North Carolina Whistleblowers and the False Claims Act
North Carolina whistleblowers who report fraud against government programs can rely on two powerful tools to receive protection and a possible reward. These tools, which are actually laws, are the North Carolina False Claims Act and the Federal False Claims Act.
The North Carolina False Claims Act, like its federal counter-part, allows whistleblowers to bring claims on behalf of the government. These claims are called “qui tam” lawsuits, and are filed “under seal” – meaning in secret.
Qui tam lawsuits remain secret to allow the government time to decide whether to intervene in the case. If the government does intervene, the whistleblower may receive up to 25% of any recovery.
The most common types of claims filed under the False Claims Act involve healthcare fraud, specifically Medicare and/or Medicaid fraud, and government contracting fraud.
There are specific rules and requirements a whistleblower must follow when filing claims under the FCA. Failure to follow these rules can disqualify a whistleblower from an award.
The North Carolina and federal False Claims Acts also protect whistleblowers from workplace retaliation by an employer.
If you are considering on becoming a whistleblower, contact Miller Law Group for a free consultation, or call 919-348-4361.
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