New Mexico False Claims Act Lawyers – Civil & Criminal Defense
New Mexico False Claims Act Defense For Health Care Clients, Defense Contractors, Corporations and CEOs Charged With Violations of the Federal False Claims Act
A federal False Claims Act investigation can be a life-altering experience for government contractors and healthcare providers in New Mexico. Facing accusations of fraud against the federal government could lead to severe penalties that threaten your career, your business, and your freedom.
The reality is that you did not intend to defraud the federal government. However, you have been served with a civil investigative demand (CID), or a subpoena requesting tons of documents or testimony.
The Federal False Claims Act (FCA) is one of the most powerful tools the U.S. government uses to investigate and prosecute fraud against federal programs. Businesses and individuals in New Mexico—especially federal contractors, healthcare providers, and financial institutions—face intense scrutiny under the FCA. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our experienced False Claims Act defense attorneys and New Mexico government programs fraud lawyers help clients in New Mexico navigate government investigations, defend against qui tam (whistleblower) lawsuits, and avoid severe penalties. If you or your business is being investigated for an alleged FCA violation, immediate legal representation is critical.
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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. 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.
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 defense lawyer for federal FCA allegations: 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.
Potential False Claims Act Penalties
The consequences of a False Claims Act violation 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.
Whistleblower Provisions and Qui Tam Lawsuits
Many False Claims Act cases in New Mexico originate from whistleblower (qui tam) lawsuits, where private individuals file FCA claims on behalf of the government. Whistleblowers—often former employees, competitors, or insiders—can receive between 15% and 30% of the total recovered amount.
However, not all whistleblower claims are legitimate. Some are motivated by financial gain or misunderstandings of complex federal regulations. If your business is involved in a qui tam lawsuit, our False Claims Act defense attorneys can fight back, expose weaknesses in the whistleblower’s case, and protect your financial interests.
Have You Been Targeted for a Crime?
What do you do? Have you been notified that you have been indicted by a grand jury? What do you do next? These are all real concerns and very nerve-racking ones. This is where our New Mexico False Claims Act defense lawyers come in. We immediately take over and guide you down the path to get the best results available.
What Separates Us?
We simply do not represent clients because they have the resources to fight back (although this is important.) Instead, we meticulously get to the bottom line and we would only go to the next step if we believe that we can truly help our clients.
It can be to get a case dismissed, reach a fair settlement ( when the government has overwhelming evidence against you) or some result that you are comfortable with.
FEDERAL PROCUREMENT | CIVIL INVESTIGATIVE DEMANDS | HEALTHCARE FRAUD | PPP LOAN DEFENSE | BUY AMERICAN ACT | TRADE AGREEMENTS ACT | SUBPOENAS | FEDERAL QUI TAM DEFENSE | INDICTMENTS | FEDERAL CRIMINAL TRIALS | WHITE COLLAR DEFENSE
Facing a Federal False Claims Act Investigation in New Mexico or Facing Criminal Charges? Here’s What You Need to Know
Top Federal False Claims Act defense attorney New Mexico: When you are accused of defrauding the federal government through false claims, it’s essential to act quickly and strategically. One of your top concerns is likely to be how this will impact your reputation and financial stability. Our New Mexico False Claims Act defense Lawyers and criminal defense attorneys help clients navigate the complex legal landscape of federal criminal investigations, working to protect their livelihoods and secure favorable outcomes.
Time is of the Essence
In these situations, time is of the essence. Federal agencies like the DOJ or OIG may already be building a case against you, which is why you need to know what actions to take—and avoid—immediately. The first mistake many clients make is speaking with federal investigators without the presence of their attorney.
This can lead to unintended self-incrimination or misunderstandings. Our New Mexico False Claims Act Defense Attorneys and criminal defense lawyers advise you not to engage in any communications with investigators until you have sought legal counsel.
Remember, anything you say can be used against you, so your first step should be to consult with experienced legal professionals who can guide your response.
Uncertainty
One of the most significant pain points for those facing a False Claims Act investigation is the overwhelming uncertainty. You might wonder, “Will I lose my business? Will I face jail time?” These are critical concerns, but rest assured that not every investigation leads to criminal charges or extreme penalties.
Our team of New Mexico False Claims Act Defense Attorneys is adept at building robust defenses, from questioning the intent behind the alleged false claims to challenging the government’s evidence.
We provide comprehensive representation for all types of Federal Fraud cases, including healthcare fraud and Medicaid fraud, procurement fraud, and allegations related to the Trade Agreements Act or Buy American Act.
Help With Various Federal Criminal Defense Cases in New Mexico
If you’ve received a civil investigative demand or subpoena, the next steps you take could make or break your case. Our team handles a range of federal defense cases involving healthcare fraud & kickback defense, money laundering, bribery & public corruption, and more. We represent healthcare professionals, federal contractors, and corporations across New Mexico .
Don’t wait until your case escalates—call our experienced New Mexico False Claims Act Lawyers for a free consultation today and take immediate steps to protect your future. With an understanding of the intricacies of New Mexico False Claims Act defense, we can help you fight back against the government’s allegations and minimize your risks.
Watch the below videos to get general information about the False Claims Act
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 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.
Why Choose Watson & Associates, LLC As Your New Mexico False Claims Act 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.
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 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.
Defending Against a Federal False Claims Act Charge in New Mexico? What You Need to Know
The Federal False Claims Act is applicable to any business, organization, individual, or business with a prime or indirect contract with and that will receive payment by the federal government for equipment or services.
Any person, business, prime or subcontractor contractor, or organization that knowingly submits or causes the submission of a false claim for approval and payment by the federal government may be subject to civil or criminal penalties.
There is no legal requirement of actual knowledge under the Federal False Claims Act. You do not actually have to be aware of the fraudulent claims to be legally liable.
You cannot claim that simply because you had. no knowledge that you violated the law. FCA law looks at whether you should have known.
FCA Cases Can Be Filed By a Whistleblower (Relator)
Under the False Claims Act (FCA), 31 USC 3729 – 3733 et seq, private parties to bring Qui Tam lawsuits in the name of the United States of America (federal government)against those who they believe have defrauded the Federal Government, 31 USC 3730(b), and imposes liability on anyone who “knowingly” submits a “false” claim to the Government, 31 USC 3729(a). This person can be an employee, contractor or another allowed party.
How We Can Help You Defend Your New Mexico False Claims Act Case?
How to fight healthcare fraud allegations FCA New Mexico : Two essential elements of a federal FCA violation are (1) the falsity of the claim and (2) the defendant’s knowledge of the claim’s falsity. See U.S. ex rel. Schutte v. SuperValu Inc.
The government prosecutors will have to show that you have the scienter required by the FCA and that you correctly understood that standard and thought that your submitted claims were inaccurate. You must know your claim to be false.
Our job as White Collar Crime False Claims Act defense attorneys in New Mexico is to show that you did not. This is especially true in allegations that you overcharged Medicare and Medicaid programs when seeking reimbursement for prescription drugs.
In False Claims Act cases, courts should look at whether you, the Defendant, knew the claim was false. If you correctly interpreted the relevant phrase and actually believed that your claims were false, then a court could rule against you. Our New Mexico False Claims Act defense lawyers look for evidence in your favor.
General Legal Defense In New Mexico FCA White Collar Crime Federal Cases
- Honest Mistakes, Inadvertence and Mere Negligence Do Not Result in FCA Liability
- Opinions Regarding Conclusions of Law or Factual Adherence to Legal Standards Do Not Result in FCA Scienter
- Objective Ambiguity Without Subjective Knowledge Likely Does Not Result in Reckless Disregard or Deliberate Ignorance
How Do Courts Interpret the FCA When Deciding Your Case at Trial?
Either actual knowledge, deliberate ignorance, or recklessness will suffice for the government to win its case against you. Our FCA defense lawyers help you to develop evidence to the contrary.
The Court starts with the text of the FCA. See Universal Health Services, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar, 579 U. S. 176, 187 (2016). The False Claims Act FCA defines the term “knowingly” as encompassing three mental states: First, that you have “ actual knowledge of the information,” See 31 USC §3729(b)(1)(A)(i). Second, that you “act in deliberate ignorance of the truth or falsity of the information,” 31 USC 3729(b)(1)(A)(ii). And third, that you “act in reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.”
Minimize Your Exposure to Criminal Liability & Jail Time- Start the Process Here
New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyer for Federal FCA Allegations for Government Contracts Fraud 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
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 & False Claims Defense Attorneys
When our New Mexico healthcare fraud defense lawyer represents providers in federal investigations. Our goals once retained is to immediately connect with prosecutors to see the issues presented and to see if you have a chance of making the case go away without spending hundreds of thousands of dollars in criminal defense 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 FCA lawyers work closely with you to assess legal defenses, weak and strong points in your case.
We put together a plan of action and share that with the CEOs and decision-makers. Our New Mexico criminal defense lawyers on our federal healthcare fraud defense lawyers aim to get best possible chance for a favorable outcome.
Buy American Act False Claims Fraud
A federal government contractor can defraud the Government by knowingly providing goods that were procured in violation of the Buy American Act and the U.S. Trade Agreements Act, if the Government would not have purchased the goods from that contractor if it had known of the violations.
Whistleblowers can help fight Buy American Act fraud by filing a qui tam lawsuit under the False Claims Act. Watson & Associates offers experienced NEW Mexico Buy American Act False Claims Act investigation lawyers who understand procurement laws and how the BAA applies to FCA cases. See 41 USCA 10a-d. and FAR Part 25.
U.S. Trade Agreements Act Procurement Fraud
If you have knowledge or evidence of TAA procurement fraud, you may be able to file a qui tam lawsuit under the federal False Claims Act. Our team at Watson & Associates has extensive experience handling whistleblower cases involving TAA violations and can help you navigate through the complex legal process.
- Bribery and Public Corruption in Government Contracts
Government suppliers entering into Multiple Award Schedule GSA contracts to sell products to federal government purchasers under the Federal Supply Schedule must agree to comply with the U.S. Trade Agreements Act of 1979, 19 U.S.C. § 2501, et. seq.
Under the terms of TAA compliance requirements, manufacturers, prime contractors, subcontractors, or vendors who sell foreign-made products to the United States Government are required to only sell such products that are made or “substantially transformed” in countries with reciprocal trade agreements with the United States. When those rules are violated, OIG or DOJ may initiate an FCA case against you. This is where our New Mexico Trade Agreements Act false claims defense lawyers can help.
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 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 our some other basis for the investigation, we can help.
Whistleblower Defense FCA Defense for Federal Healthcare Fraud in New Mexico
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 indicted federally for FCA allegations. Our New Mexico healthcare fraud False Claims Act criminal defense lawyers work with local counsel and will provide an experienced healthcare whistleblower defense attorney to defend your case aggressively.
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.
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.
Our New Mexico False Claims Act lawyers and federal criminal defense attorneys serve clients in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Farmington, Hobbs, Alamogordo, Clovis, Roswell, Carlsbad, Artesia, Silver City, Deming, and Espanola, and surrounding metro areas.
Contact Watson & Associates False Claims Act Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Mexico Today for a Free Consultation
If you are facing federal investigations in New Mexico or have concerns about potential False Claims Act whistleblower liability or are looking for New Mexico False Claims Act healthcare fraud lawyers, do not hesitate to call our experienced government attorneys. We are prepared to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the complexities of FCA criminal defense litigation and protect your business interests.
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Call Watson’s 31 USC 3729 – 3733 Federal New Mexico False Claims Act attorneys at 1.866.601.5518 for a Free Initial Consultation. Speak to Theodore Watson, Lead False Claims Act Whistleblower defense lawyer.