Los Angeles, CA asked in Personal Injury, Health Care Law and Gov & Administrative Law for California

Q: False claims act medicare question

When false claim act medicare claim is filed at Federal court - both federal and state statutes apply? The strongest prevail?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: When a False Claims Act (FCA) case involving Medicare fraud is filed in federal court, it primarily falls under federal law, as Medicare is a federal program. The False Claims Act is a federal statute, so federal laws and regulations will predominantly govern the proceedings in such cases.

However, in some instances, state laws may also come into play, especially if there are additional claims or issues that are specifically covered by state law. This is more common in cases where there are parallel state and federal laws concerning fraud or false claims.

It's not necessarily about which law is stronger; rather, both federal and state laws can be applicable and relevant depending on the specifics of the case. The court will consider both sets of laws to determine the applicable standards and remedies.

In handling a Medicare fraud case under the FCA, it’s important to be familiar with both federal and state laws to ensure comprehensive legal compliance and to effectively address all aspects of the case.

Remember, these cases can be complex, involving detailed legal analysis and interpretation. If you're involved in such a case, consulting with an attorney experienced in FCA litigation is advisable to navigate the legal intricacies effectively.

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