Tips for Selecting a Whistleblower Lawyer in a Fraud Case
Reporting fraud against the government can be a frightening prospect. You know you should notify the proper authorities of someone’s illegal activity. However, you might also worry about your employer retaliating against you and costing you your job. You shouldn’t suffer professional consequences for doing the right thing.
Fortunately, you have rights under the law, and an experienced whistleblower attorney can protect you as you expose the wrongdoing of others. Your choice of an attorney is an important one. You should understand the laws and what’s at stake before making a decision. Keep reading to learn more about how to select a whistleblower lawyer in a fraud case.
What is a Whistleblower Lawsuit?
A whistleblower lawsuit is brought under the False Claims Act, a federal law prohibiting government fraud. Common examples of fraud include:
- Overcharging for goods
- Billing for uncompleted services
- Charging for materials that were never ordered
- Submitting a false invoice
- Unbundling billing codes
- Providing a medical provider with kickbacks
- Billing for services from an illegal referral
- Misrepresenting pharmaceutical safety
- Double billing
- Using fake diagnostic codes for Medicare or Medicaid coverage
- Federal student loan fraud
- Government construction fraud
- Defense/military contractor fraud
The False Claims Act protects people who report incidents of fraud, otherwise known as whistleblowers. Employers are not allowed to harass, discriminate against, or terminate the employment of a whistleblower.
How Do I Choose the Best Whistleblower Attorney?
The choice of a whistleblower attorney is an important one. Consider these criteria as you research your options:
- Experience – General legal experience isn’t enough. You need someone who frequently represents whistleblowers in particular. Look up the attorney’s credentials. Confirm whether they’ve handled a variety of qui tam lawsuits and know how to navigate these cases.
- Track record of success – Experience alone won’t win your case. Look at the whistleblower attorney’s case results. Pick a lawyer with a history of positive outcomes.
- Knowledge of whistleblower laws – A range of state and federal laws protect whistleblowers. You should choose an attorney who understands these laws and how they apply to your situation. The person you hire should also know what steps to take if your employer retaliates against you.
- Commitment to their clients – You want a lawyer who takes the time to get to know their clients and understand their needs. Hire an attorney who makes you confident they will aggressively protect your rights and interests.
- A solid reputation – Read testimonials online, look at awards and memberships, and talk to the lawyers’ past clients. A solid reputation speaks to a lawyer’s ethics, integrity, and respect within the legal community.
Contact an Experienced Qui Tam Lawyer Today
At the Employment and Commerce Law Group, we understand that speaking out against an employer is frightening and stressful. We can guide you through the complex process of pursuing a whistleblower claim safely and shield you from retaliation. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
