False Claims lawyer Calvert County, MD

You are sitting in your living room in Prince Frederick when a pair of federal agents knock on your door. They identify themselves as investigators from the FBI and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and tell you they are looking into allegations that you submitted false claims to Medicare. Your mind races—what does this mean, how did this happen, and what comes next? In Calvert County, federal false claims investigations move from a knock on the door to a U.S. District Court indictment with surprising speed. Your case will likely be heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, either at the Baltimore courthouse on West Lombard Street or the Greenbelt courthouse on Cherrywood Lane. When federal prosecutors under the United States Attorney’s Office bring charges, you need experienced federal defense counsel who understands the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, the grand jury process, and the tools federal agents use to build their case. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Defending False Claims Allegations

When the government accuses you of submitting false claims—whether to Medicare, Medicaid, a defense contractor, or any federally funded program—it brings the full weight of its investigative resources. The FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division all work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland to build cases under 18 U.S.C. § 287. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team approach each false claims matter by first examining the government’s theory: was there an actual false statement or claim, can the government prove materiality and intent, and are there procedural or evidentiary weaknesses in the investigation? Early engagement—ideally before an indictment—allows counsel to present evidence to the prosecutor, negotiate on the scope of any potential charges, and explore whether the case can be resolved without a public indictment. If charges are already filed, defense strategy shifts to challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, filing pretrial motions to suppress statements or records, and preparing for trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

What to Expect When Facing Federal False Claims Charges

The federal criminal process in Maryland typically begins with a grand jury investigation. Unlike state court, where preliminary hearings are common, federal charges often proceed by indictment after a closed-door grand jury proceeding. You may not know you are under investigation until you receive a target letter or a subpoena. Once indicted, you will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for your initial appearance and arraignment. Pretrial release conditions can include bond, travel restrictions, and surrender of your passport. Discovery in a federal false claims case can involve thousands of documents—billing records, emails, contracts, and agency correspondence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel parse this material to identify exculpatory evidence and prepare for motions practice. The case then progresses through pretrial motions, possible plea negotiations, and, if no resolution, a jury trial. Throughout, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines influence every strategic decision because they determine the advisory range a judge will consider if you are convicted or plead guilty.

Penalties for Federal False Claims Convictions

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 for making or presenting a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim to the United States carries a maximum prison term of up to five years per count, along with fines that can reach substantial amounts for an individual or an organization. Restitution to the affected federal agency is typically required, and the court may impose a term of supervised release following any period of incarceration. In parallel, the government may also bring a civil action under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, seeking treble damages and civil penalties per false claim—exposure that can easily reach into the millions. The federal system has no parole, and the sentencing guidelines are driven by the amount of loss, the sophistication of the scheme, and the defendant’s role. Because these factors can dramatically increase the advisory guideline range, it is essential to have counsel who can advocate for downward departures, variance arguments, and mitigating factors at sentencing. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience between them to false claims defense. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has concentrated on criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he appears regularly in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. His prosecutorial background gives him a unique understanding of how federal agents build false claims cases and what strategies prosecutors consider when deciding whether to offer a plea. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Working alongside Mr. Sris are his Of Counsel attorneys, each bringing focused experience to federal criminal defense matters. The team handles cases throughout Maryland, including Calvert County, from the firm’s Rockville location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a false claims charge?

A false claims charge involves presenting a fraudulent demand for payment to the federal government. Under 18 U.S.C. § 287, the government must prove you knowingly submitted a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim to any U.S. Department or agency. Common targets include Medicare, TRICARE, federal grant programs, and defense contracts. The statute covers false billing, double billing, billing for services not rendered, and misrepresentation. Conviction can lead to imprisonment, fines, and restitution.

How does a federal false claims investigation start?

Federal false claims investigations often begin with a whistleblower tip, data analysis by agency auditors, or a referral from a state agency. The FBI, HHS-OIG, or DCIS may open a case, sometimes using undercover contacts, surveillance, or search warrants. Before an indictment, a grand jury reviews evidence in secret. In Maryland, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Baltimore or Greenbelt typically leads the prosecution. Early legal intervention can help shape the investigation’s course before charges are filed.

What should I do if I am under investigation for false claims?

Do not speak to federal agents without counsel present and preserve all relevant documents. Agents may appear friendly, but anything you say can be used against you. Immediately contact an experienced federal defense lawyer who handles cases in U.S. District Court. Your attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, evaluate whether you are a target or a witness, and work to prevent charges or negotiate the scope of the investigation.

Can false claims charges be dismissed?

False claims charges can be dismissed pretrial if the government’s evidence is insufficient or obtained illegally. A defense attorney may file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the indictment’s legal sufficiency, or present exculpatory material that persuades the prosecutor to drop the case. Dismissal is more likely when counsel identifies procedural violations or when the government overcharges a case it cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

How do federal sentencing guidelines affect false claims cases?

The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines calculate a sentencing range based on the loss amount, number of claims, and the defendant’s role in the offense. A high loss amount—often the total dollar value of the false claims—drives the base offense level higher. Enhancements apply for sophisticated means, abuse of a position of trust, or obstruction. While advisory, the guidelines are the starting point for any sentence. Experienced counsel can argue for downward departures under § 5K1.1 (substantial assistance), acceptance of responsibility, or a variance based on personal circumstances.

Why is federal court different from state court for false claims?

Federal court has stricter procedures, longer sentences, and no parole; state-court experience does not automatically translate. Federal prosecutors have the resources of national investigative agencies, and the conviction rate is high. The rules of evidence, discovery obligations, and sentencing structure are unique. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and understand how to navigate federal practice.

Do I need a lawyer if I only received a subpoena?

Yes, a subpoena means the government has identified you as someone who may have relevant information, and you could become a target. Subpoenas for documents or testimony should be taken seriously. A lawyer can review the subpoena’s scope, negotiate limitations with the prosecutor, and advise you on privilege and Fifth Amendment issues. Proceeding without counsel risks inadvertently providing inculpatory evidence or waiving your rights.

How does a lawyer defend a false claims case?

Defense strategies may focus on lack of intent, materiality, or the validity of the claim itself. False claims require proof you knowingly submitted a fraudulent demand. If you believed the claim was proper or the error was a billing mistake, the government may not meet its burden. Other approaches include challenging audit methodology, witness credibility, or whether the claim was actually paid. A thorough review of financial records and agency regulations forms the foundation of the defense.

What happens if I am convicted of federal false claims?

If convicted, you face sentencing under the guidelines, potential incarceration, fines, restitution, and supervised release. The court will determine the sentence after considering the presentence investigation report. Restitution to the defrauded agency is mandatory. For individuals on professional licenses, a federal felony conviction can trigger license revocation. Post-conviction relief, including appeals or motions under 28 U.S.C. § 2255, may be available in limited circumstances.

For a full statutory breakdown, see our comprehensive analysis at srislawyer.com. The firm’s Rockville location also handles federal criminal cases in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County.

To discuss your false claims matter in confidence, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel serve clients from Calvert County and throughout Maryland.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland Location
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.

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