Los Angeles Healthcare Fraud Defense Lawyer
Advice and Representation From a Leading White-Collar Criminal Defense Attorney
The healthcare industry in the United States exceeds $800 billion in value, and healthcare fraud can reach into the billions as well. Agencies like the FBI, the DOJ and OIG aggressively go after doctors and medical providers whom they believe are defrauding Medicare, Medicaid (Medi-Cal) and private insurers. All too often healthcare providers who made innocent mistakes like billing errors find themselves swept up in large-scale investigations and vigorous prosecutions.
In Los Angeles, the Law Offices of Stanley L. Friedman offers robust legal defense and insightful counsel to individuals facing allegations of healthcare fraud, leveraging nearly 40 years of experience in the legal field as both a federal prosecutor and defense lawyer in the areas of healthcare fraud, financial fraud, and other forms of white-collar crime. Protect your liberty and your license. Contact our experienced Los Angeles healthcare fraud defense lawyer today.
What Constitutes Healthcare Fraud?
Healthcare fraud encompasses a range of illegal activities, all aimed at defrauding health insurance providers or government healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. At the heart of healthcare fraud is the intention to illicitly gain financial or personal benefit. The following are some of the most commonly charged forms of healthcare fraud:
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Billing for Services Not Rendered – This type of fraud involves submitting insurance claims for medical services or equipment that were never provided or performed.
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Upcoding Services and Equipment – This occurs when healthcare providers submit claims for more expensive treatments or services than those actually provided.
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Performing Unnecessary Services – Some healthcare providers may be charged with performing unnecessary services to bill higher fees.
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Kickbacks and Referral Fees – Laws like the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute strictly limit what one can pay or receive in exchange for patient referrals.
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Prescription Fraud – This includes writing prescriptions for drugs that are not medically necessary, sometimes allegedly for the purpose of resale on the black market.
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Misrepresenting Provider Credentials – Falsifying credentials or licensure information to obtain payments for services that require specialized qualifications also falls under healthcare fraud.
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Capping – Recruiting patients through money or gifts to receive medical services billed to Medi-Cal.
Defending Against Healthcare Fraud Allegations
Facing an accusation of healthcare fraud is a serious matter with substantial legal implications, and a strategic and knowledgeable defense is essential. The Law Offices of Stanley L. Friedman stands at the forefront of defense against such allegations, offering comprehensive legal representation informed by years of experience in both prosecution and defense.
Building a strong defense begins with an in-depth investigation to uncover all relevant facts and to challenge the prosecution’s allegations. Every detail is scrutinized, from billing records to regulatory compliance. Challenging the evidence requires a detailed understanding of both legal and healthcare systems. Often, healthcare fraud cases hinge on complex documentation and expert testimony. When necessary, our firm draws upon a network of industry experts to provide testimony that may debunk or cast doubt on the prosecution’s claims regarding the standard of care and billing practices. Additionally, a key element in healthcare fraud is the intent to commit the crime. Demonstrating the absence of intent can be a powerful defense strategy, often resulting in reduced or dismissed charges.
When appropriate, our firm is equipped to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties, reflecting a more accurate context of the alleged actions. We’ll also work to get charges dismissed wherever possible by demonstrating our capability to provide a strong defense and point out weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. When it comes to going to trial, Stanley L. Friedman’s extensive courtroom and trial experience positions him as a formidable advocate, capable of delivering a compelling defense before a judge or jury.
Choosing a Former Federal Prosecutor for Your Defense Gives You an Edge
The consequences of a healthcare fraud conviction can be devastating, including hefty fines, restitution, imprisonment and loss of professional license. Protecting your rights and livelihood requires the strategic counsel of a seasoned legal professional like Stanley L. Friedman, whose prosecutorial background provides a unique and advantageous perspective in navigating these complex cases.
For those in Los Angeles facing healthcare fraud investigations or charges, connecting with the Law Offices of Stanley L. Friedman ensures a defense grounded in experience, expert legal knowledge, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact the Law Offices of Stanley L. Friedman for Healthcare Fraud Defense in Los Angeles
If you find yourself under investigation or charged with healthcare fraud, don’t face it alone. Contact the Law Offices of Stanley L. Friedman today for a consultation, and secure the defense you deserve. Our team is ready to apply our extensive knowledge and experience to your case, ensuring that your rights are upheld at every step.
