If you have evidence that a business—particularly one that you work for—has defrauded the government in some way, you may be able to act as a whistleblower against their actions. Through a legal action known as qui tam, you might be entitled to a portion of any fraudulently obtained funds that the government was able to recover using your information.
This process is not always easy, and pursuing it on your own is a mistake. A Philadelphia False Claims Act lawyer could help you navigate the system. Before you act alone, discuss your options with a seasoned attorney from the Marrone Law Firm, LLC.
Since the 1800s, the federal government has sought help from the general public with identifying fraud. Given the large number of contractors that work directly with the United States, it is impossible to police every agreement and transaction.
In an effort to reduce fraud, Congress enacted the False Claims Act. Among other things, this law allows members of the public to file what are known as “qui tam” actions in court. These individuals provide their insider information to the authorities and then may share in any unlawfully obtained funds that are recovered.
Initially, these complaints are filed under seal to allow authorities to review the information and also shield the whistleblower from retaliation. During this time, the federal government will investigate to determine any allegations of embezzlement or wrongdoing. If they are present, administrative or criminal prosecutions will be filed. A False Claims Act attorney in Philadelphia could assist a whistleblower while an investigation occurs.
There are multiple options for whistleblowers in Philadelphia. While most people with inside information regarding fraud rely on federal law, there are both state and city options for also pursuing a claim for compensation. The city’s False Claims Act allows someone with information related to a person defrauding the government to submit a report to the City Solicitor. If they choose to pursue legal action, the whistleblower may be entitled to a portion of what is recovered.
Pennsylvania also has its own version of the act, and it applies to fraud related to any “public body.” In practice, this means state or local entities. To qualify for compensation, a person must make a good faith effort to report the wrongdoing to a supervisor or employer before seeking compensation through a qui tam lawsuit.
Most qui tam actions are filed in federal court, and they are always related to fraudulent transactions with the United States. Countless contractors do business with the government, and not all of them follow the law as required. A qui tam action is available in cases where a witness can show they unlawfully used federal funds for an inappropriate purpose.
Like with the city and state, a person could recover a percentage of the fraudulent funds if they are returned to the government. This process can take months or even years to conclude, which makes it vital to have the support of a False Claims Act lawyer in Philadelphia.
When you submit information to the government regarding misappropriated funds, you have more than an opportunity to do the right thing. You also have a financial incentive to act by providing the authorities with what you know.
Now is the time to speak to a Philadelphia False Claims Act lawyer from the Marrone Law Firm. Call today for a private consultation.