False Claims Lawyer Wicomico County, MD — Federal Defense
A False Claims Act (FCA) investigation in Wicomico County is a serious federal matter under 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733, carrying penalties of up to three times the government’s damages plus per-claim fines. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and contractors facing allegations of submitting false claims to government programs.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Federal False Claims Act Statute in Maryland
The federal False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733) is the primary law used to combat fraud against the United States government. It imposes liability on any person who knowingly submits a false claim for payment, uses a false record to get a claim paid, or conspires to defraud the government. In Maryland, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and can involve federal agencies like the FBI, HHS-OIG, or DCIS. The law includes a qui tam provision that allows private individuals (whistleblowers) to file suits on behalf of the government, which can lead to complex litigation for the named defendant.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see the U.S. Code, Title 31, Chapter 37 (False Claims). For local court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
- Receive a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) or subpoena. This is often the first formal notice of a federal investigation.
- Conduct an internal audit. With counsel, review the contracts, billing records, and communications at issue.
- Decide on cooperation. Determine the strategy for responding to the government, which may involve disclosing findings.
- Negotiate a resolution. This could be a settlement, a deferred prosecution agreement, or preparing for litigation.
- Litigate if necessary. Defend against the claims at trial in U.S. District Court.
Penalties and Consequences for False Claims
In Wicomico County, a federal false claims violation can result in treble damages, civil penalties of $13,508 to $27,018 per false claim, debarment from government contracts, and potential parallel criminal charges.
| Violation | Classification | Financial Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knowingly submitting a false claim | Civil Federal Violation | Treble damages + per-claim penalty | Debarment; Corporate Integrity Agreement |
| Conspiracy to violate the FCA | Civil Federal Violation | Same as above | Joint & several liability |
| Reverse false claims (concealing an obligation) | Civil Federal Violation | Same as above | Whistleblower retaliation claims |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We approach federal false claims defense with a focus on the intricate financial and contractual details that these cases demand. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting complex billing and procurement records.
Case Results and Approach
While specific results for Wicomico County are not listed, the firm’s approach to federal defense is collaborative. Mr. Sris works closely with Of Counsel attorneys who have deep experience in federal courts. For instance, in a related federal matter, the team secured a dismissal of misdemeanor sex abuse charges in D.C. Superior Court. We apply the same rigorous, detail-oriented defense strategy to false claims cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Lawyer Near Wicomico County
Our Maryland location serves clients in Wicomico County, including Salisbury, Fruitland, and Delmar. We are accessible via Route 50 and Route 13.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
False Claims Act Defense FAQs
What is a “qui tam” lawsuit?
It is a whistleblower lawsuit. A private person (the “relator”) files a False Claims Act case under seal on the government’s behalf. If the government recovers money, the whistleblower may receive a share. As a defendant, you need a qui tam defense lawyer Wicomico County who understands how to challenge the relator’s standing and allegations.
Can I go to jail for a False Claims Act violation?
The FCA itself is a civil statute. However, the underlying conduct (e.g., fraud, conspiracy) often violates criminal laws like 18 U.S.C. § 287 or § 371. The DOJ frequently pursues parallel criminal and civil proceedings, making early defense coordination with a federal false claims defense lawyer Wicomico County essential to manage both risks.
What is the first step if I am under investigation?
It depends. If you receive a CID or subpoena, do not respond without counsel. Contact a lawyer immediately to assess the scope, preserve attorney-client privilege for an internal review, and develop a strategy for engaging with the government. The first response can significantly influence the direction of the case.
What are common defenses to a false claims allegation?
Several defenses may apply: lack of scienter (knowledge), the alleged false statement was not material to the government’s payment decision, the claim was not actually false, or the government already knew about the issue. A False Claims lawyer Wicomico County can evaluate which defenses are strongest based on the evidence.
How long does a federal false claims case take?
From investigation to resolution, these cases often take 1 to 3 years or more. The timeline includes the government’s investigation period, settlement negotiations, and, if necessary, litigation through discovery, motions, and potentially trial.
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Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.