Are there deadlines for bringing a False Claims Act (qui tam) case?
Yes. An action must be filed by the later of: (1) six years from the date of the fraud; or (2) three years after the government knows or should have known about the violation, but in no event longer than 10 years after the violation of the law. However, it is very important to act quickly on a False Claims Act case. Good preparation, and gathering key facts, documents, witnesses and other evidence is extremely important before your lawsuit is filed (initially in secret) and presented (initially in secret) to the appropriate government officials. There are several reasons for acting fast. One of the most important is that other relators may start the case before you, and you can lose all or substantially all of your reward for being an American citizen whistleblower. If the government discovers the fraud on its own and starts a lawsuit or investigation before you file your lawsuit, you also likely will be denied any benefit.
Related Questions
- The following frequently asked questions about the federal False Claims Act and its qui tam provisions are answered below. For general information, read What is Qui Tam?
- What can a whistleblower receive for bringing a qui tam case under the False Claims Act?
- What if I can afford a lawyer to bring a qui tam False Claims Act case?
