False Claims lawyer Near Me
If you are searching for a false claims lawyer near you in Virginia or the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced federal defense representation for individuals facing allegations under the False Claims Act or related criminal statutes. Federal false claims cases — whether criminal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 287 or civil enforcement actions under 31 U.S.C. § 3729 — are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with substantial federal resources. An allegation that you defrauded the government can lead to severe consequences, including criminal penalties that may involve imprisonment, fines, and supervised release, as well as civil liability that can include treble damages and per‑claim monetary assessments. Having an attorney who concentrates in federal criminal matters, particularly one familiar with the procedures of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, can be critical to your defense. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have extensive combined legal experience handling federal white‑collar matters. To request a consultation, reach our location at (888) 437-7747.
What a Federal False Claims Case Means
Federal false claims allegations arise when the government asserts that an individual or entity knowingly submitted a false or fraudulent claim for payment to a federal agency. The criminal statute, 18 U.S.C. § 287, targets false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims made to any department or agency of the United States. The civil False Claims Act, codified at 31 U.S.C. § 3729, allows the government—and in some instances private whistleblowers through qui tam actions—to recover treble damages and civil penalties for each false claim. Cases can stem from healthcare billing (Medicare/Medicaid fraud), defense contractor overbilling, grant fraud, procurement fraud, or any situation where federal funds are involved. Because the federal government has broad investigative tools—including grand jury subpoenas, FBI and other agency investigations, and administrative audits—these matters often involve complex factual and legal issues. A conviction under § 287 is a felony and can result in incarceration; the actual sentence is determined under the federal sentencing guidelines and depends on the specific facts, the amount of loss, and the defendant’s role. The civil side may involve enormous financial exposure, including per‑claim fines that can accumulate quickly. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals and small businesses facing such allegations, working to protect their rights throughout the investigatory and litigation process. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle False Claims Cases
At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys take a thorough, detail‑oriented approach to false claims defense. Because these cases often involve voluminous documentation—contracts, billing records, emails, financial statements—a primary early step is to review all relevant records with the client, identify potential weaknesses in the government’s theory, and develop a factual narrative that presents the client’s position. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a practical advantage in analyzing financial evidence and tracing transactions that the government may rely on. The firm also works with forensic accountants, medical coding attorneys, and other professionals as needed to challenge the government’s damage calculations or intent evidence. In criminal matters, early engagement—often before an indictment is returned—can influence charging decisions, pre‑trial release conditions, and the scope of discovery. On the civil side, prompt action can affect whether the government chooses to intervene in a qui tam case or seek settlement. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and other federal courts across the firm’s practice jurisdictions. While every case is unique, the firm’s strategy typically includes challenging the sufficiency of the government’s evidence of “knowingly” submitting a false claim, examining whether the claim was actually material to the government’s payment decision, and exploring procedural or legal defenses. Above all, the firm prioritizes clear communication with clients, ensuring they understand the process and their options at each stage.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into how charging decisions are made and how the government builds its cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background in accounting and information systems gives him a distinct perspective when handling financial and technology‑intensive federal matters, including false claims allegations. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, allowing him to represent clients across multiple federal jurisdictions. He is supported by the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, who are experienced litigators with their own extensive backgrounds in criminal defense and civil litigation. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have documented case results across numerous practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. The firm’s approach is collaborative: every matter benefits from the collective knowledge and resources of the entire team, with Mr. Sris maintaining direct involvement in complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am contacted by a federal agent about a false claim?
If a federal agent contacts you regarding a false claim, you should politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Statements made to agents—even if you believe they are innocent or helpful—can be used against you later. Federal agents from agencies such as the FBI, HHS‑OIG, or DCIS often build cases through interviews before charges are filed. Do not attempt to explain the situation or provide documents without legal guidance. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. as soon as possible so that counsel can evaluate whether you are a subject, target, or witness and advise you on how to proceed.
Do I need a lawyer if I am only facing a civil false claims investigation?
Yes, you should promptly seek legal counsel even if the matter appears to be purely civil. A civil investigation under the False Claims Act can have significant financial consequences, including treble damages and per‑claim penalties. Moreover, facts developed during a civil investigation can later give rise to criminal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 287 or related statutes. An experienced attorney can help you respond to civil investigative demands, protect privileged documents, and negotiate with the government before litigation ensues. Early legal guidance often influences whether the matter is resolved administratively, through settlement, or proceeds to trial. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a confidential consultation.
How are federal false claims cases prosecuted in Virginia?
In Virginia, federal false claims cases are generally prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia or the Western District of Virginia, depending on where the alleged conduct occurred. The Eastern District—often referred to as the “rocket docket”—is known for its expedited case timelines. Investigations are commonly led by the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, or the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Cases may begin with a grand jury subpoena or a search warrant. Understanding the local procedural rules and the tendencies of the particular U.S. Attorney’s Office is an important part of mounting an effective defense. Our firm regularly appears in these federal courts.
What are the potential consequences of a false claims conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 is a felony and can lead to a sentence that includes imprisonment, supervised release, and monetary penalties, with the exact terms determined by the federal sentencing guidelines. The guideline range is influenced primarily by the amount of loss attributed to the fraudulent conduct. Restitution is also commonly ordered. On the civil side, liability under the False Claims Act can result in treble the government’s damages plus a civil penalty for each individual false claim—which can aggregate to a significant sum. Because both criminal and civil consequences can be severe, retaining counsel early is essential. To discuss your case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can I be sued civilly even if I was found not guilty in a criminal false claims case?
Yes, a civil False Claims Act case can proceed even after an acquittal in a related criminal matter. The civil and criminal proceedings are separate, and the standard of proof in a civil case is lower—preponderance of the evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt. The government or a whistleblower may choose to pursue civil penalties and treble damages regardless of the criminal outcome. Additionally, the government can use evidence gathered in the criminal investigation in the civil case. This dual exposure is one of the reasons why coordinating defense strategy across both tracks is critical. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys handle both criminal and civil false claims matters.
How does the qui tam provision of the False Claims Act work?
The qui tam provision allows a private individual, known as a relator, to file a civil lawsuit on behalf of the government alleging false claims and to share in any recovery. The relator files the complaint under seal, and the government has a period of time to investigate and decide whether to intervene and take over the case. If the government declines, the relator may still proceed on the government’s behalf. Qui tam cases often involve current or former employees, competitors, or others with inside knowledge. If you suspect that a qui tam action has been filed against you, you may not learn about it until the seal is lifted. Early consultation with counsel is advisable. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
Additional federal criminal defense resources:
Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer |
Fairfax False Claims Lawyer |
Virginia White Collar Crime Lawyer |
Virginia Health Care Fraud Lawyer |
Virginia Federal Conspiracy Lawyer
Primary sources and additional information:
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia |
Department of Justice – False Claims Act |
18 U.S.C. § 287 – False Claims (Legal Information Institute)
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.