Rockville Health Care Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Health care fraud in Rockville is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison per count. If you are under investigation for medical billing fraud or a healthcare scheme, you need a lawyer who understands the complex federal statutes and local enforcement. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Health Care Fraud Under Federal Law?
The federal statute defining health care fraud is 18 U.S.C. § 1347. This law makes it a crime to knowingly and willfully execute, or attempt to execute, a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property owned by such a program through false pretenses. This includes a wide range of activities, from billing for services not rendered to upcoding and kickback arrangements.
Last verified: March 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has the depth of experience necessary to handle the intricate financial and legal details of federal fraud cases. A health care fraud lawyer Rockville must be prepared to counter aggressive federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Official Legal Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 1347 – Health Care Fraud (Legal Information Institute)
- U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland
Defending Against Medical Billing Fraud and Healthcare Schemes in Rockville
Federal investigations often begin with a subpoena or search warrant. Prosecutors may allege a pattern of fraudulent billing, such as charging for medically unnecessary services or falsifying patient records. As a medical billing fraud defense lawyer Rockville, we scrutinize every piece of evidence, challenge the government’s interpretation of “intent,” and work to negotiate with agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) before an indictment is filed.
- Receive initial contact from federal agents or a subpoena.
- Immediately secure legal counsel to protect your rights during any interviews.
- Your attorney conducts a pre-indictment investigation and analysis of billing records.
- Engage in negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek dismissal or reduced charges.
- If indicted, prepare a vigorous defense focusing on lack of intent or errors in documentation.
- Explore all litigation and settlement options, including civil False Claims Act resolutions.
Potential Penalties for Health Care Fraud Convictions
In Rockville, a federal health care fraud conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, and if the violation results in serious bodily injury, up to 20 years. Fines can be substantial, and restitution is mandatory.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Care Fraud | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Mandatory restitution, exclusion from federal health programs, asset forfeiture |
| Health Care Fraud Causing Serious Bodily Injury | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Same as above, with enhanced penalties |
| Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349) | Federal Felony | Same as underlying fraud | Same as underlying fraud | Broad liability for all acts of co-conspirators |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, we have a documented record of handling complex federal cases. Our approach is direct and strategic, focusing on the specific allegations you face. We understand that a healthcare scheme charge lawyer Rockville must be adept at both negotiation and trial litigation in federal court.
Documented Case Experience
Our firm has extensive experience defending against serious federal and state charges. For instance, we have secured dismissals in cases involving allegations of sex abuse and child pornography in Maryland courts. In one matter, a charge for Promote/Distribute Child Pornography under Maryland law was resolved with a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal). In another, a possession charge resulted in a suspended sentence and probation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Rockville Federal Defense Lawyers
If you are under investigation or have been charged, time is of the essence. Our lawyers provide 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step if I’m contacted about a health care fraud investigation?
Do not speak to investigators. The first step is to immediately contact a health care fraud lawyer Rockville. Anything you say can be used against you. Your attorney will communicate on your behalf and work to understand the scope of the inquiry before you make any statements.
Can I go to jail for a billing error?
It depends. Prosecutors must prove you acted “knowingly and willfully.” Honest mistakes or clerical errors are not criminal. A strong defense often focuses on demonstrating the lack of criminal intent, which is where an experienced medical billing fraud defense lawyer Rockville is essential to analyze your records and practices.
What agencies investigate health care fraud in Maryland?
Multiple agencies can be involved, including the FBI, HHS-OIG, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. A healthcare scheme charge lawyer Rockville must be familiar with the protocols and priorities of each of these entities.
What are the collateral consequences of a conviction?
Beyond prison and fines, consequences include mandatory exclusion from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other federal health care programs. This can effectively end a medical professional’s career. You may also face loss of professional licenses and civil lawsuits under the False Claims Act.
Is health care fraud only a federal crime?
No. Maryland has its own state laws prohibiting Medicaid fraud and other related offenses. You can face parallel state and federal prosecutions for the same conduct. A full defense strategy must address both potential jurisdictions.