Representing whistleblowers nationwide
The False Claims Act (FCA) empowers whistleblowers to expose fraud against the government by filing qui tam lawsuits, potentially earning 15-30% of recovered funds. However, these cases are complex and require skilled legal representation to succeed.
At Bracker & Marcus LLC, we use our deep expertise in FCA litigation to maximize rewards and protect our clients’ rights throughout the process.
We’re one of the few firms in the country focusing solely on FCA litigation
Bracker & Marcus LLC exclusively represents whistleblowers in False Claims Act (FCA) and qui tam litigation nationwide. Our experienced attorneys personally handle every case, and we’re known for being client-focused, transparent, and committed to protecting whistleblowers from retaliation. We achieve twice the national average in government interventions and successfully litigate declined cases.
Our firm is nationally recognized for its leadership in FCA litigation, frequently advising other attorneys and lecturing at whistleblower law seminars. Working on a contingency basis, we cover all legal costs upfront, ensuring whistleblowers can pursue justice without financial risk.
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Successful whistleblower cases: Holding fraudsters accountable
B&H Health Care Services Inc. – $24 million
Three New York-based home care agencies paid $23,963,100 to settle allegations that they employed untrained home health aides who provided unqualified medical care to vulnerable patients. The agencies billed Medicaid for millions in services that aides were not certified to perform. |
Taylor Bean & Whitaker Mortgage Corp. and Home America Mortgage, Inc. – $320 million
These mortgage companies paid $320 million to resolve claims that they falsified borrower eligibility data for government-backed home loans. When unqualified borrowers defaulted, the federal government was left covering hundreds of millions in losses on loans that never should have been issued. |
Universal Health Services, Inc. – $117 million
This psychiatric hospital chain settled allegations for $117 million after being accused of fraudulent billing for unnecessary services, admitting ineligible patients, prolonging stays for financial gain, and failing to provide proper staffing and supervision. The company was also accused of misusing physical and chemical restraints on patients. |
What our clients say: Trust, dedication, and results
★★★★★
“I met Julie & Jason the day after being asked to tender my resignation at a job I loved. From that first meeting until the final settlement three years later, their professionalism, competency, & work ethic was exemplary. I know I could not have had better counsel. They truly represent the best in their profession.” |
★★★★★
“Bracker & Marcus do an excellent job of using their experience and knowledge to listen to their clients and truly evaluate all aspects of the case to present a straightforward opinion on the issue being brought forward. They also have an obvious personal interest in justice being served even when there may not be a finding that would result in a financial settlement, which is impressive in this field.” |
★★★★★
“Bracker & Marcus made me feel safe when the world was closing in around me. Their expertise in the industry, devotion towards their clients and pride in what they do, make them 5 stars all the way around.” |
The False Claims Act: How whistleblowers help fight fraud
The False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733) imposes liability on individuals and entities that knowingly submit false claims for government funds. The qui tam provision of the FCA allows private citizens (relators) to file lawsuits on behalf of the government.
How False Claims Act cases work
- Whistleblower files a qui tam lawsuit under seal – The case remains confidential while the government investigates.
- Government investigates the allegations – This process can take two to three years or more.
- Government decides whether to intervene – If the government takes over the case, a settlement or litigation is likely. If not, the relator can choose to proceed with the lawsuit independently.
- Whistleblower receives a percentage of recovery – If the case succeeds, the relator is rewarded with 15-25% if the government intervenes and 25-30% if the case is declined but still successful.
The FCA imposes treble damages, meaning that violators may have to pay three times the defrauded amount, along with civil penalties per false claim.
Why whistleblowers need Bracker & Marcus on their side
Filing a False Claims Act case is a complex and high-stakes process that requires experienced legal counsel to ensure compliance, maximize financial recovery (up to 30% of recovered funds) and protect whistleblowers from retaliation.
At Bracker & Marcus LLC, we provide dedicated representation, guiding whistleblowers through legal complexities, government investigations, and protection against workplace retaliation. We work closely with federal agencies to strengthen cases and secure the highest possible rewards.
If you’re ready to take a stand against fraud, contact us for a confidential consultation—we’re here to fight for you every step of the way.
Common areas of FCA litigation
False Claims Act cases may arise in any industry with government dealings, but healthcare, government contracting, and financial and research grant fraud are the most common.
Healthcare fraud
- Medicare & Medicaid fraud – Upcoding, unbundling, billing for unnecessary services
- Kickback schemes – Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and Stark Law
- Pharmaceutical fraud – Off-label marketing, “best price” fraud, and defective drugs
- Medical device fraud – Billing for unapproved or faulty medical devices
Government contracting fraud
- Defense contractor fraud – Overcharging, bid-rigging, defective products
- Procurement fraud – Falsified compliance, false certifications, price inflation
- Construction fraud – Using substandard materials in federally funded projects
Financial & research grant fraud
- Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud – False claims for pandemic relief funds
- Federal grant fraud – Falsification of research data or improper grant fund usage
- Banking & securities fraud – Misuse of federal financial programs
Weighing your options: Litigating a declined qui tam case
If the government declines to intervene, the relator must decide whether to proceed independently. Many law firms avoid declined cases, but at Bracker & Marcus LLC, we carefully evaluate each case and:
- Determine the strength of the claim – Some of the largest FCA recoveries have come from declined cases
- Bring in co-counsel when needed – To level the playing field against powerful defense teams, we collaborate with experienced FCA litigators at no additional cost to the whistleblower.
- Assess risk and reward – Litigating a declined case can be expensive and time-consuming. We provide honest advice to help relators decide if proceeding is the right choice.
Successful FCA cases: How whistleblowers get paid
The False Claims Act incentivizes whistleblowers by awarding a percentage of the total recovery:
- 15-25% if the government intervenes
- 25-30% if the relator proceeds independently
Damages in FCA cases
- Treble damages – The defendant pays three times the amount defrauded
- Civil penalties – Up to $27,018 per false claim
- Attorney fees – Defendants may be required to pay legal costs
We help the government aggressively pursue fraudsters, and whistleblower claims can be highly valuable.
Your first steps: Contacting an FCA attorney
The False Claims Act empowers courageous whistleblowers to fight fraud against the government and recover stolen taxpayer dollars. At Bracker & Marcus LLC, we are dedicated to protecting relators, guiding them through every stage of the legal process, and maximizing their potential rewards.
We offer:
- Confidential case evaluations – We protect whistleblowers from retaliation and exposure.
- Nationwide representation – No matter where you are, we can handle your case.
- No upfront costs – We work on a contingency basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless you win.
Call Bracker & Marcus LLC today at (770) 988-5035 or schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
We answer common questions about the False Claims Act
Does the FCA only apply in the U.S.?
The FCA was intentionally designed to be broad and far-reaching, allowing Bracker & Marcus LLC to help whistleblowers expose fraud wherever it occurs. The FCA applies to misconduct involving U.S. federal spending, procurement, or contracting, even if the fraud occurs outside the United States. Additionally, the law permits any individual, including non-U.S. citizens and NGOs, to serve as a whistleblower.
Resources for whistleblowers
- Report and Prevent Fraud – U.S. Government Accountability Office
- How to File a Whistleblower Complaint – U.S. Department of Labor
- State Whistleblower Anti-Retaliation Statutes (page 41 for Georgia) – Congressional Research Service