Federal whistleblower lawsuits, also known as qui tam actions, empower individuals to report fraud against the government and recover a share of the funds recovered. At Barrett Law, PLLC, we represent whistleblowers across the nation, including Washington D.C., and have decades of experience helping clients expose fraud, navigate the complexities of qui tam lawsuits, and secure full compensation for their courageous actions.
This page provides a comprehensive overview of federal qui tam claims, the process for filing whistleblower lawsuits, and why Barrett Law, PLLC is the right choice for your case.
What Is Qui Tam?
Qui tam is a legal provision under the False Claims Act (FCA) that allows private citizens, known as relators, to file lawsuits on behalf of the U.S. government against entities committing fraud involving federal funds. The term “qui tam” derives from a Latin phrase meaning “he who sues in this matter for the king as well as for himself.”
Whistleblowers play a vital role in uncovering fraudulent activities such as healthcare fraud, defense contractor fraud, and financial fraud, often leading to significant recoveries for taxpayers.
Types of Federal Qui Tam Claims
Whistleblowers may report various types of fraud under the False Claims Act. Below, we outline common categories of fraud and provide in-depth information about each.
1. Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud is one of the most common types of qui tam cases. It includes:
- Billing for services not provided.
- Upcoding to receive higher reimbursements.
- Paying or receiving kickbacks for patient referrals.
- Fraudulent off-label drug marketing.
Statute of Limitations: Qui tam lawsuits must be filed within 6 years of the violation or within 3 years of when the government knew or should have known about the fraud, but no later than 10 years after the violation.
Example: In 2022, a whistleblower helped uncover $900 million in false Medicare claims against a large healthcare provider, leading to one of the largest settlements in FCA history.
2. Defense Contractor Fraud
Fraud involving defense contracts can include:
- Overcharging for goods or services.
- Providing defective equipment to the military.
- Falsifying certifications or test results.
Statute of Limitations: Similar to healthcare fraud, claims must be filed within 6 years or 3 years of the government’s discovery, with a maximum of 10 years.
Example: A whistleblower lawsuit in 2019 exposed fraudulent billing by a contractor supplying defective military equipment, resulting in a $50 million recovery.
3. Procurement Fraud
Procurement fraud typically occurs during government contracting and includes:
- Bid-rigging and collusion.
- Substituting inferior materials without disclosure.
- Inflating costs or labor hours.
Statute of Limitations: The same timeline of 6 years (or 3 years from discovery) and a 10-year maximum applies.
Example: In 2020, a company was found guilty of inflating costs on a federal construction project, resulting in a $25 million settlement.
4. Grant and Research Fraud
Grant fraud involves misusing federal funds, often through:
- Falsified research data.
- Using funds for unauthorized purposes.
Statute of Limitations: 6 years from the violation, 3 years from discovery, or a maximum of 10 years.
Example: A whistleblower exposed a major university in 2021 for misrepresenting data to secure federal research grants, resulting in a $15 million settlement.
5. Financial Industry Fraud
Financial fraud includes:
- Misrepresenting information to obtain federal insurance or guarantees.
- Fraudulent activities involving federally insured financial institutions.
Statute of Limitations: The same 6-year/3-year/10-year rule applies.
Example: In 2022, a whistleblower uncovered fraudulent loan practices by a major bank, leading to a $50 million settlement.
6. Environmental Fraud
Environmental fraud involves:
- Falsifying compliance reports.
- Violating environmental regulations while receiving federal funds.
Statute of Limitations: 6 years from the violation, or 3 years from discovery, with a maximum of 10 years.
Example: A whistleblower case in 2023 revealed falsified reports by a contractor receiving federal environmental cleanup funds, resulting in a $75 million recovery.
The Qui Tam Lawsuit Process
Filing a qui tam lawsuit involves several stages:
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your case with an experienced whistleblower attorney.
- Filing Under Seal: The lawsuit is filed confidentially and provided to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for review.
- Government Investigation: The DOJ investigates the claims and decides whether to intervene.
- Litigation or Settlement: If the government intervenes, it leads the case; otherwise, the relator and their attorney proceed independently.
- Recovery and Compensation: Successful cases result in the relator receiving 15% to 30% of the recovered funds.
Types of Compensation in Qui Tam Cases
Relators may be eligible for:
- A percentage of recovered funds (15% to 30%).
- Attorney fees and costs.
- Protection from retaliation, including reinstatement and back pay under the False Claims Act.
Why You Need an Attorney
Qui tam lawsuits are highly complex, requiring knowledge of federal laws, strict deadlines, and procedural rules. An experienced attorney ensures:
- Proper filing and compliance with deadlines.
- Representation during government investigations.
- Maximized chances of recovery.
Why Choose Barrett Law, PLLC?
At Barrett Law, PLLC, we bring decades of experience in whistleblower cases across the U.S., including Washington D.C. and all 50 states. We offer:
- Proven results in high-profile qui tam cases.
- Nationwide representation for whistleblowers.
- 24/7 availability for consultations.
- Confidential case evaluations to protect your interests.
Qui Tam Whistleblower Lawsuit FAQs
What is the False Claims Act?
The False Claims Act is a federal law that allows whistleblowers to sue on behalf of the government for fraud involving federal funds. It provides rewards for successful claims and protects whistleblowers from retaliation.
What percentage of recovered funds can a whistleblower receive?
Whistleblowers typically receive 15% to 30% of the total recovered funds, depending on whether the government intervenes in the case.
Can whistleblowers remain anonymous?
Yes, qui tam lawsuits are filed under seal, meaning they remain confidential during the government’s investigation phase. Your identity may only become public if the case proceeds to litigation.
What protections do whistleblowers have against retaliation?
Under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. Remedies include reinstatement, back pay, and compensation for damages.
How long do I have to file a whistleblower lawsuit?
Qui tam lawsuits must be filed within 6 years of the violation or 3 years of government discovery, with a maximum of 10 years from the date of the violation.
Contact Barrett Law, PLLC Today
If you’re considering filing a whistleblower lawsuit, trust Barrett Law, PLLC to guide you through every step of the process. With a national practice and a proven track record, we represent whistleblowers across the U.S., from Washington D.C. to Mississippi. Call (601) 790-1505 anytime, 24/7/365, to schedule your FREE consultation. Let us fight for you and help expose fraud while protecting your rights.