Two pieces of one system
The False Claims Act imposes liability for knowingly submitting false claims or causing them to be submitted. The qui tam provision allows a private person with inside knowledge to file suit in the government's name and share in any recovery.
Together they create one of the government's most effective fraud-fighting tools — responsible for billions in annual recoveries, mostly in healthcare and contracting.
Filing under seal
A qui tam complaint is filed under seal and served on the Department of Justice, not the defendant at first. DOJ has time to investigate before the case becomes public. During this period, relators must keep the matter confidential.
Government intervention
DOJ may intervene and take over litigation, intervene partially, or decline. Intervention rates and outcomes vary by district and case type. Strong relator counsel and thorough disclosure statements improve the odds of serious government attention.
Learn more
Our False Claims Act overview covers history and key provisions. The eligibility guide walks through whether your facts might support a case.