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

Q: Filing healthcare false claims act case In California under seal - question.

In California healthcare false claim case has to be filed under seal in state superior court or at federal court?

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In cases involving healthcare false claims in California, the procedure for filing can vary based on whether the claim falls under state or federal jurisdiction. For claims that pertain to the California False Claims Act, you would typically file the case in a state superior court. These cases must be filed under seal, which means they are not initially accessible to the public. This allows the government to investigate the claims discreetly.

On the other hand, if the false claim involves federal funds or federal programs, the case may fall under the Federal False Claims Act. In such instances, the case should be filed in federal court, also under seal. The seal requirement serves a similar purpose at the federal level, allowing for a confidential investigation.

It's important to identify which act the false claim violates to determine the appropriate court for filing. The distinction between state and federal jurisdiction can sometimes be nuanced, especially in healthcare matters. Therefore, reviewing the specifics of the case and consulting relevant legal resources or colleagues might be beneficial to ensure correct filing procedures. Remember, accurate filing is crucial for the validity and progress of the case.

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