False Claims lawyer Baltimore, MD

If you are under investigation or have been charged with making false claims against the federal government, the weight of the U.S. Department of Justice rests squarely on your shoulders. Federal prosecutors in Baltimore pursue False Claims Act violations actively, and the consequences of a conviction reach far beyond a prison sentence. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to defending individuals and businesses accused of defrauding the government. We understand how the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland builds these cases, and we work to challenge every element of the government’s proof. Our firm has appeared in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, including the Baltimore division, and we know the local procedural landscape. To request a consultation about a false claims matter in Baltimore, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Federal False Claims Cases Mean in Baltimore, MD

Federal false claims charges in Baltimore, MD typically arise under two statutes: the criminal provision codified at 18 U.S.C. § 287 and the civil False Claims Act found at 31 U.S.C. § 3729. The criminal statute makes it a felony to present a false or fraudulent claim to any department or agency of the United States. The civil side allows the government—or a private whistleblower in a qui tam action—to recover treble damages and per-claim penalties. Both tracks often proceed simultaneously, and an investigation by the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, or the Defense Criminal Investigative Service can precede formal charges.

In Baltimore, these matters are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, which has a dedicated team for white‑collar and fraud cases. The grand jury sits in the Edward A. Garmatz Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, and indictments frequently involve multiple counts of wire fraud, mail fraud, or conspiracy alongside the false claims charges. Because federal sentencing guidelines apply, a person convicted of presenting false claims faces a potential prison term of up to five years per count, a fine of up to $250,000 for an individual (or $500,000 for an organization), and a term of supervised release. The court also retains authority to order restitution equal to the loss the government sustained. Given the stakes, having an attorney who is familiar with the Baltimore federal bench and the local Federal Public Defender’s panel can make a significant difference in the defense strategy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, and we concentrate our practice on defending against federal allegations of fraud.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal False Claims Cases

When someone first contacts our firm about a false claims investigation, we move quickly to assess the government’s theory of the case. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how federal agents compile evidence and how Assistant U.S. Attorneys decide whether to seek an indictment. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys with deep courtroom experience, and together they evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the government’s proof. We scrutinize the alleged claim to determine whether it was actually false, whether it was presented to a federal agency, and whether the defendant acted with the requisite intent. In many cases, the critical issue is whether any misstatement was material—that is, whether it had a natural tendency to influence the government’s payment decision.

Our approach is to engage with the prosecution early, often before an indictment is returned. We may present a detailed factual proffer to the U.S. Attorney’s Office that highlights exculpatory evidence, procedural irregularities, or the absence of fraudulent intent. If charges are filed, we file appropriate pretrial motions—such as motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment or motions to dismiss an indictment that fails to state an offense. Throughout the process, we keep the client informed of the options: proceeding to trial, negotiating a plea agreement that may limit exposure, or, where the facts support it, seeking a declination or dismissal. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience handling matters before the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, and they understand how the local rules and the Speedy Trial Act shape the pace of litigation. They work to protect the client’s rights at every stage, from the initial target letter through sentencing, if it comes to that.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He founded the firm in 1997 after serving as a prosecutor, and his courtroom experience informs the defense of every federal fraud case the firm handles. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team supports him with extensive combined legal experience in federal criminal defense. The firm’s attorneys concentrate their practice on federal matters, and they are familiar with the procedures and personnel of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of his team, call (888) 437-7747.​:citation[oaicite:0]{index=”0″}

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the federal False Claims Act?

The federal False Claims Act is a law that imposes liability on persons and companies who defraud governmental programs. The criminal provision, 18 U.S.C. § 287, makes it a felony to present a false or fraudulent claim to the United States. The civil False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, allows the government to recover treble damages and a civil penalty for each false claim. Both statutes are frequently used in healthcare fraud, defense contracting, and grant‑funding investigations. A prosecution can result in incarceration, steep fines, and exclusion from federal programs.

Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for false claims in Baltimore?

Yes, you should retain a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately if you are under investigation for false claims in Baltimore. The U.S. Attorney’s Office routinely uses grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and witness interviews to build its case, and statements you make to investigators can be used against you. An experienced attorney can communicate with the prosecution on your behalf, advise you on whether to cooperate, and start developing a defense before charges are filed. Early involvement often leads to better outcomes. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What are the penalties for criminal false claims in Maryland?

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 287 for making a false claim to the federal government carries up to five years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 for individuals, and a term of supervised release. The court also orders restitution in the amount of the government’s actual loss. If the false claim is part of a larger scheme—for example, one that also involves mail fraud or money laundering—additional charges can significantly increase the potential sentence. The United States Sentencing Guidelines consider the amount of the loss and the defendant’s role in the offense, so the ultimate penalty varies by case. An attorney can explain how the guidelines may apply to your specific situation.

Can a false claims charge be dismissed?

Yes, a federal false claims charge can be dismissed if the government fails to prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, or if a successful pretrial motion shows that the indictment is legally insufficient or that evidence was obtained in violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights. Defense counsel may argue that the statement or claim was not actually false, that it was not material, or that the defendant lacked the specific intent to defraud. In some cases, the prosecution agrees to dismiss charges as part of a plea negotiation on other counts. Every case is fact‑specific, and a thorough review of the government’s evidence is essential. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate each case to determine the strong $1.

What should I do if I receive a target letter in a false claims investigation?

If you receive a target letter in a false claims investigation, do not discuss the matter with anyone except your attorney, and preserve all relevant documents. A target letter signals that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has substantial evidence linking you to a crime and that you are likely to be indicted. Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately; that attorney can contact the prosecutor to learn more about the allegations and may be able to arrange a meeting before charges are filed. The period between receiving a target letter and indictment is critical. For guidance, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How are civil and criminal False Claims Act cases different?

Criminal false claims cases are prosecuted by the Department of Justice and can result in incarceration, while civil False Claims Act cases seek monetary damages and penalties, often initiated by a whistleblower. In the criminal context, the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In a civil qui tam action, a private relator files the lawsuit on behalf of the government, and the standard of proof is a preponderance of the evidence. Both types of cases may arise from the same conduct, and the government often coordinates parallel proceedings. A defense attorney experienced in both arenas can protect your interests across all fronts.

Related pages: Federal criminal defense practice | Montgomery County federal criminal lawyer | Prince George’s County federal criminal lawyer | Howard County federal criminal lawyer

Official sources: 18 U.S.C. § 287 (criminal false claims) | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | DOJ False Claims Act overview

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