The False Claims Act helps people submit claims involving fraudulent activity for an award to the federal government. This act covers a wide range of circumstances, from contractors providing services to the United States to healthcare workers filing claims through Medicaid or Medicare.
Given the staggering number of fraudulent transactions each year, it’s impossible to police every industry with the limited resources available. However, the False Claims Act provides a solution.
Dedicated False Claims Act attorneys could assist those with inside information about fraud against the government, guiding them through the process of seeking compensation. Let an experienced lawyer be your advocate in understanding and pursuing False Claims Act rewards in Columbia.
Under the False Claims Act, private citizens can pursue legal action that entitles them to an award if the tips they provide result in a fraud-related conviction. These lawsuits are known as writs of qui tam.
When these lawsuits are successful, a Columbia whistleblower is entitled to monetary rewards through the False Claims Act. This usually amounts to between 15 and 25 percent of any money recovered from the defendant during the prosecution or administrative action. It is important to note that money is only available if the government secures a conviction.
Not all information is enough to qualify for compensation through a qui tam lawsuit. The tip must be enough to result in a conviction and must be new information. Providing the same details that someone else has already offered will not result in a reward.
Most people may not immediately realize whether their information will likely lead to a conviction. This can result in someone assuming their assistance is not needed and that the odds of recovering an award are low.
The best path forward is relying on experienced legal counsel to review the facts and provide insight into whether a qui tam action may be successful. In many situations, the evidence offered by a whistleblower is more powerful than they realize.
Specific details about whistleblowers will also determine if they are eligible for compensation. This is true even if the basic guidelines of a successful claim have been met. An attorney could answer questions about who in Columbia qualifies for rewards under the False Claims Act.
Certain individuals are never eligible for payments under the False Claims Act. This includes different members of law enforcement and other authorities. Anyone with a mandate to report or investigate incidents of alleged fraud is unqualified for compensation, including police officers and employees of federal agencies that oversee these types of investigations.
In addition, the target of a criminal investigation is also barred from recovering compensation through a qui tam lawsuit. This prohibition is in place to prevent someone from benefiting financially when they are directly involved in the underlying scheme. Speak to a seasoned legal professional today for more information on whistleblower rewards eligibility.
When you or someone you know has information regarding another person or business defrauding the federal government, you might be entitled to False Claims Act rewards in Columbia.
These cases are complex, but you never have to take on this challenge on your own. Reach out right away to learn how seasoned lawyers could help. Our knowledgeable whistleblower attorneys could assist with your case.
