Healthcare Fraud Lawyer Blog
Whistleblowers were given that name because they are essentially “blowing the whistle,” or alerting government officials of fraud committed against the government. Both the federal False Claims Act and the California False Claims Act provide great protection to whistleblowers and often, even compensation for bringing the fraud to light.
Many whistleblowers think that because they are trying to help the government, the law is on their side and they do not need an attorney to help them file the lawsuit. This however, is not true. There are many reasons why whistleblowers need the help of a lawyer who can ensure their claim is filed correctly and that they are treated fairly.
Whistleblowers Sometimes Lose Their Jobs
Although the law prohibits retaliation against employees, not all employers follow this law. When a whistleblower alerts someone to fraud happening in the workplace, such as in a medical clinic, employers often fire them. In the most extreme cases, workers are sometimes blackballed by an entire industry.
When a whistleblower has an attorney by his or her side, though, it can help them keep their job. An employee who has legal representation is much more difficult to fire than one who does not. If the employee is still fired, a lawyer can help the employee file a separate lawsuit against the employer.
Whistleblower Lawsuits Take a Long Time
By their very nature, a whistleblower lawsuit can take years before it is finalized and the matter is officially closed. There are two ways a lawyer can help with this waiting period.
Firstly, an attorney can ensure that everything is filed correctly and that important information has not been left out of the lawsuit. This will help move it through the legal system more quickly. In addition, an attorney will always know what is going on with the lawsuit at any stage, unlike private citizens who may not. An attorney can keep citizens informed of any progress, or what is holding the lawsuit up in the court system.
Whistleblower Lawsuits are Unpredictable
The law is always unpredictable, but this is particularly true in whistleblower cases. Federal and state legislation is forever changing, and even cases that seem ironclad can run into speed bumps along the way. In the past, appellate courts have been known to turn a solid case a difficult one with little warning.
An attorney will understand the laws, even as they change. They are also able to reasonably predict what should happen and, in the event that changes, will know how to respond to it. Qui tam attorneys dedicate their lives to this area of law and as such, know the kinks that can crop up and how to smooth them out to keep the lawsuit moving at a good pace.
Every Whistleblower Needs the Help of a California Qui Tam Attorney
If you believe that you have a whistleblower claim, do not try to file it or see it through on your own. You need the help of the experienced California qui tam lawyers at Willoughby Brod, LLP. We will review your claim and help you every step of the way while filing it. We will always keep you updated on its status, and make sure your rights are protected throughout the process. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 to get a free case evaluation for your whistleblower lawsuit.
Related Posts:
Qui Tam Actions Under the California False Claims Act
Recent Developments on “Materiality” Requirements in Qui Tam Lawsuits
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