Types of Qui Tam Cases

TYPES OF QUI TAM CASES PURSUED UNDER THE FALSE CLAIMS ACT

Since the revitalization of the False Claims Act (”FCA”) by the 1986 Amendments, the government has aggressively pursued civil, criminal, and administrative actions against those who swindle money from the federal treasury through kickbacks, fraudulent claims, or off-label marketing, just to name a few. Since there is no shortage of corrupt contractors, the U.S. government, Qui Tam lawyers and relators, the private citizens who bring action on behalf of the government, have been aggressively pursuing Qui Tam claims. The Department of Justice reported, in fiscal year 2014, that False Claims Act FCA recoveries were the highest in years, totaling nearly $6 billion. Since its inception during the Civil War and its signing into law by President Abraham Lincoln on March 2nd, 1863, FCA has been integral in recovering for the U.S. taxpayer and the Federal government from unscrupulous individuals and entities. The Department of Justice believes the False Claims Act has been the single most successful anti-fraud act ever signed into law.

Although the majority of these recoveries from a Qui Tam lawsuit were in the area of healthcare fraud, significant recoveries were also made in other areas. Most often, qui tam cases involve healthcare (Medicaid, Medicare) and defense contractors, but some also relate to financial services, environmental regulation, oil, gas and mining, and scientific research. Some common types of whistleblower cases and types of fraud are listed here: Clink the links to learn more and watch the video.

Qui Tam Litigation: Safeguarding Public Funds and Upholding Integrity

In the intricate landscape of qui tam litigation, the United States has witnessed a significant escalation in the enforcement of the False Claims Act, targeting government fraud and safeguarding federal funds. This complex legal framework empowers qui tam relators, often whistleblowers, to file a qui tam lawsuit on behalf of the federal government, thereby challenging deceitful entities that submit false claims to extract unwarranted payments. A quintessential qui tam case unfolds when a private citizen, or qui tam plaintiff, observes misconduct, such as the misuse of government funds or fraudulent government contracts, and decides to take a stand. The role of the qui tam lawyer is pivotal, navigating through the dense terrain of qui tam law, ensuring that the qui tam complaint is meticulously crafted to meet stringent legal standards.

The narrative of qui tam actions is further enriched by the vigilant oversight of the Justice Department and the Attorney General, who meticulously assess each qui tam claim, determining the government’s stance on intervention. Qui tam litigation not only recuperates ill-gotten gains but also serves as a robust deterrent against future misconduct. The False Claims Act lawsuit, a cornerstone of consumer protection, acts as a bulwark against exploitation, extending its protective umbrella over a myriad of sectors, including government contracts, healthcare, and environmental regulation. As qui tam actions and whistleblower claims continue to surge, the dedication and expertise of qui tam lawyers play a crucial role in shaping a legal environment where integrity and accountability are paramount, safeguarding the sanctity of public resources against the backdrop of government fraud.

For more information and case citations, please see “Federal False Claims Act and Qui Tam Litigation,” published by Law Journal Press (2010).

For more information, email quitam@bafirm.com

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