Pharmaceutical whistleblowers are saving lives and helping the federal government recoup hundreds of millions of dollars fraudulently obtained by pharmaceutical companies. Pharmaceutical frauds include:
- Fraudulent billing practices
- The use of illegal tactics
- Promoting false information
Pharmaceutical whistleblower claims usually fall under the False Claims Act, which allows lawsuits known as “qui tam” suits against corporations and individuals who have defrauded the federal government. The lawsuit allows the whistleblower to recover government losses. The matter is filed under seal, which means that it is not publicly disclosed. During this time period, the government investigates the fraud allegations. The seal is in place for 60 days, but may be extended longer while the government is conducting its investigation.
Upon conclusion of the investigation, the government will decide whether to intervene or become a party to the lawsuit. Should the government become a party, the litigation is handled jointly by the whistleblower’s attorney and the government. Should the government decline to intervene, the whistleblower may proceed without government intervention.
The whistleblower must be the first to raise allegations in order to collect a reward. Under the FCA, whistleblowers may be entitled from 15 to 30 percent of the government’s recovery. Under statutory provisions, the defendant of the whistleblower’s claim may also be responsible for the whistleblower’s attorney fees and case-related expenses.
Lawyers Who Have Successfully Handled High-Profile Cases
Our lawyers have represented some of the most high-profile whistleblower cases in Texas and the nation in recent years, including Sherron Watkins, the whistleblower who first brought to light corporate malfeasance at Enron.
Contact A Houston Pharmaceutical Whistleblower Lawyer
Reporting fraud should be rewarding, not punitive. As a whistleblower, you have rights. Rights that we will protect with dedication and diligence. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced lawyer regarding a pharmaceutical whistleblower case, please contact us. You can also call us toll-free at 888-659-8742 or locally at 713-234-1416.
