Medicare Fraud Defense in Passaic County, New Jersey
Medicare fraud is a serious federal crime prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 1347. If you are under investigation for healthcare fraud in Passaic County, you need a strategic defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused representation for individuals and entities facing these complex federal charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Federal Medicare Fraud Statutes and Penalties
Medicare fraud involves knowingly submitting false claims or making misrepresentations to obtain federal healthcare program payments. The primary statute is the federal healthcare fraud statute, 18 U.S.C. § 1347. Violations are investigated by agencies like the FBI, HHS-OIG, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. These are felony charges that carry severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, mandatory restitution, and exclusion from participating in federal healthcare programs.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal healthcare fraud statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1347 (Healthcare fraud). For information on the federal district court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
The Passaic County Federal Court Process for Medicare Fraud
Federal Medicare fraud cases in Passaic County are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. The process typically begins with a grand jury investigation, which can lead to an indictment. Given the complexity of medical billing records and the resources of federal prosecutors, building a defense requires immediate and meticulous action from an experienced legal team familiar with both the law and the local federal court procedures.
- Secure experienced legal counsel immediately upon learning of an investigation or receiving a target letter.
- Conduct an internal case assessment and audit of the relevant billing practices and records.
- Engage with federal investigators and prosecutors, often through counsel, to present mitigating facts early.
- Negotiate for a favorable pre-trial resolution or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentence under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Federal Healthcare Fraud
In the federal system, a conviction for healthcare fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 can result in decades of imprisonment, fines into the millions, and other life-altering consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count; 20 years if injury results; life if death results | Up to $250,000 per count (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Restitution, forfeiture, program exclusion, probation |
| Aggravated Identity Theft (18 U.S.C. § 1028A) | Federal Felony (mandatory consecutive) | Mandatory 2 years consecutive to other sentences | Court discretion | Restitution |
| Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349) | Federal Felony | Same as underlying fraud | Same as underlying fraud | Restitution, forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Approach to Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a multi-state perspective to federal criminal defense. Our approach in complex Medicare fraud cases involves a detailed forensic analysis of financial and medical records, early engagement with federal authorities to shape the narrative, and leveraging our understanding of federal sentencing guidelines to seek optimal outcomes for our clients.
Documented Case Results
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide practice has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In federal courts, our strategic focus includes challenging the government’s evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, and advocating for sentences below the advisory guideline range. For instance, our team has experience achieving dismissals and favorable resolutions in complex fraud cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | New Jersey Location
Address: 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings by appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Passaic County and represents individuals at federal court. We are accessible via major highways including the Garden State Parkway and I-195. We provide a Medicare fraud lawyer near Passaic County for those facing federal investigations. We serve communities including Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, and Passaic City.
Medicare Fraud Defense FAQs
What agencies investigate Medicare fraud in New Jersey?
Multiple. Primary investigators include the FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and the New Jersey Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU).
Can I go to jail for a Medicare fraud charge?
Yes. Medicare fraud is a federal felony. Conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 carries a maximum of 10 years in prison per count, with significantly higher penalties if patient injury or death is involved.
What is the first step if I am under investigation?
It depends, but the most critical step is to secure an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. An attorney can communicate on your behalf, protect your rights, and begin building a defense strategy.
What is the difference between a fraud charge defense lawyer Passaic County and a general criminal lawyer?
A specialized fraud charge defense lawyer Passaic County focuses on the intricate laws, evidence, and procedures unique to financial and healthcare fraud cases, often at the federal level. This differs from a general criminal lawyer who may handle a broader range of state-level offenses.
Why do I need a white collar crime defense lawyer Passaic County for a Medicare case?
You need a white collar crime defense lawyer Passaic County because these attorneys possess specific experience in complex financial documents, federal statutes, sentencing guidelines, and the negotiation tactics required for non-violent financial crimes prosecuted in federal court.
What are common defenses to Medicare fraud allegations?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, good-faith errors in billing, insufficient evidence, entrapment, or challenging the legality of the investigation. The best defense strategy is highly fact-specific and requires a detailed review of all evidence.
Related Legal Services in Passaic County
If you are facing federal charges, you may need to explore other legal areas. Our firm also handles federal criminal defense and business law matters in Passaic County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding Medicare fraud defense.