine of $ 250,000 (individuals) or $ 500,000 (companies) for federal felony convictions and $ 100,000 (individuals) or $ 200,000 (companies) for misdemeanor convictions— for each claim.
Federal False Claims Act Investigation Attorneys, Litigation and Enforcement
Watson & Associates, LLC is a boutique-size law firm that aggressively represents individuals, government contractor, or healthcare professionals facing charges of government fraud enforcement investigations and actions under the federal False Claims Act (civil and criminal).
When the stakes are high, clients call on Watson & Associates, LLC, federal False Claims Act lawyers and federal criminal defense attorneys 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.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
None of these interactions are good. Nevertheless, you can effectively deal with them when you have the right federal False Claims Act law Firm on your team.
The goal is to defuse and prevent attempts to defraud the federal government. The CFA states that any person knowingly submitting a false claim to the government is liable for treble damages plus a penalty.
Nationwide and Washington DC Government Contractor Federal False Claims Act Lawyers
Watson & Associates LLC represents a diverse clientele of government contractors, including individuals and companies from various industries. As FCA fraud case attorneys in Washington DC we help with False Claims Act defense investigations and cases related to fraud under the Act.
This includes accusations of breaking the law in areas like procurement and kickbacks. These cases are brought by the US government or whistleblowers. Using our attorneys’ government contracting experience, we have a good record of helping clients with False Claims Act matters.
Our Washington DC False Claims Act lawyers offer comprehensive counsel to clients at every phase of an FCA civil proceeding. This includes the important investigation phase when the qui tam case is kept secret until the trial and appeal.
Types of Federal False Claims Act Defense Cases
Our team knows a lot about healthcare and government contracts law. We are also good at dealing with FCA challenges. This helps us come up with legal strategies to reduce federal 18 USC 287 and 31 USC. 3729 – 3733 False Claims Act liabilities. Our Washington, DC federal criminal defense False Claims Act lawyers specialize in defending a variety of False Claims Act defense cases, providing valuable advice throughout the investigation, litigation, and settlement process.
- Construction
- Healthcare 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
False Claims Act Lawyers and Anti-kickback Fraud Criminal Defense Attorneys. Call Today for a Free Initial Consultation (Confidential) at 1.866.601.5518.
Federal False Claims Act Attorneys – 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 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 criminal defense attorneys, 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 lawyers, is to protect your interests while ensuring full compliance with Healthcare fraud or government contract procurement False Claims Act investigation requirements.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Aggressive False Claims Act Defense Lawyers for Healthcare Fraud Investigation Attorney Cases Washington DC and Nationwide
When you retain our law office, the first plan of attack is to immediately contact federal lawyers to establish a rapport and to focus on minimizing the likelihood of trial. With our client’s decision makers being heavily involved in the process, our healthcare fraud False Claims Act lawyers clients focus on planning and execution for the minimum impact.
A trial should be the last resort. However, when there is already a grand jury indictment, avoiding trial can be more of a challenge. Our Washington DC False Claims Act defense lawyers and criminal defense understand that being convicted by a jury is the last thing any client wants.
START DEFENDING YOUR CASE NOW — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
Nationwide Federal Civil and Criminal False Claims Act Lawyers
Our federal False Claims Act lawyers and FCA criminal defense attorneys (18 USC 287 and 31 USC. 3729 – 3733 lawyers) can provide legal defense in most states including Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland False Claims Act defense attorney, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada 18 USC 287 defense lawyer, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Criminal False claims Act lawyers, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Cities in which our civil annd criminal False Claims Act cases include Anchorage, AK; Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, Maryland; Detroit, MI; Austin, TX; Baltimore MD, Chicago, IL; Colorado Springs, CO; Dallas, Fortworth TX; Denver, Colorado; Dallas, Indianapolis, IN; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles criminal False Claims Act 18 USC 287 and Civil False Claims Act 31 USC. 3729 – 3733 Attorneys, CA; Tampa, LF; Miami, FL; Orlando FL, Philadelphia, Phoenix Arizona, Houston Texas 18 USC 287 and 31 USC. 3729 – 3733 lawyers, Fort Lauderdale White Collar Crime Lawyer, Texas PA; San Antonio, TX; Sacramento Defense False Claims Act Lawyers, San Diego, CA; San Francisco False Claims Act lawyer , CA; San Jose, CA; Santa Clara, CA; and Tampa, FL.
Call us at 1.866.601.5518 and speak to Theodore Watson
How Watson’s False Claims Act Defense Lawyers Can Help
Watson & Associates’ Federal False Claims Act lawyers and Washington DC federal criminal defense attorneys are experienced legal professionals who can provide valuable assistance to individuals or entities facing allegations or litigation under the FCA.
These lawyers know a lot about FCA cases and understand the laws and rules about government contracts and procurement fraud.
They can offer comprehensive legal representation and strategic defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. We help with False Claims Act investigations, responding to Civil Investigative Demands and subpoenas and criminal defense in even high profile cases.
Watson & Associates’ Washington DC healthcare fraud defense lawyers and FCA criminal defense attorneys can thoroughly investigate the allegations and evidence presented against their clients.
They will analyze the facts and review contracts, invoices, and other relevant documents to build a strong defense. They know much about the False Claims Act and how courts and government agencies interpret it. This helps them find problems in the government’s case.
START DEFENDING YOUR CASE NOW — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
Contact Our False Claims Act Lawyers and 18 USC 287 and 31 USC. 3729 – 3733 Defense Law Firm
If you seek legal representation for a FCA case involving a federal contract or healthcare fraud allegation under 18 USC 287 and 31 USC. 3729 – 3733
, contact Watson & Associates LLC toll-free at 1.866.601.5518. Speak to. Theodore P. Watson, False Claims Act lawyer and Practice Leader.