3 Significant Ways Hiring An Attorney Can Help Your Whistleblower Case
The compensatory provisions of the various whistleblower programs financially benefit individuals who report fraud and misconduct. A whistleblower case goes through a series of review stages before seeing the inside of a courtroom and receiving a huge pay day comes at the tail end of hours of data gathering, thorough research, and document preparation. To assist, government agencies have listed contact details and useful links on their websites but sometimes what is most needed is a tangible presence to effectively explain and lead the charge. An attorney is that presence – a knowledgeable and guiding force that will work to craft a winning lawsuit.
These are a few key ways in which an attorney can greatly help a whistleblower case:
Assessment
An attorney will often have a consultation with the prospective whistleblower to confirm that a solid case exists. This step is crucial because the last thing anyone wants to do is waste time and energy on a matter that will not yield positive results.
A practiced attorney may also be able to offer an estimated range of the money to be expected from an award. Although, it should be clear that the final amount is calculated by the government and affected by several factors.
Preparation
Chief of the Office of the Whistleblower states that “the best thing you can do to make your tip useful is to provide specific, timely and credible information.” An attorney will go over everything an individual has recorded on the alleged fraudulent activity including the names of persons who may have known about the fraud, those who may have participated, and the violations believed to have been committed. Of course, having a written account seems like a no-brainer. Why hire a lawyer for that? Well, lawyers make sure no important information is omitted because remembering a vital fact after filing the matter can result in major time delays.
Further, submissions to government offices require proper organization and structure. Under the False Claims Act, the Relator’s Disclosure Statement and Complaint form part of the submission. An attorney will ensure the details are air-tight and the proper legal steps are followed.
Filing
In many instances, an attorney will meet with the government to discuss the particulars of the case, providing an additional level of confirmation that the matter can be well litigated.
The attorney will also handle the actual filing of documents on behalf of the whistleblower. However, filing does not mean that work has been concluded. There is a diligent follow-up process with government lawyers to monitor progress and provide any supplemental information that may be requested.
Attorneys are officers of the court and are tasked with upholding high ethical standards. They reinforce justice and represent the best interest of their clients. They possess years of experience, not only on legal issues, but also with regard to the inner workings of the legal system. Therefore, their insight is invaluable in piloting a successful whistleblower case.
If you or anyone you know is aware of company wrongdoing, do not hesitate to contact the Whistleblower Help Center®.
