False Claims Lawyer in Montgomery County, MD
A False Claims Act (FCA) allegation in Montgomery County is a serious federal matter. The law, 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733, allows the government and private whistleblowers (qui tam relators) to sue for treble damages and penalties. As a False Claims lawyer Montgomery County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and companies facing these complex federal investigations and lawsuits.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding the False Claims Act in Maryland
The federal False Claims Act is a primary tool for combating fraud against government programs. Violations include knowingly presenting a false claim for payment, making a false record to get a claim paid, or conspiring to defraud the government. Cases are often initiated by whistleblowers (qui tam relators) who file under seal. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, which includes the Greenbelt division handling Montgomery County cases, actively pursues these matters. A federal false claims defense lawyer Montgomery County must handle both the civil FCA and potential parallel criminal proceedings under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 287.
Key Government Resources
- 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733 (False Claims Act) – The official U.S. Code.
- U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Maryland – The prosecuting authority for federal cases in Maryland.
- Receive a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) or subpoena. This is often the first formal notice of a federal investigation.
- Conduct an internal investigation. A privileged internal review is essential to understand exposure and document compliance.
- Engage in pre-trial negotiations. This may involve disclosing findings to the DOJ to seek dismissal or negotiate a settlement before a formal complaint is unsealed.
- Litigate if necessary. If the case proceeds, defend against both the government and the whistleblower in U.S. District Court.
- Address parallel proceedings. Manage any related administrative actions (e.g., Medicare exclusion) or criminal investigations.
Potential Penalties in a Federal False Claims Case
In Montgomery County, a federal False Claims Act violation carries severe financial penalties, with damages tripled and per-claim penalties that quickly escalate into the millions.
| Violation | Classification | Financial Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| False Claim | Civil Federal Violation | Treble Damages + $13,508-$27,018 per claim* | Debarment, Corporate Integrity Agreement, Reputational Harm |
| Major Fraud Against U.S. (18 U.S.C. § 1031) | Federal Felony | Fines up to $1,000,000 (individual) / $5,000,000 (organization) | Up to 10 years imprisonment |
| Conspiracy to Defraud (18 U.S.C. § 371) | Federal Felony | Fines | Up to 5 years imprisonment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Penalty amounts are adjusted for inflation annually.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal matters. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally leads on intricate federal defense cases, including those arising under the False Claims Act. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial records and data often central to these investigations.
Case Results & Approach
Our approach to defending a False Claims Act case in Montgomery County involves immediate case assessment, strategic engagement with the Department of Justice, and, when possible, seeking early resolution to avoid the staggering costs of litigation. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in federal matters through meticulous preparation and negotiation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
For instance, in a related federal fraud matter, our team successfully negotiated a resolution that avoided criminal charges for a client, limiting exposure to a civil settlement. In another case involving complex financial allegations, our pre-trial advocacy led to a significant reduction in the government’s claimed damages.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Serving: Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “qui tam” lawsuit under the False Claims Act?
It is a lawsuit filed by a private whistleblower (the “relator”) on behalf of the government. The case is filed under seal, giving the DOJ time to investigate and decide whether to intervene. A qui tam defense lawyer Montgomery County can represent either the defendant or, in some cases, the whistleblower.
Can I go to jail for a False Claims Act violation?
It depends. The FCA itself is a civil statute, but related criminal laws (like 18 U.S.C. § 287) can apply. The DOJ often pursues parallel proceedings. A skilled federal false claims defense lawyer Montgomery County will work to resolve the matter civilly and avoid criminal charges.
What should I do if I receive a Civil Investigative Demand (CID)?
Do not ignore it. Contact an attorney immediately. A CID is a powerful investigative tool, and your response can significantly impact the case’s direction. An attorney can help negotiate the scope and protect privileged information.
How long does a federal False Claims Act case take?
These are complex cases. From the sealed whistleblower filing to resolution can take 2 to 5 years or more. The initial investigative phase after the government intervenes is critical and can last over a year.
What are the best defenses to a False Claims Act allegation?
Common defenses include lack of scienter (knowledge), the alleged misstatement was not material to the payment decision, or the claim was not actually false. Establishing a strong compliance program pre-dating the allegation is also a strong mitigating factor.
For more information, see our Maryland Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Prince George’s County. If you are facing other legal issues, we provide business law and civil litigation services in Montgomery County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If your case reaches beyond Montgomery County, our page on false claims charges across Maryland sets out what to look for at each stage.