Highly Skilled Phoenix Whistleblower Attorneys Provide Effective False Claims Act Assistance
Assisting Arizona employees through employment law matters
The federal government and Department of Justice rely on honest people to report fraudulent actions that misappropriate public funds. Many times, these reports come from employees who have firsthand knowledge about the unscrupulous activities of their employers. When these brave individuals choose to speak out about the wrongdoings they witness, they may utilize the False Claims Act to bring a federal lawsuit. The complexities of this act can make these cases extremely challenging without assistance from experienced Phoenix qui tam lawyers.
At Plattner Verderame, P.C., we pride ourselves on fighting for truth and justice, so we appreciate the efforts of whistleblowers to expose wrongdoings. Our extensive experience has provided us with an in-depth understanding about the requirements for a successful claim. If you have evidence of wrongdoing against the federal government, don't assume that you can't bring a case while currently employed. Our attorneys can help you institute a False Claims Act case during your employment.
What is the False Claims Act?
The False Claims Act allows individuals and entities to sue parties on behalf of the United States government, provided they have evidence of fraudulent activity against federal programs or contracts. These cases are also referred to as qui tam matters, and when they arise, the government may elect to join the action or decline to take part. In situations where the government declines, private plaintiffs have the option to continue the claim on their own.
For example, in 2009, the University of Phoenix was involved in a False Claims Act lawsuit. Two former employees alleged that the school violated federal student aid provisions by paying admissions counselors an incentive-based compensation in relation to the number of recruited students. Government officials chose not to join the case, but they did provide assistance and documents in support of the plaintiffs. The school ultimately settled the case for $67.5 million, with awards to the individual whistleblowers in the amount of $19 million.
Under the False Claims Act, there are numerous activities that are classified as possible violations, including:
- Knowingly presenting (or causing to be presented) a fraudulent claim for payment from the federal government.
- Knowingly using (or causing to be used) a falsified statement of official record for the purpose of getting the federal government to pay a claim.
- Conspiring with others to get a false or fraudulent claim paid by the federal government.
- Knowingly using (or causing to be used) a false record or statement for the purpose of concealing, avoiding, or decreasing a payment obligation or transmittal of property to the federal government.
Reliable representation for False Claims Act matters
The requirements for a False Claims Act case are somewhat complex. For example, any individual or entity can bring a claim, but not if a previous lawsuit has also been filed involving the same evidence and set of facts. There are also numerous rules about the proper jurisdiction for filing a case and what documents are required by the court.
Another important aspect of these matters is the tendency of many employers to retaliate against the honest employees for whistleblowing. These wrongful terminations are in violation of numerous federal policies and an employer may face significant penalties under a successful retaliation lawsuit.
Our knowledgeable Phoenix whistleblower attorneys have substantial experience with False Claims Act matters. We understand the numerous requirements of the act and how to successfully meet each and every one of them, so you can receive the compensation your courage deserves.
Workers who successfully reveal fraud generally receive 15% to 30% of the total amount recovered. As evidenced by the University of Phoenix case, reward amounts sometimes reach into the millions of dollars depending on the specifics of the fraudulent activities. Our lawyers also know how to mount a successful wrongful termination case in cases of employer retaliation.
Types of Cases We Handle
Our attorneys handle a variety of cases, including:
Helping Phoenix employees through complex False Claims Act cases
The False Claims Act provides an opportunity for honest people to fight fraudulent activities against the federal government. At Plattner Verderame, P.C., our skilled Phoenix qui tam lawyers believe that employees should not be wrongly punished for doing what is right for their country. We understand the complexities of these cases and you can rely on our lawyers to provide you with representation you can trust. Call us today at 602-266-2002, or complete our contact form. We handle all cases on a contingency-fee basis.
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