False Claims Lawyer Hunterdon County — Federal Defense Strategy
A False Claims Act (FCA) investigation in Hunterdon County, NJ, is a serious federal matter under 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733, carrying severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strategic defense for individuals and entities facing allegations of submitting false claims to the government.
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 prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which has jurisdiction over Hunterdon County. The statute imposes liability on any person who knowingly submits a false or fraudulent claim for payment to the federal government. “Knowingly” is defined broadly to include acting in deliberate ignorance or reckless disregard of the truth.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage | 31 U.S.C. § 3729
Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, founded the practice in 1997. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial records and data often central to FCA allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, refer to the U.S. Code: 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures in New Jersey, consult the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Strategic Defense for False Claims Act Allegations
Defending against an FCA suit, including a qui tam (whistleblower) action, requires immediate and precise action. In the District of New Jersey, the procedural field is critical. The government or a relator (whistleblower) files a complaint under seal, initiating a period of intense government investigation before any public disclosure.
- Immediate Legal Consultation: Seek counsel the moment you suspect an investigation. Early attorney involvement is important for shaping the defense narrative.
- Internal Investigation & Document Preservation: Conduct a privileged internal review to understand the allegations and implement a legal hold to preserve all relevant documents and electronic data.
- Engage with Prosecutors: Your attorney will communicate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present your defense, challenge the merits of the case, and argue for non-intervention or dismissal.
- Develop a Multi-Pronged Defense: Build defenses such as lack of scienter (knowledge), the government’s prior knowledge of the alleged fraud, or that the claims were not materially false.
- Negotiation or Litigation: Pursue settlement negotiations to minimize exposure or prepare for vigorous litigation, including challenging the complaint and pursuing discovery.
Potential Penalties Under the False Claims Act
In Hunterdon County, a federal False Claims Act violation carries mandatory financial penalties and potential exclusion from federal programs.
| Violation | Classification | Financial Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knowingly submitting a false claim | Civil Federal Violation | Civil penalty of $13,508 to $27,018 per claim, plus 3x the government’s damages. | Debarment from federal contracts, program exclusion, reputational harm. |
| Conspiracy to violate the FCA | Civil Federal Violation | Same financial penalties apply. | Joint and several liability with co-conspirators. |
| Retaliation against a whistleblower | Separate Cause of Action | 2x back pay, special damages, reinstatement. | Compensatory damages for emotional distress. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal defense. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and financial forensics. We have a documented record of handling high-stakes investigations and building defenses that address both the legal and factual details of FCA cases.
Our Approach to Your Case
We approach every False Claims Act defense with a focus on early case assessment and strategic positioning. Our team, led by Mr. Sris, examines the allegations for weaknesses in the government’s proof of knowledge and materiality. We work collaboratively to develop a defense that may involve motion practice to dismiss, aggressive settlement negotiations, or, if necessary, trial preparation. Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, contributes valuable prosecutorial insight to our defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Hunterdon County False Claims Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Hunterdon County, including Flemington, Clinton, and Lambertville. We are accessible via I-78, Route 31, and Route 202. If you need a False Claims lawyer Hunterdon County residents trust for federal defense, contact us for a confidential consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
False Claims Act Defense FAQs
What is a qui tam lawsuit?
It is a provision of the False Claims Act that allows a private individual (the “relator” or whistleblower) to file a lawsuit on behalf of the government against an entity alleged to have defrauded federal programs. The government then investigates and decides whether to intervene and take over the case.
Do I need a federal false claims defense lawyer Hunterdon County if the government hasn’t contacted me?
Yes, proactive counsel is essential. Qui tam complaints are filed under seal, meaning you may be unaware of an ongoing investigation for months or years. An experienced federal false claims defense lawyer Hunterdon County can monitor risks and prepare a defense strategy before the case becomes public.
What should I do if served with a False Claims Act complaint?
Immediately contact a defense attorney. Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your lawyer. The complaint will have a deadline to respond, and missing it can result in a default judgment. Your attorney will analyze the allegations and formulate a legal response.
Can a qui tam defense lawyer Hunterdon County help if I am the whistleblower?
Yes. While our firm primarily focuses on defense, the legal field for whistleblowers is demanding. A qualified attorney can counsel potential relators on the process, protections against retaliation, and the requirements for successfully bringing a qui tam action.
What are the most common defenses to a False Claims Act allegation?
Key defenses include lack of scienter (proving you did not “knowingly” submit a false claim), lack of materiality (the falsehood did not influence the payment decision), and the government’s prior knowledge of the alleged issues. Each defense requires a detailed factual and legal analysis.
Related Practice Areas: Explore our Federal Criminal Defense and Business Law services in Hunterdon County. For statewide information, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding False Claims Act defense.
If you want to see how a Hunterdon County case fits into the wider process, our page on false claims lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Hunterdon 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 Hunterdon County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ 08822, telephone (908) 824-9750, 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 Hunterdon 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: Hunterdon County NJ lawyers directory · False Claims Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · False Claims Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · False Claims Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.