Avoiding Penalties for Health Care Fraud
Florida and Nationwide Representation
State and federal fraud prosecutors are eager to make an example of those caught up in the net. If you are under investigation or indicted for criminal fraud charges, contact the Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, a Professional Association, immediately. The potential penalties for conviction are severe and we aggressively counter the allegations.
Based in Orlando, Florida, we represent individual providers and employees, as well as hospital employees and officers, on-line pharmacies, and other companies. We have successfully defended cases statewide in Florida and throughout the United States. Call 407.401.7224 or 866.784.0023 to discuss your situation and protect against criminal charges.
Potential Penalties for Fraud
- Prison: Federal sentences are based on the dollar amount of loss. Fraud valued at $120,000 can carry up to one year in prison, even for a first offense. If the loss exceeds $400,000, presumptive prison terms are two to three years.
- Fines: A federal conviction for Medicare, Medicaid or other health care fraud can result in fines equal to twice the loss, up to a $250,000 fine for individuals and up to $500,000 for corporations, whichever is greater.
- Medical sanctions: Physicians or other providers may face loss of their medical license/professional license, and hospitals or individual providers can be barred from future contracts with Medicaid and Medicare.
- Multiple counts: Each false claim is a separate offense. If the investigating agency alleges dozens or hundreds of fraudulent billings, prosecutors can seek the maximum sentence under sentencing guidelines. It is also possible to face state and federal prosecutions for the same allegations.
- RICO prosecutions: Convictions involving fraud under the federal RICO provisions may carry additional criminal penalties and forfeiture of assets.
- Civil lawsuits: If sued civilly under RICO, you may face treble (triple) damages.
Criminal Fraud Charge Defense
At Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, a Professional Association, our number one goal is to pre-empt criminal charges by representing clients during the audit and investigation stage. We conduct our own investigation to show that the billing error or alleged false statement was a misunderstanding. We advise clients on whether to communicate with investigators and how to avoid additional charges of obstruction of justice.
Our experienced trial lawyers work hard to avoid charges, but we prepare every case for the possibility of a criminal trial. Our lawyers offer decades of experience in criminal defense, and Mark L. Horwitz is certified by the state of Florida and the National Board of Trial Advocacy as a criminal trial specialist.
Contact our Orlando office today at 407.401.7224 or 866.784.0023, or contact us online, to arrange a confidential consultation at the earliest juncture.
