False Claims Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
A False Claims Act (FCA) investigation in Gloucester County, New Jersey, is a serious federal matter prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and entities facing allegations under 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733.
Understanding the False Claims Act in New Jersey
The federal False Claims Act is the government’s primary tool for combating fraud against federal programs. In New Jersey, these cases are often brought in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which has jurisdiction over Gloucester County. The statute imposes liability on any person who knowingly submits a false claim for payment to the federal government or knowingly makes a false statement to get a false claim paid. Penalties are severe, including treble damages and civil penalties for each violation.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal False Claims Act, refer to 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Local Procedure for False Claims Act Cases
In Gloucester County, a False Claims Act case typically begins with a whistleblower (relator) filing a qui tam lawsuit under seal. The U.S. Department of Justice then investigates the allegations, often with assistance from agencies like the FBI or HHS-OIG. If the government intervenes, the case proceeds aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, based in Newark and Camden, has a dedicated Civil Division that handles these interventions. The defense must handle discovery, often involving vast electronic records, and prepare for the possibility of parallel criminal proceedings.
- Initial Investigation & Sealed Complaint: A whistleblower files a qui tam complaint under seal. The DOJ investigates, often issuing subpoenas for documents and testimony.
- Government Intervention Decision: The DOJ decides whether to intervene and take over the case or decline and allow the whistleblower to proceed alone.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: If the case proceeds, extensive discovery follows. Defense counsel files motions to dismiss, often challenging the “materiality” and “scienter” (knowledge) elements.
- Settlement Negotiations or Trial: Most FCA cases settle. If not, the case proceeds to trial in federal court, where penalties can be determined by a judge or jury.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In federal court for Gloucester County, a False Claims Act violation carries severe financial penalties and can lead to exclusion from federal healthcare programs.
| Violation | Classification | Financial Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knowingly submitting a false claim | Civil Federal Violation | Treble damages + $13,508-$27,018 per claim* | Debarment/exclusion from Medicare/Medicaid, corporate integrity agreements, reputational harm. |
| Conspiracy to violate the FCA | Civil Federal Violation | Same as above | Potential parallel criminal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 286 (Conspiracy to Defraud the Government). |
| Making false statements | Civil Federal Violation | Same as above | Whistleblower (relator) may be entitled to 15-30% of the recovery. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Penalty amounts are adjusted for inflation annually.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal matters. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of federal investigative tactics and courtroom strategy. We have a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious federal allegations. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, maintains a selective caseload to ensure direct, hands-on involvement in every False Claims lawyer Gloucester County case we accept.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Gloucester County for this niche area are not publicly listed, our firm’s foundational experience in federal criminal and civil defense informs our federal false claims defense lawyer Gloucester County practice. We have successfully defended clients in federal courts across multiple districts against allegations of fraud, conspiracy, and other white-collar crimes. Every case is defended aggressively, with a focus on challenging the government’s evidence on knowledge, materiality, and damages.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County False Claims Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, and Monroe Township. We are accessible via I-295 and Route 55. If you need a qui tam defense lawyer Gloucester County near the Gloucester County Courthouse or are facing a federal investigation, we are available to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: False Claims Act Defense
What is a “qui tam” lawsuit?
Yes. A qui tam lawsuit is a provision of the False Claims Act that allows a private individual (the whistleblower or “relator”) to file a lawsuit on behalf of the government against an entity or person alleged to have defrauded federal programs. If successful, the whistleblower receives a share of the recovery.
Can I go to jail for a False Claims Act violation?
The False Claims Act itself is a civil statute, so it does not carry jail time. However, the underlying conduct that forms the basis of a false claim (e.g., making false statements, mail/wire fraud) often violates criminal statutes. The Department of Justice frequently pursues parallel criminal and civil cases, meaning you could face criminal charges with potential imprisonment based on the same facts.
What does “knowingly” mean under the False Claims Act?
It depends. The FCA defines “knowingly” broadly. It includes not only actual knowledge of falsity but also acting in “deliberate ignorance” of the truth or in “reckless disregard” of the truth. You do not need to have specific intent to defraud to be found liable. This broad standard is a primary reason you need an experienced False Claims lawyer Gloucester County.
What should I do if I receive a federal subpoena related to a healthcare or government contract?
Immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Do not destroy any documents or discuss the matter with colleagues outside of seeking legal counsel. A subpoena is often the first visible sign of a federal investigation. An attorney can help you understand the scope, negotiate compliance, and advise you on your rights during any interviews or testimony.
How long does a False Claims Act case take?
It depends on the the issues involved. The initial qui tam complaint remains under seal for at least 60 days while the government investigates, but extensions are common, and the seal can last years. If the government intervenes, the case can take 2-4 years or more to reach a resolution through settlement or trial. The timeline is heavily influenced by the amount of documents and data involved.
Related Legal Services in Gloucester County
If you are facing federal allegations, you may also need to explore related defenses. Our firm also handles federal business fraud and other federal criminal charges. For a broader view of our federal practice, visit our New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Gloucester County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on false claims cases in Virginia explains each stage.
Your case in Gloucester County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Gloucester County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · False Claims Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · False Claims Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · False Claims Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.