Qui Tam “Whistleblower” Lawsuits – Getting Taxpayers’ Money Back

Q: Who can bring a “qui tam” claim?
A: Any person who is the “original source” of information regarding a company that has engaged in fraud while working for the Government. For example, you could be an employee of a State or Federal government agency that has hired a contractor to perform services for your agency – or you could be working for the contracting company itself. No matter what, if you have noticed possible evidence of fraud, you have the power to bring that conduct to light.

Because of the complexity of “qui tam” cases, and the extremely precise standard applied to the “original source” individual, it is essential that any person who wishes to become a relator is represented by lawyers familiar with the Federal and State False Claims Acts’ requirements.

The U.S. or California Governments can bring “qui tam” suits on their own, through their Attorneys General. However, fraud is often difficult to detect. This is why the U.S. False Claims Act, and its California equivalent, encourage individuals to become relators and notify the Government of fraudulent activity.

You have the opportunity to act as the “eyes and ears” of the nation, with access to information that might never be uncovered without your help.