When an individual or company defrauds the federal government or state governments, it could give rise to criminal charges or civil liability under the False Claims Act. A qui tam lawsuit is a lawsuit brought by a whistleblower to enforce the federal False Claims Act or analogous state statutes.  The False Claims Act imposes civil liability on persons or companies who knowingly make or cause others to make false claims for the payment of government funds. Fraud occurs in virtually every industry in which government contracts exist. Types of government fraud include:

• Medicare and Medicaid fraud
• Defense contractor fraud
• Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) fraud
• Disaster loan fraud

If you come forward with this information, you could be financially rewarded and protected from criminal prosecution. Although you might be nervous to come forward for fear of repercussions from your employer, there are laws in place to protect you from retaliation.

If you are aware of fraud on the federal or state governments, contact our team of attorneys today.