Maryland Healthcare Fraud Lawyers & Medicare Fraud Defense Attorneys
Maryland Healthcare Fraud Lawyers – Federal Defense Attorneys for Civil Fraud and Criminal Fraud Cases – Are You Under investigation for healthcare fraud in Maryland ? We Help Our Client Reduce The Chances of Long Jail Sentences and Expensive False Claims Fines
Being the target of a healthcare fraud investigation is not just stressful—it’s potentially career-ending.
Whether you’re a physician, a medical billing executive, or the owner of a home health company in Maryland, a federal agency accusing you of fraud puts your practice, finances, and freedom at risk.
If you’ve received a subpoena, civil investigative demand (CID), or target letter, or if agents from the DOJ, HHS-OIG, or FBI have visited your facility, you must act quickly. You need a seasoned Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyer who understands how these investigations unfold and how to aggressively fight back.
What Is Healthcare Fraud?
Federal Healthcare fraud involves deliberately misleading a healthcare benefit program to obtain money or services under false pretenses. This could mean submitting false claims, misrepresenting services, or manipulating billing codes—actions that can trigger serious federal investigations.
One of the most critical elements in any healthcare fraud case is intent. The government must typically show that the accused knowingly and willfully engaged in deception. However, in many cases, what the government sees as fraud may actually stem from complex billing systems, clerical errors, or misunderstanding of coding protocols.
Just because a billing mistake occurred does not automatically mean fraud took place. Errors happen, and navigating insurance and federal healthcare regulations is anything but simple. Prosecutors, however, may still bring charges, often leaning heavily on those very errors to build their case.
If you or your organization is under federal investigation, it’s essential to work with defense attorneys who understand both the technical and legal nuances of the healthcare system.
A strong legal strategy can make the difference between clarifying an honest mistake—and defending your career, business, or license in federal court.
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) have increased their efforts to investigate and charge Maryland healthcare professionals who have allegedly violated healthcare laws.
- Why is it that So Many Companies are Settling Cases?
If you’ve received a subpoena, target letter, or other notice from federal authorities, it’s crucial to consult a Maryland healthcare enforcement action lawyer who understands how to navigate the system.
As a healthcare professional, you’ve spent years building your career. Now, that future may seem uncertain.
Accusations of healthcare fraud in Maryland don’t just threaten your business—they put your license, your freedom, and your livelihood on the line. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our team of experienced anti-kickback violation defense attorneys and Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers helps providers and businesses navigate the complexities of federal investigations.
Are You Under Investigation for Healthcare Fraud In Maryland ? We’re Here to Help.
Imagine running your health care practice smoothly, only to be blindsided by a federal investigation. Suddenly, you’re under scrutiny for healthcare fraud, with government agencies combing through your records and demanding explanations.
Emergency consultation available 24/7 at (866) 601-5518 – Don’t face federal prosecutors alone our Maryland federal white collar criminal defense attorneys are here to help.
Nationwide Federal False Claims Act Fraud Defense Team
Firm’s Lead Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers & Fraud Attorney Maryland
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 defense attorneys and qui tam defense lawyers and federal 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 Maryland.
Robert “Bob” Ayers – Of Counsel (Primary Fraud Attorney Maryland)
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 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 legal experience to Watson & Associates, to support the firm’s federal white collar criminal 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 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.
James M. Allen Counsel (Defense Attorney)
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 (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.
What is the Government’s Burden of Proof in a Maryland Federal Criminal Healthcare Fraud Case?
Our federal Maryland healthcare fraud defense attorneys have defended clients in DOJ, HHS, and OIG cases. False Claims Act Healthcare fraud under 18 USC 1347 typically involves a scheme to defraud the federal healthcare program.
The government’s case may tend to argue false or fraudulent representations in exchange for money – health insurance fraud through payment of invoices or something of value.
The prosecutor has to prove every element of the case”beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is a very high legal standard. The key to defending a False Claims Act healthcare fraud case is to show a lack of intent.
This is usually the government’s biggest hurdle in a criminal case and something that the federal Anti-Kickback statute and medical billing fraud law firm, and a criminal healthcare fraud enforcement action defense lawyer at Watson & Associates, LLC law firm can help.
- bribery,
- kickbacks,
- gratuities, and
- conflicts of interest
- Ghost Patients
- Inflating Cost Reports
- Billing for Services Not Rendered
18 USC 1347.makes it a federal crime to defraud any health care benefit program or obtain, by fraudulent means, any money or benefit from a health care program.
If you are thinking about hiring a Maryland health care fraud attorney, Watson & Associates, LLC only Takes On Cases That Our False Claims Act Fraud Attorneys Believe that They Can Help.
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IF YOU ARE INVESTIGATED OR INDICTED
Call 1.866.601.6618 if you are seeking to retain a Maryland medical fraud lawyer and speak to Mr. Watson .
Maryland Anti-kickback Law Lawyer
All companies should implement a corporate compliance program; Quality control for overpayments and reporting, which includes internal reviews and investigations. When the government indicates that you are under investigation, please contact our Maryland anti-kickback law lawyer.
How Our National Federal Healthcare Fraud Defense Lawyers Can Fight Back in Healthcare Fraud Cases
Defending Your Case Can Be Simpler Than Many May Think. First Question is – Did You Knowingly Intend to Defraud the Government Under 18 USC 1347? If not, then you could have a strong legal defense.
The government will normally Use the Supreme Court Case of Universal Health Servs.. lnc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar,579 U.S. 176, 180 (2016) to support its allegations that you violated the False Claims Act. Litigation against the federal government in both criminal and civil False Claims Act cases can be very expensive and difficult. The government uses Universal Health Servs.. lnc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar to leverage its allegations that under 3 l U.S.C. § 3729, it has met the FCA’s scienter (knowledge) requirement to argue that by merely submitting or signing a document, you automatically show a “reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.
What the US Supreme Court Said and How We Fight Back
Defending Healthcare Fraud Cases Under the False Claims Act – Help for Doctors, Pharmacies, and Healthcare Providers in Maryland
Federal prosecutors often lean heavily on the 2016 Supreme Court ruling in Universal Health Servs., Inc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar, 579 U.S. 176, which allowed them to pursue False Claims Act (FCA) cases by showing a provider acted with “reckless disregard” for the truth.
This approach has become a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to secure convictions, extract large settlements, and even push for jail time in healthcare fraud defense cases involving doctors, pharmacies, and healthcare entities.
But in a critical and more recent decision—United States ex rel. Schutte et al. v. SuperValu Inc. et al.—the U.S. Supreme Court clarified and narrowed the standard. The Court emphasized that FCA liability must be judged by a subjective standard: what the defendant actually believed or knew at the time of the alleged false claim, not what a reasonable person should have known. This ruling marks a major shift, favoring defendants when credible evidence can be presented to show there was no intent to defraud.
At Watson & Associates, our Maryland healthcare fraud attorneys leverage the Schutte decision to dismantle the government’s narrative in both civil and criminal FCA cases. By showing our client’s honest interpretation of regulatory requirements—or a genuine misunderstanding of complex billing codes—we can undermine the “knowing” element the government must prove.
This is especially powerful in criminal prosecutions, where the defense only needs to raise reasonable doubt, and in civil cases, where the burden of proof still rests squarely with the government.
While no case outcome can be guaranteed, our approach is strategic, aggressive, and grounded in the latest legal precedent. We build strong, evidence-backed defenses to protect your professional license, your financial future, and your freedom.
If you or your healthcare organization is facing FCA allegations or a government investigation, contact a trusted Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyer at Watson & Associates today.
At Watson & Associates, LLC our Federal False Claims Act defense attorneys understand that the prosecution MUST prove that you knowingly intended to commit fraud, and that the scienter element of the federal False Claims Act is one of the most difficult for the government’s prosecutor to prove.
We aggressively represent you and focus on deconstructing the government’s case against you. With years of experience, our Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyer and litigation attorney know how to weaken the prosecution’s strategy.
Call our office immediately to secure aggressive legal counsel and retain a healthcare compliance lawyer and 18 USC 1347 defense.
Nationwide help in federal criminal cases: The law states that if you can show you never intended to defraud the government, our Maryland False Claims Act medical billing fraud defense attorneys can reduce the chances of being indicted or convicted by a jury at a criminal trial. As federal healthcare fraud defense attorneys, We Focus on Getting Your Case or Investigation Dismissed.
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer TodayMaryland Medicare Part C Fraud Lawyer: Whether you’re being investigated or have already been indicted, the pressure is intense. This is where Watson & Associates, Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers come in.
The uncertainty is overwhelming. You might wonder how you got here and what steps you should take next.
The threat of steep financial penalties for medical billing fraud, exclusion from Medicare or Medicaid, and even federal criminal charges is real. Getting through this situation without the right legal defense can feel impossible, but you don’t have to face it alone.
As federal healthcare fraud attorneys, we understand the complexity of these types of cases, and we’re prepared to defend your rights and livelihood.
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Nine Individuals Indicted In $28 Million Illegal Opioid Distribution Conspiracy Three Doctors and A Clinic Owner Among Those Indicted(September 20, 2024; U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Michigan)
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Don’t wait until it’s too late. With your career, reputation, and future on the line, having a skilled legal team at your side is critical. Reach out to our law firm today, and let us help you build the most vigorous defense possible.
Facing a Healthcare Fraud Issue? Avoid Critical Mistakes with Our Free Defense Strategy Checklist” DOWNLOAD NOWThe federal government, its enforcement, and investigative teams are aggressively seeking out companies involved in healthcare fraud in Maryland.
However, despite protecting the industry from fraud, the government still has a legal obligation to prove its case. Many Maryland corporations, providers, and individuals find themselves in the government’s crosshairs through allegations of 18 USC 1347 violation. They don’t know what to do or the next steps to take.
Who We Are and What We Do
Maryland government programs fraud lawyer: Watson & Associates, LLC focuses on civil and criminal federal cases involving federal procurement and the healthcare industry in Maryland .
Clients can track the progress of their cases, communicate with us, submit documents, and access additional services.
Watson & Associates LLC is a law firm with a nationwide reach, serving federal clients from coast to coast and overseas.
Maryland Prescription Fraud Lawyers
Prescription drug fraud in Maryland is becoming a statewide focus for both the federal and state governments. This is to fight the war against Americans using prescription drugs, and to end addiction.
Federal Prescription drug fraud charges can often be brought against doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and others who have been trained to provide medical care or treatment to patients. Our Maryland Prescription Fraud Lawyers at Watson & Associates, LLC are here to help.
Watson & Associates, LLC Offers Federal Health Care Fraud Defense Lawyers in Maryland – As National Medicare fraud lawyers, we are Not Afraid to Fight Back on Your Behalf. The Key For You To Prevail is to Act Early and Safeguard Your Legal Defenses Early.
Types of Medical Frauds False Claims Act Health Care Fraud Defense Cases In Maryland Under 18 USC 1347 Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle
Our Federal Maryland Healthcare Fraud defense lawyers and Criminal Defense Attorneys Health care Fraud Law Firm Represents Clients in a Variety of Fraud Cases. Suspected health insurance fraud and abuse in healthcare include, but are not limited to:
- Medical Billing for unnecessary medical services
- Billing for services not provided
- False Claims Act health care billing more than one contract for the same work under 18 USC 1347
- Upcoding claims – submitting claims that are higher than the level of service provided for higher reimbursement
- Unlicensed medical services and medical insurance fraud
- Medical fraud and false certifications
- Medical billing fraud defense or expenses not incurred as part of the contract
- Falsifying data
- Bribery, kickbacks, gratuities, and conflicts of interest
- Duplicate claims of fraud in the healthcare industry
- Misrepresenting diagnosis or procedure to capitalize on maximum profits
- Unbundling procedures – serrating costs for procedures normally billed as one kind of treatment
- Altering medical records or reports
- Falsifying information on contract proposals
- False Claims Act whistleblower defense
- Medical frauds using Federal funds to purchase items that are not for Government use
- Healthcare overpayment defense lawyers
- Maryland Health care fraud whistleblower defense lawyers
- Influencing government employees to award a grant or contract to a particular company, family member, or friend.
- Receiving kickbacks for any goods or medical services under the Anti kickback Statute
- Medical insurance fraud and Substituting approved materials with unauthorized products
- Misrepresenting a project’s status to continue receiving Government funds
- Medicare fraud defense strategies
- Maryland Qui Tam defense
- Charging higher rates than those stated or negotiated for in the bid or contract;
- Federal Conspiracy defense See 18 U.S.C. 1349)
Common Maryland Healthcare Fraud Charges Under Federal Law
Several federal statutes govern healthcare fraud and are frequently used in criminal and civil cases including:
The federal False Claims Act (31 USC 3729–3733): This law allows the federal government to pursue you or your company if you knowingly submit false or fraudulent claims to government healthcare programs.
Civil and Criminal False Claims Act Penalties can include treble damages and civil fines exceeding $25,000 per claim.*
Anti-Kickback Statute (42 USC 320a-7b). This federal criminal statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving anything of value to induce or reward referrals or generate federal healthcare program business. Criminal convictions in Maryland can result in felony charges, exclusion from federal programs, and up to 10 years in prison.
Stark Law (42 U.S.C. § 1395nn). This is a strict liability statute that prohibits physicians from referring patients for certain designated services payable by Medicare or Medicaid if the physician has a financial relationship with the entity. Penalties include fines and exclusion.
Healthcare Fraud (18 USC 1347) A criminal statute that makes it illegal to knowingly execute a scheme to defraud any federal healthcare benefit program. It carries up to 10 years in prison, or 20 years if it results in serious bodily injury.
Conspiracy (18 USC 371). Frequently added to fraud indictments, conspiracy charges involve two or more persons working together to commit healthcare fraud. Our Maryland conspiracy lawyers can help you.
Federal Wire Fraud (18 USC1343). Use of email, telephone, or internet to commit fraud can trigger additional felony charges.A single healthcare fraud investigation can implicate multiple statutes, significantly raising the stakes for a defendant. Contact our Maryland wire fraud defense lawyers for immediate help.
Are You Facing HealthCare Fraud Charges? Learn How to Protect Yourself Here
Maryland overbilling fraud lawyer for immediate help: If you’re under investigation or indictment for health care fraud, you need an experienced team of Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers who understand the complexity of your case and can act quickly to protect your rights.
When you are staring down the barrel of Medicare fraud, False Claims Act violations and Anti-Kickback Statute charges, the key to prevailing is to immediately deal with the issue and start compiling a team for your legal defense.
We offer rapid legal intervention to prevent escalations and minimize penalties, from avoiding exclusion from federal Medicare programs to keeping your medical license intact.
Our personalized defense strategies are tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring you receive the focused attention your case deserves.
When facing the possibility of steep fines or even jail time, don’t wait. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation at 1.866.601.5518 and let us help protect your career, reputation, and freedom.
Our approach is very simple in federal Maryland healthcare fraud cases. Every client deserves honesty and professional legal service.
We believe that every client should know what he or she potentially faces and the outcome of their criminal defense case – before hiring a criminal defense attorney.
Our Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers have experience handling criminal defense cases nationwide. We bring an attorney onboard specifically from your area.
We don’t just represent clients that have the resources but we only take clients that we believe we can help. This means the possibility of getting charges dropped or better negotiated.
We are selective about the number of healthcare defense clients we work with and only work with clients with whom we can truly help. This differs from other law firms, who take on every client – irrespective of the outcome.
Essential Things You Should Know
What is Health Care Fraud Under 18 USC 1347?
Federal Healthcare fraud under 18 USC 1347 typically involves a scheme to defraud the federal healthcare program. The government’s case may tend to argue false or fraudulent representations in exchange for money – health insurance fraud through payment of invoices or something of value. The key to defending a health care fraud case is to show a lack of intent.
This is usually the government’s biggest hurdle in a criminal case and something that the federal Anti-Kickback statute lawyers and Maryland healthcare fraud defense attorneys and Maryland prescription fraud lawyers at our firm can help.
- bribery,
- kickbacks,
- gratuities, and
- conflicts of interest
Penalties for 18 USC 1347 Health Care Fraud
A violation of 18 USC 1347 for federal health care fraud is punishable by:
- a maximum of 10 years in federal prison and/or
- the imposition of a fine
However, if your violation results in serious bodily injury to any individual, the maximum confinement time is increased to 20 years.
If the violation results in death, the maximum punishment increases in federal prison.
18 USC Section 1349 provides that a conspiracy to commit health care fraud may be punished in the same fashion as the fraud itself, so the maximum punishments would be:
- 10 years, 20 years, or life in federal prison, depending on if the enhancements for injury or death are applicable
Tip: The knowledge that the fraudulent conduct is illegal, much less knowledge of the specific provision of federal law that prohibits health care fraud, is not required for a conviction under these sections.
If the defendant knows that the statements or representations they made to obtain money or services through a federal healthcare benefit program are fraudulent, that is enough to convict regardless of whether the defendant understood that their conduct was illegal.
How Do You Defend Against a Federal Health Care Fraud Case in Maryland?
How to fight federal health care fraud over billing fraud allegations in Maryland this is what we do: How can we defend against false claims and health care fraud?
To successfully prevail or win a medical fraud case in Maryland , you first have to consider the best legal defenses. There are several potential legal defenses to federal health care fraud charges, including :
- Lack of Intent or Mistake
- Insufficient Evidence
- Compliance Program
- Consent
Avoid Costly Legal Mistakes During Health Care Fraud Investigations & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Healthcare fraud investigations get started in some very disturbing but legal ways. For example, expect that in large medical fraud cases, the government will storm in and seize your computers, laptops, desktops, and mobile devices (all hopefully through a valid search warrant).
Federal Cases involving healthcare fraud in Maryland have significant paper trails. The government then copies all of the information and then goes through your files to look for information to prove their case.
Tip: Never think that if you speak the truth, everything will be fine (this does not mean to tell lies). Health care fraud agents are not your friends and want to get you to confess to something you may or may not have done.
Maryland federal healthcare investigators may try to twist your words because oftentimes, the interviews are not recorded. Maintaining your silence is the preferred response.
Tip: Similarly, another mistake you want to avoid is convincing yourself that because you have nothing to hide, you should disclose information.
This can become the kiss of death. The best thing people can do is to be quiet and call a defense attorney.
Call Our Criminal Medicare Fraud Defense Attorneys and Maryland Healthcare Fraud Defense Lawyers Immediately at 1.866.601.5518 OR book a call at the link below.
Top Maryland anti-kickback law lawyer: Watson & Associates, LLC Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers represent clients in Annapolis, Columbia, Silver Spring, Frederick, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bethesda, Towson, and all surrounding Maryland communities. Maryland Cares Act fraud lawyers represent clients in federal courts across Maryland, including the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland in Baltimore and Greenbelt, where white collar crime cases are prosecuted by experienced federal prosecutors, and surrounding metro areas.
Practice Lead
Call our Maryland health care qui tam defense attorneys and federal health care fraud defense lawyers today for a Free Initial Consultation at 1.866.601.5518.
Speak to Theodore Watson US Supreme Court Licensed Attorney. Top Maryland False Claims Act healthcare lawyer for small businesses and large corporations nationwide.
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
Multiple Offices
We can handle federal cases in almost every state.
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GETTING YOUR INVESTIGATION AND OR / CASE UNDER CONTROL IS CRITICAL – THE LONGER YOU WAIT TO ACT, THE LESS NEGOTIATION POWER YOU HAVE AND THE MORE LEVERAGE FEDERAL PROSECUTORS HAVE
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
If you are at the investigation stage, you cannot afford to wait to see how the “case plays out.” By then, the prosecution had already been targeting you for quite some time. You are now faced with playing catch-up to protect your rights. Hiring Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers who are affordable and yet focused can be a challenge. Watson & Associates, LLC is here to help.
Are you wondering how to defend against Federal False Claims Act health care fraud in Maryland? Our UT health care fraud attorneys can help. We consistently develop a nationwide team of medical billing fraud and general medical fraud defense attorneys to help clients avoid criminal liability.
Who Are Our Clients
The Watson & Associates, LLC Law Firm Provides Nationwide Criminal Defense Attorneys and HealthCare Fraud Defense Lawyers for Health Care Providers, Hospitals, Pharmaceutical Companies, Licensed Pharmacists and Pharmacies, Manufacturers in Maryland and More.
If you are being investigated or have received a civil investigative demand or subpoena from DHHS, DOJ, FBI, or some other federal law enforcement agency in Maryland, do not waste time trying to see “how the case goes.” Call Watson’s False Claims Act health care fraud attorneys and Maryland medicare fraud attorneys immediately at 1.866.601.5518.
See the video below to get more critical information and defense tips:
Under the Inspector General Act of 1978, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector General (OIG) is responsible for conducting criminal investigations into fraud, waste, and abuse involving HHS programs, including HHS contracts.
Maryland attorney for medicare fraud: A false claims or health care fraud case in Maryland can start with a simple mistake, unintentional medical billing errors, or some other error. The government must prove intent to defraud.
As your Maryland medical defense attorney, we build a solid defense team of healthcare fraud attorneys to fight back and force the federal government to dismiss or settle the matters.
Have You Been Served With a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) in Maryland?
Federal law enforcement agencies use different approaches to investigate health care fraud or health insurance fraud. Typically, prosecutors will allege False Claims Act Health Care Fraud violations and will issue you a Civil Investigative Demand (CID), or a subpoena in a Maryland criminal case. The CID is used up front to force you to provide a multitude of documents to the government. However, having a Maryland Civil Investigative Demand (CID) lawyer to help sift through the documents or testimony that can incriminate you is essential.
Our federal Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers and medicare fraud attorneys help you minimize your exposure to criminal or civil liability cases involving violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute, the False Claims Act, and Stark Law.
At Watson & Associates, LLC, our Maryland criminal health care fraud attorneys represent and defend companies and individuals nationwide under 18 USC 1347. We aim to dispel any weaknesses in the government’s case, from health care fraud investigations to indictments and trials.
What Are Examples of Federal Health Care Fraud?
Examples of common federal healthcare False Claims Act fraud charges in Maryland may include:
- Falsifying certificates of medical necessity in order to bill services
- Upcoding and unbundling
- Falsifying plans of treatment or medical records to justify payments
- Prescribing medically unnecessary compounded pain and scar creams and other expensive medications
- Misrepresenting diagnoses or procedures to maximize payments
- Soliciting “kickbacks” for the provision of various services or goods
- Falsifying claims
- Medical billing fraud
- Unlawful prescribing and dispensing of prescription drug orders
What are The Most Common Federal Healthcare Fraud Charges?
As part of the healthcare industry, you can be exposed to civil and criminal statutes governing business. See some of the common ones below. You can be demanded to respond to either a False Claims Act or a civil investigation demand for healthcare fraud.
Criminal Federal Health Care Fraud Lawyers and Medical Fraud Criminal Defense Attorney
(18 USC 1347) – To prove criminal health care fraud, federal prosecutors must show that you knowingly and purposefully 1) executed a scheme to defraud a healthcare benefit program or 2) used false statements to obtain funds held by federal healthcare programs (Medicare, Medicaid).
Anti-Kickback Statute
(42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) – To prove criminal anti-kickback charges, the government must provide evidence that you knowingly and purposefully 1) offered or received anything of value and 2) it induced or rewarded referral of Medicare or Medicaid business.
False Claims Act – (18 U.S.C. § 287) –
False Claims Act – (31 U.S.C. § 3729) .
Stark Law – 42 U.S.C. § 1395nn, 42 CFR Subpart J)
Health Care Fraud Conspiracy – (18 U.S.C. § 1349)
Wire and Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341, 18 U.S.C. § 1343)
Is It Worth Opening Yourself to Jail Time or Paying $1.9 Million to Settle Allegations of Medical Billing Fraud? Our federal healthcare fraud criminal defense lawyers can Help. See this Case.
What are the Penalties for Federal Health Care Fraud?
If you are convicted under the federal False Claims Act for health care fraud in Maryland, you can be sentenced to up to life in prison and fined $250,000. However, the penalties for healthcare fraud can depend on the specific statute charged, the dollar value of the loss to the government, and a number of case-specific factors.
SEE WHERE YOU STAND — Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer Today
Help Responding to Federal Healthcare Fraud False Claims Act Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs) and Subpoenas in Maryland
How to defend against false claims act healthcare fraud: A large portion of Maryland health care fraud cases stems from allegations that medical providers or healthcare businesses (labs, pharmacies, hospitals, and home healthcare agencies) submitted fraudulent medical billing claims. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or DOJ or some other law enforcement agency may serve you with a civil investigative demand (CID) or subpoena (in criminal cases).
As federal healthcare fraud defense attorneys in Maryland we look at documents to see if there are potential opportunities to get the investigation thrown out.
Most healthcare fraud false claims act cases focus on what could be a medical billing error and not the government’s allegations that your healthcare service lacked medical necessity, was outside the accepted standards of care (e.g., excessive testing), was billed too high, or was billed for but not provided.
Our Maryland healthcare fraud defense attorneys will aggressively help respond to civil investigative demands and or Grand jury subpoenas issued by the agency or Department of Justice (DOJ).
Maryland Qui Tam Lawyers (Defense Only)
The Federal False Claims Act allows whistleblowers (Relators) to sue companies like yours for allegations of defrauding the government. To file under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers must be represented by an attorney. Watson & Associates, LLC Maryland Qui Tam defense attorneys defend companies in Maryland Qui Tam cases, government contractors and healthcare companies from allegations of False Claims Act violations.
The Watson & Associates’ national law firm forms strategic alliances equipped with the knowledge and expertise necessary to assist you in defending qui tam (Whistleblower) lawsuits. Contact us today if you are a government contractor or healthcare provider seeking criminal defense or False Claims Act charges.
Maryland Medicare Fraud Lawyers
Facing a yMedicare Fraud Investigation in Maryland ? You’re Not Alone—But You Need the Right Help.
If you’re a Maryland healthcare provider—whether a physician, home healthcare worker, pharmacist, or even an accountant working with medical clinics—you know how complex billing and compliance can be.
A single audit request from the government can quickly escalate into accusations of fraud. This is when you need experienced Maryland Medicare Fraud Lawyers who understand both the law and the business side of healthcare.
We don’t just represent you—we stand between you and the government, ready to challenge every assumption and protect your future.
Maryland Medicare Fraud Defense Lawyers Who Understand What’s at Stake
Being accused of Medicare or Medicaid fraud doesn’t just threaten your license—it puts your entire livelihood on the line.
Whether you run a durable medical equipment (DME) business, a medical billing company, or a private clinic, the fallout from federal fraud charges can be devastating.
The earlier you involve a legal team that specializes in healthcare fraud, the stronger your defense can be. Our Maryland Medicare Fraud Lawyers know what’s at stake, and we work to dismantle the case against you before it reaches a courtroom.
When Clients Have the Resources, We Immediately Build a Team of Aggressive Maryland Healthcare Enforcement Action Defense Attorneys
Watson’s Maryland healthcare fraud criminal defense lawyers and legal counsel provide comprehensive white-collar defense, litigation, and investigation services in response to healthcare enforcement actions or indictments.
Our Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers help clients conduct internal investigations when the is a civil investigative demand or subpoena issued in a criminal case.
As healthcare enforcement action defense attorneys, we represent clients nationwide in federal healthcare fraud investigations and prosecution litigation.
The Criminal and Civil Divisions launch these investigative actions at the Department of Justice (DOJ), US Attorneys’ Offices, the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services HHS, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Call our federal health care fraud lawyers for immediate help.
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Another aspect of health care fraud that triggers False Claims Act defense lawyers to aggressively defend civil and criminal cases is the unlawful distribution of Adderall pills.
Federal prosecutors will often claim that you initiated a scheme to distribute Adderall and other stimulants over the Internet and that you prescribed Adderall, fentanyl, and other stimulants to individuals suffering from drug addiction.
18 US Code 287 Medicare Fraud Defense Attorney and Maryland Healthcare Fraud Law Firm
Maryland Healthcare fraud defense lawyers and legal counsel for individuals or companies investigated or charged with Federal False Claims Act violations: Medicare professionals can often face false claims and criminal investigations for healthcare fraud charges for phantom medical billing fraud, and up-coding. Receiving a subpoena and civil investigative demand can create stress and confusion in Medicare fraud defense cases. Our Medicare fraud criminal defense attorneys and healthcare enforcement action defense lawyers and healthcare fraud law firm can help.
Under 18 US Code 287, where many medicare fraud defense cases arise, you cannot make inaccurate or fraudulent claims against the United States or any of its agencies. This includes making false statements to the Medicaid and Medicare programs. You should also be aware of 18 US Code 1001, which makes it unlawful to provide materially false or fraudulent statements or documents concerning any matter within the jurisdiction of the federal government.
WATCH THIS VIDEO IF YOU ARE UNDER INVESTIGATION, INDICTED / CHARGED, OR FACING TRIAL FOR FALSE CLAIMS ACT – GET CRITICAL INFORMATION TO HELP YOU GET YOUR DEFENSE STARTED.
Maryland Medical Billing Fraud Defense Attorney
Some of the more common forms of medical billing fraud occur when there is upcoding, unbundling, and billing for services that were not provided.
There are many other types of health care fraud schemes. At Watson & Associates, LLC our Maryland medical billing fraud defense lawyers and healthcare fraud defense lawyers will work with you or your organization, bring in the experts to analyze, and plan for your legal defense.
If you are subjected to a Qui Tam or Whistleblower case for overbilling fraud, our 18 US Code 287 federal medical fraud lawyers are ready to provide immediate help.
Maryland Pharmaceutical Fraud Lawyers
At Watson & Associates, LLC, our Maryland pharmaceutical fraud lawyers provide aggressive legal defense for companies, healthcare providers, and executives facing federal investigations and criminal charges.
Whether you’re being targeted for off-label marketing, kickback schemes, fraudulent billing, or violations of the False Claims Act, our team understands how to navigate the complex web of pharmaceutical regulations and government enforcement actions.
With decades of combined experience in healthcare fraud defense, our medical fraud lawyers. represent clients during DOJ and OIG investigations, audits, and federal court proceedings. If you’re under scrutiny or have been charged with pharmaceutical fraud, contact our law firm today to protect your rights and business.
Speak with Lead Maryland health care fraud lawyer Theodore P. Watson today for immediate help. Call 1.866.601.5518.
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Contact Our Federal False Claims Act and Maryland HealthCare Fraud Defense Lawyers for Immediate Help
Maryland healthcare fraud lawyer free consultation: Watson & Associates’ 18 USC 1347 False Claims Act Maryland healthcare fraud defense lawyers: For a confidential, no-cost initial consultation with one of our Maryland federal healthcare fraud criminal defense lawyers, contact the best Maryland federal criminal defense lawyers and medicare fraud, health care medical billing fraud defense lawyers at Watson & Associates. Call 1-866-601-5518. Your defense, from coast to coast. Speak to Theodore Watson