The federal and most state False Claims Acts allow whistleblowers to receive a portion of what is collected from wrongdoers. The federal law usually pays between 15% and 30% of whatever the government recovers. The difference between those figures is largely based on whether the government takes over the case and the whistleblower’s contribution to the case. (Another reason why whistleblowers should choose an experienced whistleblower lawyer with extensive law enforcement and investigative credentials.)
Usually the Justice Department and whistleblower and his or her lawyer negotiate the amount. If no agreement is reached, the court decides the award amount at a hearing.
The federal whistleblower law allows the government to collect triple damages plus an additional fine between $5,500 and $11,000 per each false claim or invoice presented. That means the potential fines – and potential whistleblower awards – can be substantial. Two of our clients have each received awards of approximately $50,000,000.00.
Want to find out if you may be entitled to a qui tam award? Please use our confidential contact form or contact attorney Brian Mahany directly at or (414) 704-6731 (direct dial). All inquiries are protected by the attorney – client privilege and kept completely confidential