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The False Claims Act is one of the most important protections American citizens have to recover the billions of dollars stolen through fraud from U.S. Government Programs every year. Under the act, anyone who submits or causes another to submit false claims for government funds will have to pay high penalties. The penalties are up to three times the government's damages plus $5,500 to $11,000 per false claim. Anyone who "whistle blows," or essentially alerts the government about a false claim, could receive 15% to 30% of the amount recovered for the government under the False Claims Act.

The False Claims Act dates back to the Civil War when unscrupulous suppliers overcharged the Union Army for lame mules. President Lincoln's administration knew that insider knowledge was needed to expose the swindler's schemes. So, in 1863, Congress passed the False Claims Act with "qui tam" provisions that reward private citizens suing for fraud on behalf of the government.

Almost 150 years later, the False Claims Act still works as an effective tool to combat government fraud. In 2008, the federal government recovered nearly $1.34 billion in settlements and judgments under the act.

If you or someone you know has any information in regard to fraudulent claims being made, you should consult with an attorney immediately. Strict time limits and legal procedures apply to these types of lawsuits, so it is important to contact a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible. Any useful information that you can provide should be given to your attorney. Reliable information, or useful information, should be considered as

• Hard copy documents
• Contracts
• Electronic evidence, such as emails, text messages, faxes
• Marketing brochures
• Proof of violations
• Requests for payment to the government

Before contacting an attorney, and potentially the government officials, you must fully understand your case and what you will be disclosing. Prior to making the decision, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the evidence critical to establishing statutory fraud?
• Is there direct proof of the Defendant's liability?
• What are the risks of losing the case?
• Are there any limitations on investigations once the case is filed?
• What are the circumstances under which the government might seek to deny you any recovery?

If you feel as though the information that you have would help government officials with fraud, please contact our offices. We would be happy to look at the information that you have, and determine whether you have a viable case under the False Claims Act. Please contact us today!