The U.S. Department of Justice has recovered billions of dollars in False Claims Act (“FCA”) settlements and judgments in civil cases involving alleged fraud against the government.
Today, virtually any company or person receiving federal or state funds may be at risk of an FCA investigation or lawsuit, including traditional targets in healthcare and government contracting. With the potential for treble damages and penalties, as well as collateral consequences from suspension and debarment to exclusion from Medicare and Medicaid programs, the stakes for companies have never been higher.
How We Can Help
False Claims Act
For more than two decades, Blank Rome has represented companies and individuals in FCA investigations and litigation. Our False Claims Act practice draws upon the experience of many former federal prosecutors and leverages capabilities from the firm’s government contracts; state, federal, and joint investigations; and white collar defense practices to provide comprehensive service and advice to our clients.
Our Focus
We have a successful history of resolving FCA matters for clients prior to intervention and often short of litigation. When litigation is necessary, we draw on a seasoned team of trial attorneys, many of whom are former prosecutors, and litigate aggressively in federal and state courts around the country. We also have substantial experience resolving suspension and debarment cases and similar eligibility matters (including Medicare and Medicaid exclusions) that may arise from an FCA case.
Our Services
We successfully represent clients against FCA allegations involving virtually all forms of alleged misconduct:
- Cost and labor mischarging
- False representations and certifications
- GSA Schedule violations (including those based upon pricing and discounting disclosures)
- Kickbacks
- Medicare/Medicaid fraud
- Organizational conflicts of interests
- Truth in Negotiation Act violations
Our clients span industries, including:
- Professional services
- Hardware and software
- Logistics
- Finance
- Pharmaceuticals
- Medical/surgical devices
- Healthcare services
Procurement Fraud
Our Chambers USA-ranked Government Contracts Practice handles procurement fraud matters involving civilian and defense agencies. We draw on our deep insight into the unique statutes, regulations, and other contracting requirements that underlie FCA actions to build the strongest possible defense.
Healthcare
In the healthcare sector, Blank Rome has represented pharmaceutical and biologics companies, medical/surgical device manufacturers, clinical laboratory companies, hospitals, wholesalers, distributors, and other providers in a wide range of matters including allegations of Medicare/Medicaid fraud.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Blank Rome also has unique experience in resolving state FCA investigations and litigation through our state, federal, and joint investigations and white collar practices.