Health Care Fraud Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Health care fraud in Howard County is a serious federal and state offense involving penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines exceeding $250,000 per count. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands how state and federal agencies build these complex cases. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Health Care Fraud Charges in Maryland
Health care fraud involves knowingly and willfully executing a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from such a program by false pretenses. In Maryland, these cases are prosecuted under both federal statute (18 U.S.C. § 1347) and state law (Md. Code, Crim. Law § 8-501 et seq.). The charges often stem from allegations of improper billing practices, kickbacks, upcoding, billing for services not rendered, or falsifying patient records.
Last verified: April 2026 | Howard County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who brings that insider perspective to building a defense. We analyze the specific intent element—the “knowingly and willfully” standard—which is often the most vulnerable point for the prosecution to prove.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of Maryland’s health care fraud statutes, you can review Md. Code, Crim. Law § 8-501 (official Maryland General Assembly site). For federal court procedures in Maryland, refer to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
The Howard County Investigation & Defense Process
Investigations in Howard County often involve multiple agencies, including the Maryland Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), the FBI, and the Office of Inspector General (OIG). These investigations are document-intensive and can take months or years before charges are filed. Early intervention by a health care fraud lawyer Howard County is critical.
- Initial Case Assessment: We immediately secure all relevant billing records, patient files, and communications to conduct an internal audit.
- Government Engagement: If contacted by investigators, we counsel you on your rights and often act as the intermediary to prevent self-incrimination.
- experienced Consultation: We engage medical billing and coding experts to review practices and prepare authoritative analyses to challenge the government’s claims.
- Motion Practice: We file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the indictment or to suppress evidence obtained improperly.
- Trial or Resolution: We prepare for a rigorous trial while simultaneously evaluating any potential for a negotiated resolution that minimizes penalties.
Potential Penalties for Health Care Fraud Convictions
In Howard County, a federal health care fraud conviction carries a maximum of 10 years in prison, but if the fraud results in serious bodily injury, the maximum increases to 20 years, and if it results in death, a life sentence is possible.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Fraud (Federal) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000+ | Mandatory exclusion from Medicare/Medicaid | Asset forfeiture, restitution |
| Fraud Causing Injury | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $500,000+ | Permanent license revocation | Enhanced restitution |
| State Medicaid Fraud | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $100,000 | Exclusion from state programs | Civil penalties up to 3x damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex white-collar and fraud cases. Mr. Sris, as a former prosecutor, provides invaluable insight into the tactics used by the government. We understand that a health care fraud lawyer Howard County must be adept at both federal court procedure and the intricate details of medical billing.
Documented Case Results
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex fraud cases. Our approach involves meticulous document review and challenging the government’s evidence on intent and knowledge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Howard County Defense Services
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
We serve clients throughout Howard County, including near the Howard County Circuit Court in Ellicott City, Columbia, and surrounding communities. If you are searching for a “medical billing fraud defense lawyer Howard County” or a “healthcare scheme charge lawyer Howard County,” our team is accessible for an urgent consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common type of health care fraud charge in Howard County?
It depends. The most frequent allegations involve improper billing, such as upcoding (billing for a more expensive service than performed) or billing for services not rendered. Federal and state investigators also aggressively pursue kickback and Stark Law violations involving referrals.
Will I lose my medical license if I am charged?
Not automatically, but it is a severe risk. A conviction typically triggers mandatory exclusion from federal health programs (Medicare/Medicaid) and leads to state licensing board disciplinary action, often resulting in suspension or revocation. An experienced health care fraud lawyer Howard County can negotiate to protect your license as part of a resolution.
What agencies investigate health care fraud in Maryland?
The primary agencies are the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Maryland Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU). These agencies often work together on joint task forces.
Can I negotiate a settlement before being indicted?
Yes. In many cases, it is possible to engage in pre-indictment negotiations, often through a civil settlement and Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) to avoid criminal charges. This requires skilled negotiation by a lawyer familiar with both the civil and criminal aspects of these cases.
How long does a federal health care fraud case take?
From investigation to resolution, a case can take anywhere from 18 months to several years. The investigation phase is often lengthy, followed by pre-trial motions and potential plea negotiations. A trial, if necessary, adds significant time.
Disclaimer: Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.