Los Angeles Government Contract Fraud Attorney

EMERGENCY 24/7 HOTLINE DEFENSE FOR LOS ANGELES & SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS

URGENT: Under Federal Investigation for Government Contract Fraud in Los Angeles? Your Business, Reputation, and Freedom are at Stake. Hire a Former Federal Prosecutor Who Knows the Central District of California.

It’s 7:00 AM in El Segundo. You’re the CEO of a successful aerospace company that supplies critical components to the Department of Defense. Suddenly, FBI agents are at your door with a search warrant. Your employees are being questioned, your computers are being seized, and your business is grinding to a halt. You’ve just become the target of a federal government contract fraud investigation in the Central District of California.

This is not a business problem; it’s a crisis that threatens to destroy everything you’ve built. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California is one of the most aggressive in the nation, and they are targeting you for both criminal prosecution (jail time) and civil penalties (treble damages) under the False Claims Act. You need a Los Angeles government contract fraud attorney who has been on the inside. You need a lawyer who has prosecuted cases in the very district that is now targeting you.

At Watson & Associates, our elite team of Southern California government contracts lawyers includes former DOJ prosecutors, a former federal procurement executive, and seasoned white-collar criminal defense attorneys. We have decades of experience defending aerospace and defense contractors, construction companies, and small businesses throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. When your business and liberty are on the line, you need a legal team that knows how to fight the federal government.

Speak Directly With a Former Federal Prosecutor Who Served in Southern California

“As a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of California, I prosecuted complex federal fraud cases. I know the playbook used by federal prosecutors in Los Angeles because I used to write it. I understand how they build cases, the evidence they look for, and the weaknesses in their arguments. Do not make the critical mistake of speaking to federal agents or trying to handle this alone. The stakes are too high. Call me directly for a confidential, immediate consultation.”

– Carolyn L. Oliver, Former DOJ Prosecutor

Carolyn L. Oliver – Of Counsel (former DOJ attorney – California Criminal Defense Lead 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 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 crime lawyer 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.

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…

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.

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 Defense Attorney

With over 20 years of experience in high-stakes federal cases,Bob Ayers has represented corporate executives, public officials, and in-house counsel in matters involving fraud, bribery, obstruction of justice, and other financial and regulatory offenses.

Background:

•20+ years of federal criminal defense experience

•Former prosecutor experience

•Corporate executive representation

•Complex financial crime expertise

Known for his clear, grounded, and personable approach, he guides clients through every stage—from quiet internal investigations to trial preparation—bringing discretion, focus, and a steady hand as a federal white collar crime lawyer. His practice is further strengthened by strategic collaborations with former prosecutors, forensic experts, and regulatory specialists. Read more

Immediate Steps to Take if You’ve Received a Subpoena, CID, or Target Letter in Los Angeles

If you have received a subpoena, a Civil Investigative Demand (CID), or a target letter from a federal agency like the DOJ, DOD, OIG, or FBI, you are officially under investigation for procurement fraud in Southern California. This is a critical moment. The actions you take in the next 24 hours can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It is imperative that you do not attempt to handle this on your own.

Our Los Angeles government investigation attorneys can intervene immediately to:

• Manage all communications with federal agents and prosecutors.
• Protect your constitutional rights and prevent you from making incriminating statements.
• Begin building a proactive defense by analyzing the government’s allegations and gathering exculpatory evidence.
• Challenge the scope and validity of the subpoena or CID.
• Negotiate with the government to potentially avoid criminal charges or reduce civil penalties.

We have extensive experience responding to CIDs and subpoenas from all major federal agencies and have successfully defended clients in the Central and Eastern Districts of California.

Defending Los Angeles Aerospace & Defense Contractors

Los Angeles is the epicenter of the nation’s aerospace and defense industry. From the major prime contractors in El Segundo and Redondo Beach to the hundreds of subcontractors throughout Southern California, the region is a primary focus for federal fraud enforcement. Our Los Angeles aerospace defense attorneys understand the unique challenges facing this industry.

We defend contractors against a wide range of allegations, including:

• Defective Pricing & TINA Violations: Allegations of providing inaccurate or incomplete cost and pricing data during contract negotiations.
• Buy American Act (BAA) & Trade Agreements Act (TAA) Violations: Investigations into the country of origin for products and components.
• Cost Mischarging: Allegations of improperly billing costs to government contracts, including labor, materials, and overhead.
• Product Substitution: Accusations of providing products that do not meet contract specifications.
• False Claims Act & Qui Tam Lawsuits: Defending against whistleblower lawsuits alleging fraud against the government.

Whether you are a prime contractor for the DOD or a small business supplier to NASA, our defense contractor fraud lawyers in Los Angeles have the experience and knowledge to protect your interests.

Criminal vs. Civil Government Contract Fraud Defense in Los Angeles

A federal investigation in Los Angeles can proceed down two tracks simultaneously: criminal prosecution and civil enforcement. It is critical to understand the difference and have a legal team that can defend you on both fronts.

Criminal Defense: What’s at Stake: Your freedom. A criminal conviction can result in significant jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. *

Who Investigates: The FBI, DCIS, and other federal law enforcement agencies.

Who Prosecutes: The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.

*Our Approach: Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys immediately engage with prosecutors, challenge the government’s evidence, and prepare a robust defense for trial. Our goal is to get the charges dismissed or win an acquittal.

Civil Defense (False Claims Act):  What’s at Stake: Your business. A civil judgment under the False Claims Act can result in treble (triple) damages, plus penalties of up to $23,000 per false claim. This can easily bankrupt a company.

Who Investigates: The DOJ Civil Division and federal agency OIGs. 

Many law firms in Los Angeles specialize in either criminal defense or civil litigation. We are one of the few with a dedicated team of former federal prosecutors and government contract law experts who can provide a comprehensive, integrated defense against both criminal and civil exposure.

We Defend All Types of Government Contract Fraud in Southern California

Our Southern California government contracts lawyers have experience defending against a wide range of fraud allegations, including:

• Procurement Fraud & Bid-Rigging: Collusion, kickbacks, and other schemes to improperly influence the contract award process.
• Construction Fraud: Falsifying progress reports, using substandard materials, and mischarging costs on federal construction projects.
• Small Business & SBA Program Fraud: Misrepresenting eligibility for 8(a), SDVOSB, or other small business programs.
• Research & Development (R&D) Grant Fraud: Misusing SBIR/STTR grant funds or falsifying research data.
• Cross-Charging & Cost Mischarging: Improperly shifting costs between government and commercial contracts.
• Buy American Act (BAA) & Trade Agreements Act (TAA) Violations: Falsely certifying the country of origin for products.
• Defective Pricing & TINA Violations: Providing inaccurate or incomplete cost and pricing data.

Focused Defense in the Central & Eastern Districts of California

The federal prosecutors in the Central District of California (Los Angeles) and the Eastern District of California (Riverside, Sacramento) are among the most aggressive in the country when it comes to pursuing government contract fraud. Our firm has a deep understanding of the local rules, procedures, and personnel in these districts.

• Central District of California: As the largest federal district in the nation, the Central District is a major hub for complex white-collar crime prosecutions. Our presence in Los Angeles and our experience in this court are significant advantages for our clients.
• Eastern District of California: With a growing focus on fraud in the Inland Empire and Central Valley, the Eastern District is an increasingly active venue for government contract fraud cases. Our government contract fraud attorneys have the experience to defend clients in this district as well.

Understanding the Federal Agencies Investigating Government Contract Fraud in Los Angeles

When you are under investigation for government contract fraud in Los Angeles, it’s important to understand which federal agencies are involved and what their roles are.

Department of Justice (DOJ)

The DOJ is the primary agency responsible for prosecuting government contract fraud. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California handles criminal prosecutions, while the DOJ Civil Division handles False Claims Act cases.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The FBI is the primary law enforcement agency that investigates criminal government contract fraud. If you are facing a criminal investigation, the FBI is likely the agency conducting the investigation.

Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS)

DCIS is the criminal investigative arm of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General. They investigate fraud related to DOD contracts and programs.

Office of Inspector General (OIG)

Each federal agency has its own OIG, which is responsible for investigating fraud, waste, and abuse within that agency. If you have a contract with NASA, GSA, or another federal agency, you may be investigated by that agency’s OIG.

Small Business Administration (SBA) OIG

The SBA OIG investigates fraud in small business programs, including the 8(a) program, SDVOSB program, and HUBZone program.

The False Claims Act and Qui Tam Lawsuits in Los Angeles

The False Claims Act (FCA) is one of the government’s most powerful tools for combating fraud. Under the FCA, the government can recover treble (triple) damages, plus penalties of up to $23,000 per false claim. The FCA also allows private individuals (whistleblowers) to file lawsuits on behalf of the government in what are known as qui tam lawsuits.

How Qui Tam Lawsuits Work

A qui tam lawsuit is filed by a whistleblower (called a “relator”) who has knowledge of fraud against the government. The lawsuit is filed under seal, meaning it is kept confidential while the government investigates the allegations. The government then decides whether to intervene (take over the case) or allow the whistleblower to proceed on their own.

If the government recovers money as a result of the lawsuit, the whistleblower is entitled to a percentage of the recovery (typically 15-30%).

Top Government Contractor Fraud Attorneys Defending Against Qui Tam Lawsuits in Los Angeles

If you have been served with a qui tam lawsuit in the Central District of California, you need to act quickly. Our Los Angeles False Claims Act defense lawyers and government contractor fraud Qui Tam Defense attorneys can:

• Investigate the whistleblower’s allegations and gather evidence to refute them.
• Negotiate with the DOJ to prevent government intervention.
• Challenge the legal sufficiency of the complaint and seek dismissal.
• Prepare for trial if necessary.

We have a proven track record of getting qui tam lawsuits dismissed and protecting our clients from the devastating financial consequences of an FCA judgment.

Small Business Set-Aside Fraud Defense Lawyers in Los Angeles

The federal government sets aside billions of dollars in contracts each year for small businesses, including businesses owned by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. However, these programs are also a major focus of fraud enforcement.

Common Small Business Fraud Allegations

• Affiliation: The government alleges that your company is affiliated with another company, making you ineligible for small business status.
• Size Standards: The government alleges that your company exceeds the size standards for the NAICS code of the contract.
• Ownership & Control: The government alleges that your company is not actually owned and controlled by the qualifying individual (e.g., a woman, veteran, or disadvantaged individual).
• Pass-Through: The government alleges that your company is a “pass-through” that is not performing the required percentage of work on the contract.

Defending Against Small Business Fraud Allegations

Our Southern California government contracts lawyers have extensive experience defending small businesses against fraud allegations. We understand the complex regulations governing small business programs and can help you navigate SBA size protests, OIG investigations, and False Claims Act lawsuits.

Construction Fraud Defense for Los Angeles Contractors

Los Angeles is home to numerous federal construction projects, from GSA buildings to military base infrastructure. Construction contractors on these projects face intense scrutiny and are frequently targeted for fraud investigations.

Common Construction Fraud Allegations

• Bid-Rigging: Collusion with other contractors to manipulate the bidding process.
• False Certifications: Falsely certifying compliance with Buy American Act, Davis-Bacon Act, or other requirements.
• Substandard Materials: Using materials that do not meet contract specifications.
• Cost Mischarging: Inflating costs or billing for work not performed.
• Change Order Fraud: Submitting fraudulent change orders to increase the contract price.

Our Approach to Construction Fraud Defense

Our Los Angeles construction fraud lawyers understand the unique challenges of defending construction contractors. Our LA government contract fraud attorneys work with forensic accountants, engineers, and other experts to challenge the government’s allegations and protect your business.

Los Angeles, California Aerospace & Defense Industry Focus

Los Angeles is the heart of the nation’s aerospace and defense industry. From the major prime contractors like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman to the thousands of subcontractors and suppliers, the region is a critical part of the defense industrial base. However, this also makes it a major target for federal fraud enforcement.

Unique Challenges for Aerospace Contractors

Aerospace and defense contractors face unique challenges when it comes to government contract compliance:

• Complex Cost Accounting: Aerospace contracts often involve complex cost accounting systems and require compliance with the Cost Accounting Standards (CAS).
• Classified Contracts: Some aerospace contractors work on classified programs, which adds an additional layer of complexity to any investigation.
• Supply Chain Compliance: Aerospace contractors must ensure that their entire supply chain complies with Buy American Act, Trade Agreements Act, and other domestic sourcing requirements.

Our Experience with Aerospace Contractors

Our Los Angeles aerospace defense attorneys have represented some of the largest aerospace and defense contractors in the country. As LA government contract fraud attorneys, we understand the technical and regulatory complexities of this industry and can provide the sophisticated defense you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if FBI agents show up at my business?

Do not speak to them without an attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at 1-866-601-5518.

What is the difference between a criminal and a civil investigation?

A criminal investigation can result in jail time and fines. A civil investigation under the False Claims Act can result in treble damages and penalties that can bankrupt your company. You may face both simultaneously.

How long does a government contract fraud investigation take?

Investigations can take months or even years. The government will not tell you how long the investigation will last, which is why it’s critical to have a top government contract fraud attorney who can engage with prosecutors and potentially resolve the matter before charges are filed.

Can I negotiate with the government to avoid charges?

Yes. Our Los Angeles government contract fraud attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with federal prosecutors to avoid criminal charges or reduce civil penalties. Early intervention is key.

What are the penalties for government contract fraud?

Criminal penalties can include significant prison time and fines. Civil penalties under the False Claims Act can include treble damages plus penalties of up to $23,000 per false claim.

Watson & Associates – Defending Los Angeles & Southern California Government Contractors Since [Year]

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Free Initial Consultation with Our Los Angeles Government Contract Fraud Defense Lawyers

If you are facing a federal investigation in Los Angeles or anywhere in Southern California, do not wait to seek legal help. The government is building its case against you, and every day that passes is a lost opportunity to build your defense. Contact us now for a free, confidential consultation with our experienced Southern California government contract fraud attorneys. Call Us 24/7 at 1-866-601-5518 or Contact Us Online