Jonathan Kroner Law Office

Introduction

Introduction
What is a "False Claim"?
Can a Private Individual Receive an Award for "Blowing the Whistle"?

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Introduction

Terry's Story
Terry* was working for a large government contractor, she knew they were cheating the government--she estimated ten million dollars or more, and she was afraid that if she said something she would probably lose her job.
"But I'm just as secretary, what can I do?"
I answered, "That's why Abraham Lincoln wrote the law. There are many out there like you," I told her, "they know that what is being done is wrong but they don't know what to do about it."
We don't know how this story will end, but we estimate that Terry could receive millions if the United States recovers all the money and penalties it is owed. Not bad for a person willing to speak up for what she knows is right.
*"Terry" is fictitious. Read more about real cases here. Recent Cases and Big Cases.

The Federal and Florida False Claims Acts allow individuals (whistleblowers) to report fraud against the government. This ensures that our governments get the products and services they pay for. They provide legal rights to those who "blow the whistle" on fraud and reward whistleblowers a portion of the money that these governments recover from corrupt government contractors.

In general, the Federal False Claims Act (FCA) covers fraud involving any federally funded contract, grant or program, with the exception of tax fraud.

What is a "False Claim"?

A false claim is a type of fraud. Fraud under the Federal False Claims Act means that a company, contractor, city or county has knowingly presented a false claim for payment to the United States. They used the United States' money for something other than that for which it was provided. In short--it is a lie about how money is spent. See, Detailed Examples. The fraud can occur wherever federal or Florida monies are used to purchase services or goods.

Can a Private Individual Receive an $ Award for "Blowing the Whistle"?

Yes. But only by filing a False Claims Act lawsuit. Merely informing the government will not result in any reward and may leave the person open to retaliation without the protection of the statute and its rewards. See, Don't Whistleblowers risk getting fired?