Offering Qui Tam Defense Counsel In Texas And Nationwide

Whistleblower accusations can have profound implications. These accusations can often lead to criminal charges if whistleblowers or government agencies believe they have sufficient evidence. Plus, with the steep penalties that can come with white collar criminal charges, you need a comprehensive defense strategy to protect your freedom, future and professional reputation.

Attorney Dan C. Guthrie Jr. from Guthrie PLLC has represented parties on both sides of Qui Tam cases. He has a thorough understanding of how these cases work. His ability to understand both sides’ interests, motivations and weaknesses can give his clients a unique and competitive advantage.

What Is Qui Tam?

Qui Tam is a provision under the False Claims Act that allows whistleblowers to sue an organization on behalf of the government. People typically file a Qui Tam claim if they believe their organization is defrauding the government. Qui Tam claims can be complicated because the people who file them don’t always need substantial evidence for the government to recognize the claim. So, the government decided to take the person’s claim seriously. In that case, it can lead to a lengthy and bureaucratic legal dispute.

Why Someone Might “Blow The Whistle” On You

Whistleblowers don’t have a single motivating factor. There can be many reasons why they decide to sound the alarms. Here are a few examples:

• They believe they witnessed fraudulent activity.
• They want to shield themselves from potential liability.
• They think that whistleblowing will protect public interests.
• They work in a profession with a strong moral or ethical code.

You should not take accusations of fraud or illegal behavior lightly. It’s vital that you seek counsel that can offer an experienced defense against these allegations. Mr. Guthrie can help you handle these matters effectively and privately. Call him at 214-953-1000 to start working on your case today.

What Does The Qui Tam Process Look Like?

Here’s how people initiate these claims:

• The whistleblower files a complaint: After witnessing what they believe is fraudulent activity, the whistleblower, referred to as a “realtor,” files a formal complaint in a U.S. District Court. Whistleblowers must file the claim privately, and the claim must remain confidential for at least two months. The whistleblower cannot tell anyone else about the complaint; they remain the only source of information on the matter. They also can’t submit any new information after submitting their complaint.
• The whistleblower submits an additional statement: Once the whistleblower files the claim, they must also provide a statement detailing any information or evidence supporting their Qui Tam lawsuit.
• The government evaluates the whistleblower’s claim: Once whistleblowers file the claim and submit their additional evidence, the government agency with potential interest in the allegation evaluates the complaint and the evidence provided by the whistleblower. From there, the government evaluates whether or not it needs to intervene.

If whistleblowers win their case against a defendant, they can collect a certain percentage of damages collected by the government. However, that’s if the government intervenes in the case. If the government doesn’t intervene, the whistleblower can still pursue the case on their own merit.

Understanding the basics of Qui Tam claims can help you know what to expect. Mr. Guthrie can give you additional information to make strategic and effective decisions.

Seek A Strong Defense Against Whistleblower Accusations

In today’s fragile and litigious business climate, enduring whistleblower accusations and Qui Tam lawsuits can feel threatening and damaging. If you face these accusations, lawyer Dan C. Guthrie Jr. is here to help.

Schedule a consultation with him today by calling 214-953-1000 or completing the firm’s online contact form.