Procurement Fraud, Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud Criminal Defense Lawyers
Top Criminal Defense Representation – Procurement Fraud Defense & Federal Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud Lawyers For Government Contractors and Health Care Industry Client Defendants Charged Under 18 USC 1343, 18 USC 1031, and 31 USC 3729 – 3733.
Wire fraud allegations in Federal Contracting, Health Care and White Collar Crimes are Common Practice. Pushing Back Against the Government’s Case Early is the Key to Any Legal Defense Strategy.
Our Federal Wire Fraud Defense Firm Can Help Clients Across the United States and Overseas Avoid Substantial Civil and Criminal Penalties. We Aggressively Defend Government Contractors and HealthCare Providers in Fraud Cases, Deconstructing the Government’s Case and Showing that It Cannot Meet the Legal Elements It Must Prove.
When you reach our law firm – the process begins with a risk free consultation over the phone. During this consultation – you can ask us anything – regardless of how long it takes. Please be aware that ethically we cannot give legal advise unless we are retained. We encourage you to take this opportunity to ask the tough questions – which allow us to show you our understanding of the issue you’re facing.
False Claims Act Liability Defense
31 USC3729(a) starts by explaining the conduct that creates FCA liability. Generally, 31 USC 3729(a)(1)(A) and (B) set forth FCA liability for any person who (1) knowingly submits a false claim to the government or (2) causes another to submit a false claim to the government or (3) knowingly makes a false record or statement to get a false claim paid by the government – will be liable.
31 USC Section 3729(a)(1)(G), known as the reverse false claims section, makes you liable if you act improperly – not to get money from the government, but to avoid having to pay money to the government. Section 3729(a)(1)(C) creates liability for those who conspire to violate the FCA. Sections 3729(a)(1)(D), (E), and (F) are rarely invoked.
The knowledge requirement
Generally, you do not violate the False Claims Act by submitting a false claim to the government; to violate the FCA you must have submitted, or caused the submission of, the false claim (or made a false statement or record) with knowledge of the falsity. In § 3729(b)(1), knowledge of false information is defined as being (1) actual knowledge, (2) deliberate ignorance of the truth or falsity of the information, or (3) reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the information.
TO REDUCE YOUR CHANCES OF RECEIVING JAIL TIME, DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FRAUD DEFENSE CHECKLIST HERE
HealthCare Fraud Liability Defense
Federal health care fraud charges are covered under 18 USC 1347. You can be found liable:
- when an individual knowingly and willfully executes or
- attempts to execute a scheme defrauding any health care benefit program by
- false pretenses or representations, or
- promises to obtain money or property controlled by any health care benefit program
In simple terms, Title 18 USC 1347 makes it a federal crime to defraud any health care benefit program or obtain, by fraudulent means, any money from a health care benefit program. Like most fraud offenses, the key element of a charge of federal health care fraud is the intent to defraud. Under healthcare fraud, the level of intent is a little more relaxed than that of the False Claims Act.
We Aim to Immediately Disprove Any of the Knowledge Requirements and Above Elements When Defending Your False Claims Act Case.
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Federal Wire Fraud Lawyers for Government Contractors & Health Care Organizations – Minimize Costly Legal Mistakes and Reduce Civil and Criminal Exposure
Federal contractors and corporations face multiple charges when accused of white collar crimes such as government contractor fraud or health care fraud.
Common charges brought against you include federal wire fraud, conspiracy to defraud the government, mail fraud and more.
You don’t have time to waste when the feds decide to target you or investigate. You have to start developing a legal defense. Our federal wire fraud attorneys can help you.
What Is Wire Fraud?
Federal Wire fraud, especially in 18 USC 1343 federal procurement fraud and healthcare fraud cases, involves attempts to acquire contracts through bidding, submitting invoices or claims to the government to get paid, submitting for federal grants or loans, of submitting false information money or other property through false representation via telephone, fax or some other electronic communication. It can also include forms of electronic communication, including text messages, emails, or social media posts.
Wire fraud can be considered a “white-collar crime.” The key to defending against fraud charges is to attack the case at the investigation stage. If you have already been charged, then the approach will be to deconstruct the prosecutor’s evidence and to cut off the burden of proof that the government must show.
ARE YOU A GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR OR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL INVESTIGATED OR CHARGED WITH WIRE FRAUD?
GET YOUR FREE CHECKLIST TO AVOID JAIL TIME AND START A SOLID LEGAL DEFENSE HERE
Types of Government Contract, Health Care and Corporate Cases
Our federal wire fraud defense firm offers the following legal defense services:
Top Government Contractor Fraud Lawyers
When small businesses and larger defense contractors get caught in the crosshairs of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Inspector General (OIG) or other federal law enforcement agencies, our government contractor fraud lawyers will guide you and your company through the complex process from the investigation stage all the way through trial if needed. We handle
- SBA Small Business Program fraud cases ( SDVOSB, HUBZone, 8(a) etc)
- TINA Violation Charges, and more
- Contractor Conspiracy
- Contractor Buy American Act Fraud
- Trade Agreements Act False Claims Act
- FAR violations etc.
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What Type of Actions of Communication Support Wire Fraud Charges?
Federal prosecutors can harness federal wire fraud in several ways. Health care providers, corporate executives, and government contractors can find themselves facing fraud charges when business includes faxes, writings transmitted on the internet, radion and electronic means. The DOJ (18 USC 1343) always seeks to provide that you:
- created or participated in a scheme to defraud the government out of money or property;
- did so with the intent to defraud;
- It was reasonably foreseeable that you would use wire communications, and
- you did, in fact, use interstate wire communications
What Are Common Approaches to Fraud Cases Under 18 U S C § 1343 By Federal Prosecutors?
Government attorneys look for evidence of false statements, material misrepresentation, false pretenses, and common schemes involved in government contracting cases and health care fraud cases.
When federal prosecutors investigate or charge government contractors for procurement fraud or wire fraud under 18 USC 1343, it is common to also charge anyone associated with the relationship during the performance of the contract with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The investigation usually focuses on the underlying violations such as Buy American Act non-compliance, Trade Agreements Act noncompliance, SBA fraud, or other violations such as various compliance with SBA small business programs. These are all areas that our federal wire fraud attorneys can help with.
When federal contractors use telephones, fax machines, or the internet to submit bids, submit invoices etc., the prosecutors can then bring charges once they develop enough evidence for the underlying violation.
- Without representation from experienced government contracts federal government fraud law firm companies and CEOs are almost always convicted.
- Our federal wire fraud defense firm knows how to push back aggressively against allegations of wrongdoing and federal crimes.
- Our goal as federal wire fraud defense lawyers is to minimize the chance of our clients going to federal prison.
Best Wire Fraud Defense Lawyers for Federal Contractors Nationwide
At Watson & Associates, we’re not just federal defense wire fraud criminal lawyers. We’re also federal procurement law criminal defense attorneys, standing as a bastion for federal contractors across the United States. As the best defense wire fraud lawyers for federal contractors subjected to complex FAR and procurement regulations, we aim to safeguard our clients from indictments after government investigations and avert convictions at criminal trials.
What is Federal Wire Fraud and How Can It Affect My Career as a Government Contractor?
Answer:
Federal wire fraud involves using electronic communications, such as emails or wire transfers, to carry out a scheme to defraud someone of money, property, or honest services. As a government contractor, being charged with wire fraud can have severe consequences, including loss of current contracts, debarment from future contracts, and significant reputational damage. It is crucial to seek immediate legal counsel to understand your rights and develop a defense strategy.
What Are the Penalties for Federal Wire Fraud in the Healthcare Sector?
Answer:
Penalties for federal wire fraud in the healthcare sector can include hefty fines, restitution, and imprisonment of up to 20 years per count. Additionally, healthcare professionals may face revocation of medical licenses, exclusion from federal health programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and damage to professional standing. Our skilled federal wire fraud defense attorneys and health care fraud defense attorney can help mitigate these penalties and explore possible defenses or plea bargains.
Can I Be Charged with Wire Fraud for Actions Taken in a Different State?
Answer:
Yes, federal wire fraud charges can be brought against you for actions that cross state lines or involve interstate communications. This makes it a federal offense, subject to investigation and prosecution by federal authorities. Jurisdictional issues can complicate your case, so it’s critical to work with an attorney who has experience in federal court and understands the complexities of multi-state investigations.
How Can I Defend Myself Against Federal Wire Fraud Charges as a High-Level Executive?
Answer:
Defending against federal wire fraud charges requires a thorough understanding of both the technical aspects of the case and the specific intent to defraud. Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment, or proving that the communications in question were not part of a fraudulent scheme. Experienced wire fraud criminal lawyers can scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, identify weaknesses, and build a robust defense to protect your reputation and freedom.
What Should I Do if I’m Under Investigation for Federal Wire Fraud?
Answer:
If you are under investigation for federal wire fraud, it’s essential to act swiftly. Do not speak to investigators without legal representation. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to guide you through the process. They can advise on how to respond to subpoenas, preserve your rights, and potentially negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure immunity in exchange for cooperation.
How Can I Defend Against Federal Mail Fraud?
Penalties for Mail Fraud
Federal Contractor Wire Fraud Criminal Lawyers – Federal Wire Fraud Defense Firm Practice Leaders
Touting over 30 years in the federal realm, our team of federal wire fraud lawyers have honed their skills in both government contracting and wire fraud criminal defense.
Scott D. Lovelock. Mr. Lovelock brings a wealth of proven knowledge and experience helping clients address issues of risk assessment, mitigation and regulatory compliance as well as a savvy level of business and military experience that gives him a unique perspective to help government contractors succeed and avoid most of the costly mistakes that are encountered when failing to understand and implement required compliance programs or understanding the nuances of working with government agencies.
A retired Air Force officer, with extensive operational experience with procurement law for contractors in both the field, Numbered Commands, Air Force Headquarters and the Joint Staff, he brings a unique and focused perspective of DoD operations in how he serves our clients.
Walter H. Foster, Of Counsel, is a seasoned wire fraud defense attorney and former Army colonel with deep experience orchestrating teams, imparting clarity and counsel, and executing on behalf of both private enterprise and the federal government. From managing technical construction in Iraq to prosecuting terroists. He is well-versed in policies of the United States and the various areas involved with high-profile cases.
Call 1.866.601.5518 and speak directly to Lead Federal Wire Fraud Lawyer Theodore Watson.
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Looking for the best wire fraud Lawyers for government contract cases?
Reach Out to Us: To discuss your concerns and get the best possible defense and avoid a wire fraud penalty, contact Watson & Associates’ government contracts and federal wire fraud lawyers, procurement fraud attorneys and mail fraud attorneys today. Call us toll-free at 1.866.601.5518 and let our leading federal mail and federal wire fraud criminal defense lawyersguide you.