Tampa Qui Tam Lawyer
Brought under the False Claims Act, a qui tam lawsuit is a type of private, whistleblower lawsuit in which the whistleblower can receive a percentage of recovered government funds. These types of lawsuits are often especially complex, difficult to navigate, and are best pursued with the help of legal counsel who’s experienced in qui tam lawsuits. At the office of Trombley & Hanes, our Tampa qui tam lawyer can provide representation throughout your claim. Call our law firm today for a consultation to learn more about qui tam suits and how to start yours today.
What Is a Qui Tam Claim?
As mentioned above, a qui tam lawsuit is a type of whistleblower lawsuit. In this type of suit, a private citizen, called a realtor, brings forth the civil action on the government’s behalf. Because the civil action is brought on the behalf of the government, it is the government—not the individual—who is considered to be the plaintiff. The lawsuit is brought under the False Claims Act (discussed in more detail below), and can result in damages for the government. The relator can receive a portion of those damages.
What Is the False Claims Act?
The Florida False Claim Act is found under Florida Code of Civil Procedure, Title Six, Section 68.081. Under the act, it is unlawful for any person or corporation to present false or fraudulent claims for payment to the government, or to conceal, avoid, or reduce an obligation to pay the state. If a person or party is found to be guilty of a violation of the False Claims Act, they can be fined up to $11,000 for each violation plus three times the amount of damages the state sustains.
A qui tam lawsuit allows a whistleblower to bring a lawsuit under the False Claims Act, so long as they are filing a lawsuit for a unique violation of the law.
Protections for Whistleblowers
One important thing to know about the False Claims Act and your protections and rights if you are thinking about bringing for a qui tam lawsuit is that the False Claims Act provides for multiple protections for whistleblowers. For example, if the whistleblower is an employee of the company that is in violation of the act, the company is prohibited from discriminating, firing, harassing, or demoting the employee. If the employee suffers any damages as a result of retaliation due to their role as a whistleblower, they can file a civil lawsuit.
Another type of protection that is available during the claims process is that of anonymity. However, note that after the case is complete, your identity as a whistleblower will be revealed.
Call Our Tampa Qui Tam Lawyer Today
If you are aware of a unique violation under the False Claims Act, you may be able to file a qui tam lawsuit and recover a portion of damages as such. However, filing a qui tam lawsuit is a complex legal process that is best navigated with the help of an experienced professional. For legal counsel as you pursue your qui tam lawsuit and consider your options, call our Tampa qui tam lawyers at the office of Trombley & Hanes today. We are here to advocate for you!
