5 Things to Consider Before Consulting a Texas Qui Tam Attorney
Qui tam literally means “in the name of the king.” Under the False Claims Act, qui tam allows a relator (persons or entities) with evidence of fraud against federal programs or contracts to sue the wrongdoer on behalf of the United States Government.
Whistleblowers can put their career, reputation, and sometimes even physical safety in jeopardy to report fraud or criminal violations. Potential risks, rewards, and the eventual outcome of reporting fraud or wrongdoing depends on the procedures set forth in over 50 different federal laws and various state laws. The level of protection afforded a whistleblower depends on what you disclose, to whom, and how well you are prepared. To protect yourself, it is wise to know your legal rights and seek a highly qualified Houston Qui Tam Attorney.
1. Do Texas Whistleblowers Have a Deadline?
It is imperative that fraud is reported without delay as all whistleblower laws have statutes of limitation. If you miss the deadline, you may automatically lose your case simply due to the passage of time. There are also monetary rewards for being the first to file a claim.
Whistleblower claims are serious allegations and should not be pursued without the qualified guidance of a seasoned Texas whistleblower attorney.
2. What Defines Whistleblower Fraud?
It may seem obvious, but before reporting fraud or criminal activity it is imperative you verify you have valid fraudulent wrongdoing to report. Don’t put your career in jeopardy. Before you move forward, speak with a Texas Qui Tam attorney who is well-versed in fraud and whistleblower protection laws.
3. Should I Report Wrongdoing Directly to My Employer?
Many companies have put in place procedures for reporting fraud to encourage employee reporting of wrongdoing within the company. Choosing to report wrongdoing internally can have dire consequences, so be certain to learn about your rights by speaking with a Texas-qualified Qui Tam attorney before blowing the whistle. Employees risk losing their cases or even being convicted of crimes if they disclose confidential information in violation of the law. To ensure the full protection of Federal whistleblower laws, it is important that you seek guidance from an experienced whistleblower lawyer with a depth of expertise in financial fraud as well as the retaliation protection laws contained in the False Claims Act and the CFTC and SEC whistleblower programs.
4. Can a Foreign Citizen Report Fraud Against the U.S. Government?
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to report fraud and to be protected under Federal whistleblower laws. Citizens from countries outside of the U.S. have reported fraud or bribery and obtained millions in rewards. Many whistleblower laws have transnational applications including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the IRS tax law, and the False Claims Act.
5. What to Consider When Choosing a Texas Whistleblower Lawyer
If you are considering blowing the whistle, you are facing one of the toughest decisions you will ever make. It is imperative that you choose a law firm with the knowledge and experience to protect your reputation and your job, the resources to investigate your case, and with proven courtroom skills to successfully stand up to powerful corporations.
Contact the experienced Houston Whistleblower attorneys at Gregor Wynne Arney today at (832) 390-6244 to discuss your case.