Los Angeles Qui Tam Lawyers

At Matern Law Group, we are committed to protecting the rights of Los Angeles employees and consumers, including the right to report illegal or unethical activity without fear of retaliation or intimidation.

If you have knowledge of fraud or misconduct against the government, speak with a Los Angeles qui tam lawyer at Matern Law Group for trusted legal guidance. Call 310-987-4226 or complete our contact form today.

What is Qui Tam?

Qui tam is a provision in the False Claims Act that allows private individuals, often called “whistleblowers,” to sue on behalf of the government if they have evidence that someone or a company is defrauding the government. The whistleblower can potentially receive a portion of any money recovered through the lawsuit as a reward for their role in uncovering the fraud.

For consumers and employees, qui tam actions provide a way to fight against unethical practices and protect public funds. If you are aware of fraud against the government, you can take legal action, even if you’re not directly harmed by the fraud. This can include things like overcharging for government services, billing for services not provided, or any other actions that improperly take money from government programs.

Legal consequences of qui tam actions can vary:

• For Los Angeles Whistleblowers: There’s a potential financial reward if the lawsuit results in the recovery of government funds. However, whistleblowers might also face retaliation from their employers, such as being fired or demoted. The False Claims Act offers protection against such retaliation, and whistleblowers can sue for damages if they are retaliated against.
• For Accused Parties: Companies or individuals found guilty of defrauding the government can face significant financial penalties, including fines and repayment of improperly obtained funds. They may also face criminal charges if the fraud is severe.

In summary, qui tam actions empower individuals to act as watchdogs on behalf of the government to expose and deter fraud, with financial incentives for whistleblowers and strict penalties for those found guilty of fraud.

Filing Los Angeles Qui Tam Lawsuits

A qui tam lawsuit is a way to report fraud against the government. To file, you must be the first to bring the information forward—it can’t already be public knowledge or something you only heard secondhand. Before the lawsuit is officially filed, you must share this information confidentially with the government.

How the process works:

• The government reviews your claims privately, without public disclosure.
• After investigating, they decide whether to join your lawsuit.
• If they join, they help lead the case; if not, you and your lawyer can move forward independently.

Why legal support is essential:

Filing this type of lawsuit is complex and comes with challenges, such as:

• Risk of retaliation or backlash
• Lengthy legal battles
• Potential damage to your reputation

Having experienced qui tam lawyers on your side ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.

Deadlines for filing:

• Qui tam lawsuits: Generally, you have six years from when the fraud occurred (or three years from when the fraud should have reasonably been discovered by the government).
• Workplace-related claims (like harassment or wrongful termination): Deadlines are much shorter, so acting quickly is critical.

If you believe a company is defrauding the government and you have evidence, contacting our Los Angeles qui tam lawyers is a smart first step. We offer free consultations to help you understand your case and your options as a whistleblower.

Types of Qui Tam Claims Common in Los Angeles

Qui tam lawsuits often involve exposing fraud against government programs, such as overbilling on contracts, Medicare or Medicaid fraud, or misuse of public funds. The experienced Los Angeles qui tam lawyers at Matern Law Group understand these complex cases and are prepared to guide you in holding wrongdoers accountable while protecting your rights.

Why Act Quickly: Time Limits and Risks

Timing is critical in qui tam cases. Strict statutes of limitations may prevent you from filing if you wait too long, resulting in delays that weaken your claim. Working with a seasoned Los Angeles Law Firm guides you through complex filing requirements without delay, minimizes risks of retaliation, and strengthens your opportunity for recovery.

How Matern Law Group Can Help You

Matern Law Group brings the experience and dedication needed to handle qui tam claims. Our team of Los Angeles employment lawyers works to safeguard your confidentiality, develop a strong case, and pursue the rewards you may be entitled to. Fill out our contact form below for a free, confidential consultation.