Tag Archives: protection for whistleblowers

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Blog Category| Schleifman Law, PLC, Whistleblower Law

Whistle blowing laws and protection in Virginia

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How much do you know about federal whistleblower law in Virginia? Is there protection available for whistleblowers? As a matter of fact, there is no general whistleblower protection statute in Virginia, but that doesn’t mean that you cannot be protected under Virginia law when in such a situation. In fact, the Federal Government encourages and incentivizes legitimate whistle blowing. Virginia law ensures that whistleblowers, who suffer retaliation as a result of whistle blowing, are entitled to recover under the False Claims Act.

Let’s take a look at the facts about whistle blowing law and the process involved:

  • The Federal False Claims Act entitles all whistle blowers to file a law suit against wrongdoers who are committing fraud against the Federal Government.
  • The personal details of the whistle blower are kept private and confidential during all investigations.
  • After prosecution proceedings have been carried out and a win has achieved in favor of the government, the whistle blower can be awarded between 15% and 30% of the settlement or verdict amount.

This particular type of whistleblower case is referred to as a “Qui Tam” lawsuit. It is where whistle blowers are rewarded for recovering money that rightfully belongs to the government.

Experienced Qui Tam lawyers, or whistleblower lawyers, are typically used when reporting fraud against the federal or state government. These lawyers are expected to advise you on your legal rights and ensure that your identity and personal details are protected during the process.

Schleifman Law provides legal advice on whistle blowing

If you are ready to blow the whistle on fraudulent activity against the federal or state government, ensure that you obtain legal advice from one of our whistleblower attorneys. We will advise you on the process involved and ensure that we are there to represent you every step of the way.

For more information and advice on whistle blowing laws and protection for whistle blowers in Virginia, contact us via email or telephone at Schleifman Law today.

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Blog Category| Schleifman Law, PLC, False Claims Act, Whistleblower, Qui Tam

What is a Qui Tam lawsuit?

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The False Claims Act is a law which imposes liability on any person or company that seeks to defraud the U.S government. Under the Act, there is a provision known as Qui Tam, which is one of the most recognized whistleblowing laws in the world. It enables any person who has knowledge that a corporation or a person is defrauding the government to blow the whistle and enjoy protection.

Qui Tam lawsuits are a common feature on the corridors of justice, but surprisingly the public is largely unaware of what they entail. A study by National Law Review shows 65% of whistleblowers do not understand they have protection under the False Claims Act.

Background to Qui Tam

In order to take advantage of Qui Tam, it is imperative to get deeper insight on the writ. The term originates from Medieval Europe and loosely translates to “one who sues on behalf of the king as well as for himself.” This protection for whistleblowers has helped stop many cases of fraud in major programs such as Medicare and defense contracts, among others.

A Qui Tam lawsuit will apply if you know about someone or a company that has knowingly presented fraudulent pay claims, used false records to access a federal benefit, or knowingly used a false document to avoid, conceal or reduce obligation to pay money to the federal government.

The Federal Claims Act under which Qui Tam lawsuits fall rewards the whistle blower while also guaranteeing job protection. If you have evidence of fraud in any federal program, you need to hire a reliable whistleblower attorney who will help file your case. The government will also evaluate the case and decide whether to join the case or not.

Whatever the decision of the government you can still continue as a private plaintiff. Your whistleblower attorney comes in handy because they have the expertise and experience in handling these lawsuits. The whistle blower is entitled to 15 to 25% of recovered federal funds and you will also enjoy protection against victimization by your employer.

Federal funds are meant to benefit everyone in society. If you are aware of a situation where such funds are being misused or lost, it is time to capitalize on the protection and financial benefits offered by Federal whistleblower law.

Contact us today for more information.