Qui tam cases, also known as whistleblower lawsuits, are becoming increasingly prevalent in California. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Department of Justice, California has seen a 40% increase in the number of qui tam cases filed in the past five years alone.
Qui tam cases are unique in that they allow private individuals, known as whistleblowers, to sue on behalf of the government for false claims or fraud committed against government programs or contracts. The government then has the option to intervene and take over the case, or to decline and allow the whistleblower to pursue the case independently.
One of the most common types of qui tam cases in California is healthcare fraud. This can include billing for services that were not provided, upcoding (billing for a more expensive service than was actually performed), or kickbacks to doctors for referring patients to a particular facility or service. California’s large population and high healthcare costs make it a prime target for such fraud.
Another area where qui tam cases are frequently filed in California is in the defense industry. Whistleblowers in this industry may bring forward cases involving false claims related to government contracts for weapons systems or other military equipment.
Under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers can receive a reward of between 15-30% of the amount recovered by the government if the case is successful. This can be a significant incentive for individuals to come forward with information about fraud or false claims.
Overall, the increase in qui tam cases in California highlights the important role that whistleblowers play in holding companies and individuals accountable for fraud and false claims against the government. With the potential for significant rewards, it is likely that qui tam cases will continue to rise in California and across the country.
If you have witnessed an illegal practice involving fraud against a government program, it is important to speak with an experienced qui tam attorney. Salusky Law Group specializes in qui tam cases and can provide guidance on your legal options and the potential rewards for coming forward with information.
Contact Salusky Law Group
Don’t hesitate to contact Salusky Law Group at (562) 855-0004 or visit their website at www.saluskylawgroup.com for a free and confidential consultation. Together, we can help hold companies and individuals accountable for fraud against the government and protect the public interest.