False Claims Act & Whistleblower (Qui Tam) Litigation
False Claims Act (FCA) and whistleblower (qui tam) cases present some of the most complex and high-stakes challenges for businesses and individuals working with federal or state funds. These cases can lead to substantial financial penalties, exclusion from government programs, and significant reputational damage. At the same time, they offer powerful incentives for whistleblowers who expose fraud.
At Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns LLP, we represent both defendants facing FCA investigations and whistleblowers pursuing qui tam actions. With decades of experience in federal litigation, white collar criminal defense, and healthcare law, our attorneys provide strategic, results-driven representation in all aspects of FCA matters.
Defending Against False Claims Act Allegations
FCA lawsuits typically begin with a sealed complaint filed by a whistleblower, followed by a government investigation. If the government intervenes, the risk of financial and operational consequences increases significantly.
Our Healthcare and Litigation Groups regularly defend clients—including hospitals, physician groups, billing companies, and government contractors—in FCA matters involving:
- Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE billing fraud
- Upcoding, unbundling, or phantom billing
- Kickbacks or Stark Law violations
- False claims for services not rendered or medically unnecessary care
- Procurement and defense contract fraud
We also advise on parallel investigations, internal reviews, subpoena responses, and agency enforcement actions, including suspension or debarment from federal programs. Our approach focuses on early intervention and proactive defense to discourage government involvement and limit liability.
Representing Whistleblowers in Qui Tam Actions
We also advocate for individuals who wish to report fraud through qui tam lawsuits under the False Claims Act. Whistleblowers (also known as relators) play a vital role in uncovering fraud against federal or state governments. These cases are filed under seal, allowing for a confidential investigation by the government.
Our attorneys assist whistleblowers with:
- Assessing potential FCA violations
- Preparing and filing sealed complaints
- Coordinating with DOJ and federal investigators
- Protecting client confidentiality
- Seeking the maximum allowable relator share (up to 30%) of the recovery
Common whistleblower cases involve fraud in healthcare, defense contracting, research funding, and federal loan programs.
Industries Commonly Affected by FCA Actions
While any entity receiving government funds can be targeted, FCA cases frequently arise in:
- Healthcare (hospitals, physicians, hospice, pharmacy, home health)
- Government contracting and defense industries
- Higher education and research institutions
- Financial services and federally backed loans
- Infrastructure and construction projects
Examples of False Claims Act Violations
- Billing for services not provided or medically unnecessary
- Submitting false or inflated invoices to government programs
- Misrepresenting eligibility for grants or contracts
- Kickback schemes or self-referral violations
- Failing to return identified overpayments
Why Choose Johnson Pope?
- Federal Experience: Many of our attorneys are former federal prosecutors or law enforcement agents.
- Multidisciplinary Support: We collaborate across our Healthcare, White Collar Defense, and Litigation practices.
- Trial-Ready Representation: Our litigators are skilled negotiators and seasoned trial attorneys.
- Balanced Perspective: We understand FCA matters from both defense and relator viewpoints, giving us a strategic edge.
Contact Us
If you are under investigation for False Claims Act violations or considering filing a whistleblower (qui tam) claim, contact Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns LLP today. Our team offers confidential, experienced counsel to navigate the complexities of FCA litigation and protect your interests from the start.
