Do I need a lawyer to file a qui tam action?
The False Claims Act does not bar pro se litigation; however, several courts have ruled that relators cannot prosecute a qui tam action on their own since they would be acting as attorney for the government.
How do I find a qualified lawyer to file a qui tam action?
The False Claims Act is a specialized area of the law, and you should be careful to select a qualified attorney with experience in qui tam litigation. Because qui tam cases usually take many years to resolve, it is also important to have an attorney that you can rely on and with whom you feel comfortable. It is essential that you meet with potential attorneys before deciding to retain them for your case.
Should I find a lawyer close to home?
Not necessarily. Many qui tam lawyers practice nationwide. Because federal courts govern themselves by uniform procedural rules, it is not uncommon for federal-court practitioners to work away from home. We have been involved in numerous cases in more than a dozen states.
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