New Mexico False Claims Act Lawyers & Healthcare Fraud Criminal Defense Attorneys
CID or Subpoena? Facing a Federal False Claims Act Investigation in New Mexico?
Our New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers are former federal prosecutors defending government contractors, corporations, and healthcare providers. Our lines are open 24/7.
When you are under federal investigation, every minute counts. Do not speak to federal agents without a New Mexico False Claims Act defense attorney.
New Mexico False Claims Act Lawyers & HealthCare Fraud Criminal Defense Attorneys for Defense Contractors, Doctors, Hospitals, Small Businesses, Corporations and CEOs Charged With Violations of the Federal False Claims Act and Criminal Healthcare Violations (31 USC 3729-3733 and 18 USC Code 287)
As a business operating in New Mexico, you are at the heart of some of the nation’s most critical industries—from advanced research at Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories to vital healthcare services at Presbyterian Healthcare Services and University of New Mexico Hospital. But this also places you under the intense scrutiny of the federal government’s most powerful anti-fraud law: the False Claims Act.
A federal False Claims Act investigation can threaten your business, your career, and your freedom. Your situation may sound familiar:
- The Government Contractor at Sandia: Your company provides critical support to Sandia National Laboratories. A disgruntled former employee has filed a whistleblower lawsuit alleging you mischarged labor costs. Now, you’ve received a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) from the Department of Justice, and you need a New Mexico False Claims Act defense attorney who understands government contracting.
- The Healthcare Provider in Albuquerque: You run a successful medical practice in Albuquerque. The government is now investigating your Medicare billing practices, alleging violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute. You need New Mexico healthcare fraud defense lawyers who can protect your license and prevent criminal charges.
- The Small Business at Kirtland Air Force Base: Your 8(a) certified small business has a contract at Kirtland Air Force Base. A competitor has alleged you are not meeting small business requirements, triggering a qui tam lawsuit and a federal investigation. You need an Albuquerque False Claims Act attorney to defend your business.
If you are facing one of these scenarios, you are not alone. These are the high-stakes situations that bring New Mexico’s top executives to our firm. Our first step is not to sell you on our services, but to help you understand the charges you are facing and the path to resolving them. As leading New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers, we are here to help.
What Representation Achieves: A Pathway to Resolving Your Federal False Claims Act Case
When you are facing a federal False Claims Act investigation in New Mexico, the future can feel uncertain. The primary purpose of engaging experienced New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers is to create a clear pathway toward a successful resolution. Our goal is not simply to react to the government’s moves, but to proactively shape the outcome of your case. Here is what we aim to achieve:
Goal 1: Case Dismissal or No Charges Filed
Our primary objective is to intervene early and aggressively to convince the government to decline prosecution altogether. We do this by conducting our own internal investigation, identifying the weaknesses in the government’s case, and presenting exculpatory evidence to prosecutors. A skilled New Mexico False Claims Act defense attorney can often resolve the matter before charges are ever filed.
Goal 2: A Favorable, Pre-Indictment Resolution
If the government has a strong case, the next best outcome is often a favorable pre-indictment resolution. This could involve a civil settlement instead of criminal charges, a non-fraud-based plea to a lesser offense, or a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) that allows your company to avoid conviction. Our New Mexico qui tam defense lawyers have the credibility with prosecutors to negotiate these outcomes.
Goal 3: Protection of Your Business and Personal Assets
A federal investigation poses an existential threat to your business and personal wealth. We work to protect your ability to continue operating, to prevent the suspension or debarment of your company, and to shield your personal and corporate assets from seizure.
Goal 4: Minimized Penalties and a Path Forward
If a conviction or settlement is unavoidable, our focus shifts to minimizing the penalties. This includes reducing fines, avoiding prison time, and ensuring that you are not permanently barred from your industry. Our role as your New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers is to ensure that a single mistake does not unnecessarily end your career or destroy the business you have built.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Your New Mexico Defense Team: Former Federal Prosecutors & Procurement Officials Who Know the System
Successfully defending a federal False Claims Act case in New Mexico requires a deep understanding of the local federal courts and the prosecutors who run them. Our team of New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers is led by former federal prosecutors who have worked inside the very system that is now targeting you. This insider knowledge is your most powerful defensive weapon.
Carolyn L. Oliver – Lead Counsel (Former DOJ Major Frauds Section Prosecutor)
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney, Major Frauds Section | Over 40 Years of Legal Experience
Carolyn L. Oliver brings unparalleled insider knowledge to our New Mexico False Claims Act defense practice. As a former Assistant United States Attorney in the Major Frauds Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Carolyn prosecuted the very types of complex white collar criminal cases she now defends. Her extensive federal prosecution background, combined with her proven track record in criminal defense, positions her as a formidable advocate for corporations, CEOs, and individuals facing high-stakes federal investigations in New Mexico. She is a top New Mexico False Claims Act defense attorney.
“Having prosecuted major fraud cases for the DOJ, I know exactly how AUSAs build their cases. I know their strategies, their weaknesses, and how to dismantle their evidence. This knowledge is now your advantage.”
Contact Carolyn Oliver for a Confidential Consultation: 1-866-601-5518
Theodore P. Watson – National Practice Leader
U.S. Air Force Retired Veteran | Former Federal Procurement Official | U.S. Supreme Court Licensed Attorney
Theodore P. Watson brings over 20 years of experience in federal procurement and criminal defense. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force, Theodore served as a government contracts procurement official. He understands the complex intersection of federal regulations and criminal law that defines many False Claims Act cases. Theodore has litigated cases up to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and provides strategic oversight for all federal criminal cases nationwide. He is a top New Mexico government contractor fraud defense lawyer.
Call and Speak Directly to Mr. Watson: 1-866-601-5518
Defending Your 31 USC 3729-3733 and 18 USC Code 287 Case Can Be Simpler in New Mexico Than Many May Think
New Mexico federal criminal defense lawyer: The government will normally use the Supreme Court Case of Universal Health Services, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar,579 U.S. 176, 180 (2016) to support its allegations of you violating 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.
At Watson & Associates, LLC our New Mexico Federal False Claims Act lawyers understand that the prosecution MUST prove that you knowingly intended to commit fraud, and that the scienter element of the 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. Call our office immediately to secure aggressive legal representation and defense.
The Federal False Claims Act – What You Need to Know
The federal False Claims Act is designed to prevent fraud against the U.S. government. It applies to federal contractors, grant recipients, and healthcare providers who do business with Medicare, Medicaid, the Department of Defense (DoD), and other government agencies in New Mexico. The FCA prohibits:
- Submitting false or fraudulent claims for federal funds.
- Using false records or statements to obtain government payments.
- Conspiring to defraud the government.
- Avoiding contractual or regulatory obligations under federal agreements.
Federal authorities aggressively pursue FCA violations in New Mexico—especially in industries that receive significant government funding. If you are accused of violating the FCA, our defense attorneys can help mitigate your risks.
New Mexico Excessive Billing Fraud Lawyers -Common Violations in New Mexico
Businesses and professionals in New Mexico are frequently investigated under the federal FCA for alleged fraudulent activities related to government contracts and healthcare services. Some of the most common FCA violations include:
- Federal Contracting Fraud – Overbilling, inflated invoices, bid-rigging, kickbacks, or misrepresenting compliance in federal contracts.
- Medicare & Medicaid Fraud – Upcoding, unbundling, duplicate billing, or falsifying patient records to increase reimbursements.
- Procurement Fraud – Misrepresenting pricing, cost data, or performance in government procurement contracts.
- Grant Fraud – Improper use of federal research funds, falsification of grant data, or misappropriation of funds.
New Mexico excessive billing fraud lawyers: Many federal False Claims Act investigations in New Mexico begin with whistleblower (qui tam) lawsuits. If you or your business has been accused, securing an FCA defense lawyer as early as possible can help prevent an indictment or civil penalties.
We work with local New Mexico licensed attorneys .
Federal False Claims Act Penalties
The consequences of a federal False Claims Act violation in New Mexico are severe, and the federal government has the power to impose substantial penalties. If found liable, you could face:
- Civil fines range from $13,508 to $27,018 per false claim (adjusted for inflation).
- Treble damages (three times the amount of actual damages).
- Exclusion from government contracts and programs (which can destroy a business).
- Criminal penalties if fraud is intentional, including up to 5 years in prison and hefty criminal fines.
With penalties this high, defending against an FCA lawsuit requires an aggressive, strategic legal defense. If you have received a Civil Investigative Demand (CID), subpoena, or government inquiry, contact our FCA defense team immediately.
Department Practice Group Head, Theodore Watson, leading the New Mexico False Claims Act Healthcare Fraud and Government Contracts Practice Group, brings a unique perspective. He understands the various nuances and adeptly handles legal issues in the U.S. government space.
Best federal criminal defense attorneys for federal contractor False Claims Act defense cases – civil and criminal healthcare fraud defense cases in New Mexico under 18 USC 287 and 31 USC 3729 – 3733.
If you are a federal contractor or involved in a federal contract fraud or False Claims Act. Be sure to contact our federal white collar crime lawyers immediately. (1.866.601.5518)
Watson & Associates LLC: Nationwide FCA Investigative Attorneys and New Mexico Qui Tam Whistleblower Defense Lawyers
At Watson & Associates, We Offer Top Federal False Claims Act Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Have Experience in Government Contracting
Understanding the federal False Claims statute is just the beginning. Given the risks of jail time in a criminal case or hefty fines in a civil false claims case, we understand the flaws that can be buried in a government investigation brought by the OIG or DOJ. As New Mexico government investigation attorneys will handle civil investigative demands and assist in responding to CID requests.
Watson & Associates, LLC – Your New Mexico Healthcare Fraud Defense Attorneys?
At Watson & Associates, LLC our law firm has found that local federal False Claims Act defense attorneys may not always be savvy or experienced in the various underlying allegations that trigger False Claims Act in federal procurement cases and healthcare fraud cases.
This is especially true when the false claims allegation is triggered by the Buy American Act (BAA Compliance); Trade Agreements Act (TAA Compliance) or most of all violation of one of the SBA small business programs (SBA 8(a)BD; SDVOSB Fraud; HUBZone Programs).
You will quickly find out that unless legal counsel has some experience in these areas, the government lawyers usually will prevail in a False Claims Act fraud case.
When the federal government prosecutor and investigators come knocking on your door with False Claims Act civil investigative demand (CID) requests, subpoenas, or indictments, the stakes are high; our 31 USC 3729-3733 and 18 USC Code 287 New Mexico False Claims Act attorneys can immediately step in and build an aggressive defense team. We represent clients that include:
- Fortune 500 companies
- Federal government contractors (large and small businesses)
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Medical device manufacturers
- Government construction companies
- Defense contractors for services
- Medical
- Biotechnology firms
- Hospitals
- Clinic owners;
- Physician-owned facilities.
We also assist defendants in qui tam lawsuits; Stark Law violations; Anti-Kickback statute violations; and with Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare New Mexico False Claims Act cases.
Minimize Your Exposure to Criminal Liability & Jail Time- Start the Process Here
False Claims Act Government Contract Fraud Lawyers in New Mexico
31 USC 3729 – 3733 New Mexico federal contractor FCA compliance lawyers: Small businesses and large defense contractors alike face extreme scrutiny when they provide construction or services to the federal government.
When you receive a False Claims Act civil investigative demand from the DOJ or OIG, or some other law enforcement agency, our Federal New Mexico False Claims Act defense lawyers can help.
How to defend against government contracts fraud FCA New Mexico : We work with your key personnel to investigate the case, assess what the government is really after, and analyze the facts surrounding the allegations. We understand procurement laws and have also worked on the government’s side.
We represent various types of procurement clients, including:
- SBA 8(a) small. Businesses
- Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOSB)
- SBA HUBZone Small businesses
- Prime Contractors
- Subcontractors
- Corporate CEOs
- Manufacturers
- Health Care Agencies
- Buy American Act (BAA compliance) fraud
- Trade Agreements Act False Claims defense
- Bid rigging
- False medical invoices and treatment
- FCA investigations
White Collar Crime, Corporate and Individual Legal Defense
- Medicare Fraud & Kickback Defense
- False Claims Act Cases
- Federal Fraud (Mail & Wire Fraud, Mortgage Fraud, Bank Fraud, Tax Fraud etc.)
- Money Laundering
- Bribery & Public Corruption
- Federal Conspiracy
- Wire Fraud
Federal New Mexico HealthCare Fraud Lawyers & New Mexico Stark and Anti Kickback Lawyers
When our New Mexico healthcare fraud lawyers and anti-kickback attorney represent providers in federal investigations. Our goal, once retained, is to immediately connect with prosecutors to assess the issues presented and determine if there is a chance of resolving the case without incurring hundreds of thousands of dollars in criminal defense costs or going to trial.
When it comes to healthcare fraud False Claims Act cases in the New Mexico area, we form a team specifically to help you in your case and then we aggressively. push back. The law firm healthcare fraud defense lawyers work closely with you to assess legal defenses, weak and strong points in your case.
We put together a plan of action and shared it with the CEOs and decision-makers. Our New Mexico criminal defense lawyers and federal healthcare fraud defense lawyers aim to get the best possible chance for a favorable outcome.
What are Civil and Criminal Penalties Under the False Claims Act?
If you are a government contractor, healthcare professional, or corporation in New Mexico or an individual investigated for violating the False Claims Act, you can be subject to both civil and criminal penalties. Sometimes, you may receive a civil investigative demand (CID) from the Office of Inspector General (OIG), or the Department of Justice (DOJ) alleging violations of the False Claims Act.
If you are under investigation and you need reliable legal representation, call the New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers at Watson & Associates, LLC.
You are exposed to the following civil penalties:
- Treble damages (damages that are three times more than the amount that the claim is worth)
- A fine of up to $11,000 per false claim
- State disciplinary proceedings
- Loss of your professional license (health care, construction, or other
- Suspension and debarment
- You could be ordered to pay attorneys’ fees for the federal government
You can also be exposed to criminal False Claims Act penalties which could be:
- Criminal indictment
- Prison time
- A fine of $250,000 per claim for individuals for federal felony convictions
- A fine of $500,000 per claim for businesses for federal felony convictions
- A fine of $100,000 per claim for individuals for a misdemeanor conviction
- A fine of $200,000 per claim for businesses for a misdemeanor conviction
Federal Whistleblower Defense Attorneys or Qui Tam Defense Lawyers in New Mexico
Federal False Claims Act investigations or lawsuits in New Mexico can be initiated by a filing by a whistleblower or Qui Relator. A relator could be a former or current employee, another contractor, or some other interested party. These cases are filed under seal and not released to the public.
At Watson & Associates, LLC, our New Mexico False Claims Act Qui Tam defense lawyers help government contractors, defendants in the healthcare industry, CEO’s, and individuals charged or investigated under the False Claims Act.
Help With False Claims Act Civil Investigative Demands or Subpoenas
Federal law enforcement agencies, such as OIG, DEA, DOJ, DHHS, or IRS, may issue subpoenas or civil investigative demands for your financial, billing, corporate, communication, and other records. Whether you receive a civil investigative demand or a criminal subpoena, our CID lawyers can help.
We Aggressively Defend You in New Mexico False Claims Act Investigations
The New Mexico False Claims Act attorneys at Watson & Associates, LLC will initially make contact with the government to immediately develop the best possible legal defense for FCA investigations in New Mexico and throughout the United States. Whether you are investigated for procurement fraud, healthcare fraud, or some other basis for the investigation, we can help.
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is responsible for implementing the vast array of Stark regulations and statutes. In response, they continue to extend Stark’s reach by implementing regulations that greatly expand the definition of “financial interest.”
New Mexico Stark Law Lawyer
Stark law includes issues of financial interest, which involve just about anything that results in a financial benefit to the referring doctor. Stark law includes ownership, investment, gifts, freebies, financial incentives, reduced rent, reduced fees, structured compensation arrangements and unfair compensation schemes. If you are under investigation, indicted, or charged with kickbacks, call our New Mexico Stark Law lawyer.
New Mexico Anti-kickback Lawyer Defense & FCA Defense for Federal New Mexico Healthcare Fraud Defense Lawyers
False Claims Act defense lawyer and New Mexico anti-kickback law lawyer: Anti kickback defense/ False Claims Act Attorney: Watson & Associates, LLC offers aggressive defense for healthcare providers and manufacturers in New Mexico.
We represent hospitals in a federal investigation for anti-kickback allegations or are indicted federally for 31 USC 3729-3733 and 18 USC Code 287 FCA allegations. Our New Mexico healthcare fraud defense lawyers and New Mexico criminal defense attorneys collaborate with local counsel and provide an experienced healthcare whistleblower defense attorney to aggressively defend your case.
What are Examples of Violations Under the False Claims Act?
Although each case is fact-specific, some of the common violations under the 31 USC 3729 – 3733 False Claims Act include:
- Charging the government for work or products not provided;
- False certification and fraudulently acquiring a government contract;
- Submitting a false government loan application;
- Submitting a fraudulent application for a government grant;
- Demanding payment for goods or services that do not conform to contractual or regulatory requirements;
- Submitting false invoices for goods or services that are defective or of lesser quality than the. government contracted for;
- Submitting a claim that falsely certifies that the defendant has complied with a law, FAR. or contract term, or HealthCare regulation;
- Attempting to pay the government less than is owed.
- Representing that you are a small business when you are deemed other than small
- False certification for HUBZone, SDVOSB and SBA 8(a) BD Program contracts
IF YOU ARE UNDER INVESTIGATION, INDICTED / CHARGED, OR FACING TRIAL FOR FALSE CLAIMS ACT OR PROCUREMENT FRAUD – GET IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR DEFENSE HERE
As criminal and civil New Mexico False Claims Act defense lawyers and qui tam defense attorneys, we’re veterans of the government contracting marketplace.
Our criminal and civil Federal Whistleblower Defense Lawyers understand government contract law (federal) and the issues that can lead to investigations, criminal indictments, and a jury conviction at trial.
As a New Mexico federal criminal defense lawyers, we also provide legal defense in Qui Tam and suspension and debarment cases. We understand the unique ethical complexities and regulations that government contractors face.
New Mexico drug pricing fraud lawyers: Our New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers and federal healthcare fraud criminal defense attorneys serve clients in Albuquerque (Albuquerque healthcare fraud lawyer), Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Farmington, Hobbs, Alamogordo, Clovis, Roswell, Carlsbad, Artesia, Silver City, Deming, and Espanola, and surrounding metro areas.
Emergency False Claims Act Defense for New Mexico Businesses
If you are facing a federal False Claims Act investigation in New Mexico, the time to act is now. Contact us for a confidential, no-cost assessment of your situation. Our former federal prosecutors will help you understand the challenges you are facing and provide you with a clear path forward.
24/7 Emergency Hotline for Government Contractors, CEOs, and Healthcare Providers in New Mexico
Call Watson’s 31 USC 3729-3733 and 18 USC Code 287 Federal New Mexico False Claims Act attorneys and healthcare fraud defense lawyers at 1.866.601.5518 for a Free Initial Consultation. Speak to Theodore Watson, Lead Federal False Claims Act Whistleblower defense lawyer.






