Charleston, WV False Claims Act Attorneys

What Is a False Claims Act Violation?

The False Claims Act is a federal law designed to incentivize whistleblowers to report and pursue legal action against companies that defraud the government. Under this law, any private citizen can sue another individual or company that is defrauding the government and recover compensation on the government’s behalf. These legal actions are called “qui tam” lawsuits.

A qui tam lawsuit may be warranted if you have evidence of:

• A person or organization submitting a bill to the government for work that was not performed
• A person or organization submitting a bill to the government for inadequate work
• A person or organization providing a false statement or record that results in the government recovering less than what it is owed
• A person or organization failing to return a government overpayment

If you are suspect your employer may be defrauding the government but are unsure if the activity constitutes a False Claims Act violation, you should immediately get in touch with a legal professional. Our Charleston False Claims Act attorneys can confidentially discuss your concerns and advise whether you have a case. 

False Claims Act Protections for Private Employees

Private employees have the right to pursue qui tam actions against their employer. Note that public employees in West Virginia operate under the rules of a separate whistleblower law.

When a private employer files a qui tam lawsuit against their employer, the False Claims Act protects the whistleblower from employer retaliation. This means the private employer cannot terminate, demote, harass, or discriminate against the whistleblowing employee. Anyone who offers testimony or participates in an investigation related to the qui tam lawsuit also receives employer retaliation protection.

Benefits of Filing a Qui Tam Lawsuit under the False Claims Act

Private employees who take a stand against fraudulent activity can be for their courage under the False Claims Act. When a qui tam lawsuit is successful, the whistleblower is entitled to 15 to 30% of the government’s financial award. The private employer will also incur monetary penalties and treble damages, which should ideally disincentivize future fraudulent activity.

The False Claims Act also takes into account the real risk of retaliation that employees face when reporting misconduct. If a private employee experiences retaliation after blowing the whistle, the law entitles them to many forms of relief, including reinstatement (with seniority), double back pay (with interest), reimbursement of legal fees, and compensation for discriminatory treatment.

Our Charleston False Claims Act lawyers understand the intricacies of employment law and can help you navigate these delicate situations. If you are just discovering evidence of fraud and have questions about coming forward, our team at Bailess Law Firm can provide the compassionate and knowledgeable guidance you need to make an informed decision. 

If your employer has retaliated against you after blowing the whistle, we can walk you through additional legal options and fervently represent you in and out of the courtroom. No matter your circumstances, we are committed to championing your interests and will always fight to recover the full amount you are owed.

Put our experience to work for you. Call (304) 841-0037 or contact us online to discuss your situation with us.