Health Care Fraud Lawyer Henrico County — Federal Defense Strategy
Health care fraud is a serious federal crime prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Health Care Fraud lawyer Henrico County with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and entities facing these complex federal allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Health Care Fraud Law
Health care fraud involves knowingly and willfully executing a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, like Medicare or Medicaid, or to obtain money or property from such a program through false pretenses. The primary federal statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1347. This is distinct from state-level medical billing issues and is investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, HHS-OIG, and the Department of Justice. A conviction can result in decades in federal prison, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution. Defending against these charges requires understanding federal procedure, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and the specific evidence protocols used by federal prosecutors.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal health care fraud statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1347 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court serving Henrico County, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Defense Insight for Henrico County
Health care fraud cases affecting Henrico County residents or businesses are typically prosecuted in the Richmond Division of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA). The EDVA is known for its fast-paced “Rocket Docket,” meaning cases move quickly from indictment to resolution. Federal prosecutors in this district often pursue aggressive charges, including conspiracy (18 U.S.C. § 1349), which can significantly increase potential penalties. Early intervention by a defense team familiar with negotiating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office is critical.
- Secure immediate legal counsel upon learning of an investigation or receiving a target letter.
- Conduct an internal case assessment to understand the government’s likely evidence and theory.
- Engage in pre-indictment discussions with federal prosecutors to potentially avoid charges or narrow their scope.
- If indicted, file strategic pretrial motions challenging the sufficiency of the indictment or seeking to suppress evidence.
- Prepare for either a negotiated plea agreement under the Sentencing Guidelines or a vigorous trial defense.
- Address sentencing considerations, including advocating for downward departures and preparing for restitution orders.
Potential Penalties for Federal Health Care Fraud
In federal court, health care fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 can result in up to 10 years imprisonment per count, or up to 20 years if the violation results in serious bodily injury, and life imprisonment if it results in death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Restitution, forfeiture, exclusion from federal programs, permanent criminal record. |
| Health Care Fraud Causing Serious Injury | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | All of the above, plus enhanced sentencing under guidelines. |
| Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349) | Federal Felony | Same as underlying fraud | Same as underlying fraud | All conspirators liable for foreseeable acts of co-conspirators. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases. Our approach in federal health care fraud matters is collaborative, often involving attorneys like Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial and billing data central to these schemes. We understand the high stakes and work to protect our clients’ freedom and professional futures.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results in Henrico County for health care fraud are not listed, our firm’s strategic approach to federal defense is informed by extensive experience. We focus on challenging the government’s evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, and advocating for favorable sentencing outcomes. For instance, in other complex federal matters, our team has successfully negotiated for charges to be dropped or amended prior to indictment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804) 423-1382
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Henrico County, including those in Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. Facing a federal health care fraud investigation or indictment is daunting. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Health Care Fraud Defense FAQs
What should I do if I receive a target letter from a federal agency about a health care scheme?
Contact a health care scheme charge lawyer Henrico County immediately. Do not speak to agents without an attorney. A target letter means you are the focus of a grand jury investigation. An experienced federal lawyer can communicate with prosecutors on your behalf, potentially before an indictment is filed.
What is the difference between health care fraud and a simple billing error?
The key difference is intent. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly and willfully executed a scheme to defraud. An honest mistake or clerical error is not a federal crime. A medical billing fraud defense lawyer Henrico County can help demonstrate the absence of criminal intent to the government.
Can I go to prison for health care fraud?
Yes. A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 carries a maximum of 10 years in federal prison per count, with higher penalties if injury or death is involved. Federal sentences are served without parole.
What agencies investigate health care fraud?
Multiple agencies can be involved, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and state Medicaid Fraud Control Units (MFCUs).
Why do I need a specific Health Care Fraud lawyer Henrico County?
Federal health care fraud cases are prosecuted in specific federal districts. A lawyer familiar with the Eastern District of Virginia’s procedures, judges, and prosecutors can provide a significant strategic advantage in building your defense.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Henrico County and Business Law in Henrico County. To understand our broader federal practice, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.