Government Contractor Fraud Lawyer – Civil & Criminal Defense Attorneys
EMERGENCY: Federal Agents at Your Office? Government Contract Fraud Investigation?
Former Federal Prosecutors and Procurement Officials Defending Government Contractors Against Criminal Charges. Our Lines are Open 24/7. Call 1.866.601.5518
Federal investigators don’t make courtesy calls. When they contact you about government contractor fraud, they already believe you’ve committed a crime.
Received a Target Letter or Subpoena? Office Raided With Search Warrant?
- Don’t talk to federal investigators without an attorney present. Every word can be used against you.
- Call Our Government Contractor Emergency Line:(866) 601-5518
- 24/7 Response for Contractors Under Investigation
GET YOUR EMERGENCY LEGAL ASSESSMENT
When the FBI or DOJ Targets Government Contractors, Your Business & Freedom Are at Risk
A single government contract fraud investigation can destroy everything you’ve built. Criminal charges, massive fines, permanent debarment from federal contracting, and prison time. The Department of Justice doesn’t just want money – they want criminal convictions that send a message to the entire contracting community.
Our former federal prosecutors know exactly how these cases are built because we used to build them for the government. We understand government contracting, federal regulations, and DOJ enforcement priorities.
You don’t have to get through this on your own: Every year, thousands of legitimate government contractors find themselves in the cross hairs of federal investigations for alleged procurement fraud, False Claims Act violations, or contract compliance failures. The difference between those who survive these investigations and those who lose everything often comes down to one critical decision: choosing the right government contractor fraud lawyer.
Government Contract Fraud Charges We Defend
Other Common types of cases that our government fraud lawyers handle include:
- General Contractor Fraud
- False Claims Act Violations (FCA Claims – Civil and Criminal)
- Allegations of submitting false invoices, claims, or certifications to the government
- Bid rigging, kickbacks, contract manipulation, or competitive bidding violations
- Improper allocation of costs to government contracts, labor mischarging, or overhead violations
- Defective Pricing
- Cost Mischarging
- Overcharging the Government
- Bribing Government Officials
- Progress Payment Fraud
- Price Fixing
- Defective Products
- Kickback to Government Officials
- Billing for Services Not Performed
- Procurement Fraud
- Roofing Contractor Fraud Lawyer
- Buy American Act fraud and
- Trade Agreements Act Compliance Fraud
- SBA small business fraud (SDVOSB, 8(a) BD,and HUBZone certification fraud and size standard violations
- FAR non-compliance fraud disputes
- Mentor protege and pass-through schemes
The Government Contract Fraud Investigation Process
Stage 1: Initial Investigation: Federal agents interview employees, request documents, or execute search warrants. <strong>This is when you need immediate legal protection.
Stage 2: Target Letter or Subpoena: You receive official notification that you’re under investigation. This is your last chance to influence the outcome before charges are filed.
Stage 3: Criminal Charges Filed: If the government decides to prosecute, you’ll face federal criminal charges that can result in 10-20 years in prison and permanent debarment.
Stage 4: Trial or Plea Agreement: The case goes to trial, or you negotiate a plea agreement. Either way, your business and freedom are at stake.
Meet Our National Defense Contractor Fraud Team Leads
Our national lead attorney has over 20 years of experience in federal procurement. Theodore P. Watson (U.S. Air Force Retired Veteran and Former Federal Procurement Official). He is a US Supreme Court – Licensed attorney with extensive federal criminal defense experience who is committed to defending federal contractors against False Claims Act charges.Call and Speak Directly to Mr. Watson at 1.866.601.5518.
Cheryl Adams (Associate Attorney – Former Federal Contracting Officer)
Cheryl Adams is an Associate Attorney with Watson and Associates, LLC. She is a former federal Contracting Officer with years of hands-on experience with all phases of federal procurement. She brings to clients an intimate understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and an insider perspective on the procurement processes of a federal government headquarters.
She understands the government’s relationships with small businesses and subcontractors, as well as relationships with Fortune 500 corporations.
She has worked side by side with government auditors, and personally conducted government property audits. She has handled all sizes of contract award from micropurchases through major systems.
She has cradle-to-grave hands-on operational experience with all phases and all types of government contracting processes, from acquisition planning through contract closeout. Read more..
Chris Mancini – Of Counsel (Former DOJ Prosecutor)
Chris Mancini, Counsel, brings 45 years of legal experience to Watson & Associates, to support the firm’s federal white collar defense attorney services, including eight years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
He has handled high-profile white collar crime cases and is a well respected criminal defense attorney
If you are a defense contractor and have been indicted or investigated for a federal white collar crime, you should hire experienced white collar crime lawyers to protect your rights and fight back. Read more.
Carolyn L. Oliver – Of Counsel (Former DOJ Prosecutor)
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 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…
Robert “Bob” Ayers – Of Counsel (Defense Attorney)
Jennifer Higgins (Former SBA Attorney)
Of Counsel to Watson & Associates, LLC: Jennifer Higgins brings a wealth of experience in government procurement and small business law to Watson & Associates. As a former SBA lawyer, and senior attorney for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), she offers clients a deep understanding of federal regulations and the inner workings of government agencies. Her background in both federal service and private practice makes her a valuable asset to the firm’s government procurement practice and contractor litigation team.Wise D. Allen, Esquire – Counsel
Wise D. Allen, Esquire, Counsel, A former Veteran Lieutenant Commander Judge Advocate for the United States Military, Wise Allen brings extensive knowledge and experience in resolving corporate defense and litigation in vast international and national legal issues.
Mr. Allen’s federal litigation experience as a former appellate attorney representing the United States and a federal white collar criminal defense attorneyfor defendants in trials that led to his clients receiving overwhelmingly favorable outcomes in contested issues and obtaining non-contested resolutions. Read more..
John M. Brandon (Former Prosecutor)
Jon M. Brandon, Of Counsel, is a gifted, award-winning criminal trial lawyer and federal criminal defense lawyer who has spent his career in a courtroom trying complex, high-profile cases. Mr. Brandon was a top prosecutor at one of the largest district attorney offices in the nation, where he also worked as a cross-sworn federal prosecutor (Special Assistant US Attorney) on a large RICO matter.
During his 15-year tenure as a prosecutor in California, Mr. Brandon tried dozens of high-profile trials. He has tried more than 80 trials to verdict. He established himself as an extraordinary white collar trial attorney by winning some of the most serious and complex murder cases statewide.
After serving many years as a homicide prosecutor and government agency leader, Mr. Brandon has turned his attention over the last several years to being a white-collar federal criminal defense lawyer and civil litigation attorney in Texas and the southern region, expanding his repertoire and continuing to employ his litigation skills. Mr. Brandon’s passion for representing individuals, businesses, and organizations thrust into investigations or litigation is apparent in his meticulous case preparation, client-centered approach, insider knowledge, and trial skills. He works tirelessly to ensure every client receives top-notch advocacy and a formidable defense. Read More.
GET YOUR EMERGENCY LEGAL ASSESSMENT
Why Government Contractors Choose Our Defense Team
Former Procurement and Federal DOJ Prosecutor Experience: We know how the government builds cases against contractors because we used to build them. We understand DOJ priorities and tactics.
Government Contracting Expertise: We are well-versed in the FAR, DFARS, and all relevant federal contracting regulations. We know the difference between mistakes and fraud.
Emergency Response for Government Contractor Fraud Investigations
When federal investigators contact you about government contractor fraud, it is a serious matter that requires immediate attention. The initial hours of an investigation are critical, and the actions you take can have a significant impact on the outcome. Our government contractor fraud lawyers are available 24/7 to provide emergency legal assistance.
We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with a federal investigation, and we are here to guide you through the process. A federal fraud lawyer from our team can help you understand your rights and protect your interests.
We have a team of experienced government fraud lawyers who can provide immediate assistance. Do not hesitate to contact our government contractor fraud lawyers for a free consultation.
Comprehensive Government Contract Fraud Defense Services
Our government contract fraud lawyers provide comprehensive defense services for all types of government contract fraud allegations. We possess a deep understanding of federal procurement laws and regulations, which we utilize to construct robust defenses for our clients. Our federal fraud lawyers have experience in a wide range of cases, including:
- False Claims Act Violations: We defend clients against allegations of submitting false or fraudulent claims to the government.
- Bid Rigging and Collusion: Our defense contractor fraud lawyers have experience in cases involving allegations of bid rigging and collusion.
- Cost Mischarging: We represent clients in cases involving allegations of cost mischarging and other accounting irregularities.
- Defective Pricing: Our government defense contractor fraud attorneys can help you defend against allegations of defective pricing.
Our federal fraud attorneys have a proven track record of success in defending clients against all types of government fraud allegations. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality legal representation. Contact our government contractor fraud lawyers today to learn more about our services.
Civil Investigative Demand (CID) Federal Fraud Lawyer
A Civil Investigative Demand (CID) is a powerful tool that the Department of Justice (DOJ) uses to investigate potential violations of the False Claims Act. If you receive a CID, it is a clear indication that you are under investigation for government fraud. It is crucial to take this matter seriously and seek legal counsel immediately. Our government fraud lawyers have extensive experience responding to CIDs and navigating the complexities of DOJ investigations.
A federal fraud lawyer from our team will work with you to understand the scope of the CID, preserve all relevant evidence, and prepare a comprehensive and strategic response. We will also negotiate with the DOJ to narrow the scope of the CID and protect your rights throughout the investigation. Our goal is to resolve the investigation as quickly and efficiently as possible, while minimizing your risk of liability. Our government contractor fraud attorneys are here to help.
Defense Contractor Fraud Lawyers. – False Claims Act Defense for Government Contract Fraud
The False Claims Act (FCA) is a federal law that imposes liability on individuals and companies who defraud governmental programs. In the context of government contractor fraud, this often involves submitting false or fraudulent claims to the government. The FCA also allows private citizens, known as whistleblowers or relators, to file lawsuits on behalf of the government. These lawsuits, known as qui tam actions, can yield substantial financial rewards for the whistleblower if the case is successful. As a leading defense contractor fraud law firm, we have extensive experience defending clients against FCA allegations. Our procurement fraud lawyers will thoroughly investigate the claims, challenge the government’s evidence, and work to achieve a favorable outcome, whether through dismissal, settlement, or trial. Our defense contractor fraud lawyers also represent clients who are facing retaliation for reporting government contract fraud. Our government contract fraud lawyers are here to protect your interests.
Don’t Let the Government Destroy Your Business
Every day you wait is another day the government builds its case against you. Federal investigators are working around the clock to gather evidence. Are you?
Call Our Government Contractor Emergency Hotline: (866) 601-5518.
Free Confidential Consultation – Former Federal Prosecutors Available 24/7
Understanding Government Contractor Fraud: Types, Investigations, and Defense Strategies
Government contractor fraud encompasses a wide range of alleged violations that can trap even the most ethical businesses. Understanding these fraud types and their potential defenses is crucial for any government contractor facing a federal investigation.
False Claims Act Violations
The False Claims Act represents the government’s most powerful weapon against alleged government contractor fraud. Originally enacted during the Civil War to combat fraud by military suppliers, the FCA now covers virtually every aspect of government contracting.
A government contractor fraud attorney must understand that FCA violations don’t require intent to defraud—even negligent misrepresentations can trigger massive penalties.
Common False Claims Act allegations against government contractors include:
- Billing Fraud: Submitting invoices for work not performed, materials not delivered, or services that don’t meet contract specifications. Defense strategies often focus on proving that any billing errors were unintentional and that the contractor provided legitimate value to the government.
- Certification Fraud: Making false certifications about compliance with contract requirements, small business status, or regulatory standards.
- A skilled government contractor fraud lawyer can often demonstrate that certifications were made in good faith based on reasonable interpretations of complex regulations.
- Cost Mischarging: Allocating costs to the wrong contracts or charging the government for unallowable expenses.
- Defense requires a detailed analysis of cost accounting standards and demonstration that any errors were inadvertent.
- Product Substitution: Providing products that don’t meet contract specifications or substituting cheaper materials without authorization.
- Effective defense often involves proving that substitutions were approved or that products met functional requirements despite technical non-compliance.
When You Hire Our Government Contractor Fraud Lawyers, Your Chances of Avoiding Jail Time or Hefty Fines are Substantially Increased
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Emergency Response Procedures: What to Do When Federal Investigators Contact You
When federal investigators contact your company about potential government contractor fraud, your response in the first 24-48 hours can determine the entire trajectory of your case. Having a clear emergency response plan can mean the difference between a manageable Government Investigations and criminal charges that destroy your business.
Immediate Response Protocol
- Step 1: Document the Contact – Record all details of investigator contact including names, agencies, badge numbers, and the specific nature of their inquiry.
- Step 2: Invoke Right to Counsel – Politely inform investigators that you want to have your government contractor fraud attorney present before answering any questions.
- Step 3: Contact Watson & Associates Immediately – Call 1.866.601.5518 immediately to reach our emergency response team.
- Step 4: Implement Document Preservation – Issue immediate litigation hold instructions to all employees.
- Step 5: Control Information Flow – Instruct all employees not to speak to investigators without legal counsel present.
Nationwide Lead Defense Contractor Fraud Law Firm
Our government contractor fraud attorney services cover all states regarding federal civil and criminal matters. We assist federal small businesses and large DoD contractors in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California defense contractor fraud lawyer, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland government contractor fraud lawyers, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico defense contractor fraud law firm, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee defense contractor fraud lawyer, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands defense contractor fraud lawyer, Utah, Vermont, Virginia defense contractor fraud lawyer, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Cities in which our government contract fraud attorneys assist federal government contractors include Anchorage, AK; Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Chicago, IL; Colorado Springs, CO; Dallas federal fraud lawyer, TX; Denver, Colorado; Indianapolis, IN; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles government contractor fraud lawyer, CA; Fort Lauderdale, Gainesville, Miami government contractor fraud attorneys, FL; Philadelphia, PA; San Antonio, TX; San Diego defense contractor fraud lawyer, CA; Houston government contractor fraud lawyers; San Francisco, CA; San Jose, CA; Santa Clara, CA; and Tampa, FL.
Why Choose Our Government Contractor Fraud Attorneys
When you are facing allegations of government contractor fraud, you need a legal team that has the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and interests. Our government contractor fraud attorneys have a proven track record of success in defending clients against all types of government fraud allegations. We are a dedicated defense contractor fraud law firm that understands the unique challenges that government contractors face. Our government contract fraud lawyers have the experience to handle even the most complex cases. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality legal representation and personalized attention. Our defense contractor fraud lawyers will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. As a top government contractor fraud lawyer, Theodore Watson leads a team of dedicated professionals. We are the government contract fraud lawyer team you need on your side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Government Contract Fraud
What are the penalties for government contract fraud?
The penalties for government contract fraud can be severe, including substantial fines, exclusion from federal contracts, and even prison time. The specific penalties will depend on the nature and extent of the fraud. An experienced government contract fraud lawyer can help you understand the potential penalties you are facing and work to minimize them.
How long does a government contract fraud investigation take?
A government contract fraud investigation can take months or even years to complete. The length of the investigation will depend on the complexity of the case and the resources of the investigating agency. It is important to have a government contractor fraud lawyer on your side throughout the investigation to protect your rights and ensure that the investigation is conducted fairly.
Can government contract fraud charges be dismissed?
Yes, it is possible for government contract fraud charges to be dismissed. An experienced defense contractor fraud lawyer can identify weaknesses in the government’s case and file motions to have the charges dismissed. It is also possible to negotiate a favorable plea agreement with the government that may result in reduced charges or penalties.
Schedule Your Free, Confidential Consultation Today
If you are facing a government contract fraud investigation or have been charged with a related crime, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you have an experienced government contract fraud lawyer on your side, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. At Watson & Associates, our procurement fraud lawyers are here to help you navigate this difficult time and fight for your rights.
Contact Watson & Associates, LLC, federal government contractor fraud attorneys today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
EMERGENCY GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR FRAUD CONSULTATION
Available 24/7 – Call 1.866.601.5518 NOW or contact us by e-mail