Are you concerned because you know that your employer may be committing fraud against the government, and you’re unsure of what to do next? The skilled attorneys at Bayuk Pratt can help. With over 50 years of combined experience, founders Frank Bayuk and Bradley Pratt have the knowledge and background to protect your rights and effectively handle your claim. Their past experience with top defense firms gives them the edge necessary to fight hard — and win.
Contact Bayuk Pratt today for a free initial consultation to take the first step toward exposing fraud and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
How an Atlanta Employment Lawyer Can Help in a False Claims Act/Whistleblower Claim
An Atlanta employment lawyer can provide valuable support in a False Claims Act/Whistleblower Protection Act claim. They can explain your rights and guide you through every stage of the claims process.
First, your lawyer will assess the strength of your case and gather evidence to support it. This might include collecting documents, interviewing witnesses, and conducting an independent investigation.
Next, they will handle the process of preparing and filing your lawsuit. This includes completing legal paperwork and meeting all relevant filing deadlines. Your lawyer will also communicate with government officials as necessary during the investigation, representing you and protecting your interests.
Your lawyer can protect your rights if your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim. They can take action against your employer, seeking legal remedies such as reinstatement or compensation for reduced income and other related losses.
Throughout the process, your Atlanta False Claims Act lawyer will provide useful advice and effective representation, increasing your chances of a successful outcome. They will work relentlessly to recover any financial rewards you are entitled to for exposing those defrauding the government.
What Is the False Claims Act All About?
The Georgia False Claims Act (FCA) is a law that allows people to report fraud against the government. This law encourages whistleblowers to expose businesses or individuals who defraud the state. Many types of fraud are covered by the FCA, including false billing, overcharging, and providing substandard goods or services. If someone reports fraud under the FCA and the case is successful, the person who filed the report can receive a portion of any recovered funds for their efforts.
The FCA includes provisions that protect whistleblowers from retaliation. Employers cannot fire, demote, or harass employees for reporting fraud. If retaliation occurs, the whistleblower can seek legal remedies, including reinstatement and monetary compensation.
What Is a False Claims Act/Whistleblower Claim?
A False Claims Act/whistleblower claim involves reporting fraud against the government. A False Claims Act/whistleblower claim is a type of qui tam claim. The term “qui tam” comes from a Latin phrase meaning “he who sues in this matter for the king as well as for himself.”
To start a claim under Georgia’s Whistleblower Act, the whistleblower or “relator” files a lawsuit on behalf of the government. The government then investigates the claim. If the government decides to join the case, it takes over the prosecution. If the government does not join, the whistleblower can continue the lawsuit independently. Whether or not the government takes over, whistleblowers can receive a portion of the recovered funds if their cases succeed.
What Are Examples of False Claims Act/Whistleblower Claims?
The False Claims Act targets various forms of fraud against the government. These violations often involve businesses or individuals trying to cheat government programs for financial gain. The following are some common examples of False Claims Act violations:
- Healthcare Fraud – Healthcare providers might commit fraud by submitting false claims to government healthcare programs like Medicare or Medicaid. For example, a doctor might bill for services they did not provide or overcharge for treatments. They might also bill for unnecessary procedures or use incorrect billing codes to receive higher reimbursements.
- Defense Contracting Fraud – Contractors working with the Department of Defense might submit false invoices for goods or services. They might deliver substandard or defective products, overcharge for materials, or bill for work they never completed.
- Grant Fraud – Organizations that receive government grants might misuse funds by falsifying reports or inflating expenses. For instance, a research institution might claim costs for non-existent projects or divert funds for unauthorized uses.
- Procurement Fraud – Companies bidding on government contracts might engage in fraudulent practices to win contracts. This could include submitting false certifications, colluding with competitors to fix prices, or providing misleading information about their capabilities.
- Education Fraud – Educational institutions receiving federal funds might commit fraud by inflating enrollment numbers or falsifying aid applications. For example, a college might manipulate student loan applications or report more students than it actually has to get more financial aid.
What Can You Do If You Suspect Your Employer Is Breaking the Law?
If you know or suspect that your employer is defrauding the government, you can take steps to protect yourself and expose the wrongdoing. Here are the steps you should consider taking:
- Document all instances of suspected fraud or illegal activity.
- Keep copies of any relevant emails, documents, or communications.
- Record the dates, times, and details of any suspicious activities.
- Avoid discussing your suspicions with coworkers or supervisors.
- Contact a lawyer with experience handling whistleblower cases for advice.
- Avoid using company devices to document or report the fraud.
- Do not confront the individuals involved in the suspected fraud.
- Gather evidence that supports your claims, such as invoices or reports.
- Keep your lawyer informed of any new developments or threats.
- Follow your lawyer’s advice on how to proceed with your claim.
- Cooperate with any government investigations into the fraud.
