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Doug Cloud Law | Attorney at Law
Doug Cloud Law | Attorney at Law

Protecting Client Interests For Over 40 Years

Protecting Whistleblowers Who Expose Defense Contractor Fraud

Fraud perpetrated against the Department of War (formally called the Department of Defense) doesn’t just cost the federal government money. Fraud can result in substandard weapons and other instruments of war which puts lives of our soldiers and sailors at increased risk and jeopardizes the effectiveness of our military operations.
If you have knowledge and have observed potential fraud perpetrated against the United States Government and the Department of War, you have the right to alert the government of the fraud through the filing of a Qui Tam lawsuit pursuant to the False Claims Act.
I help whistleblowers understand the potential monetary recoveries that can be made on behalf of the federal government and the potential large monetary rewards which can be awarded to a whistleblower who files a successful Qui Tam lawsuit.

Common Types Of Department Of War Fraud

Fraud against the Department of War can waste public money and result in failure on the battlefield. It may involve false and inaccurate billing or the failure to provide military goods or equipment that function properly. Fraud can also be deception by a government contractor to avoid satisfying the requirements of a contract with the government.

Defense contractor fraud can happen in many ways. It may involve large aerospace companies, weapons system developers, subcontractors or other businesses that work with the federal government.

Examples may include:

  • Billing the government for work that was not done
  • Charging more than the contract allows
  • Providing defective or unsafe parts
  • Using lower-quality materials than promised
  • Falsifying safety tests or inspection records
  • Hiding delays, defects or failed performance
  • Claiming that contract rules were followed when they were not

These cases may involve aircraft, weapons, software, cybersecurity systems, military vehicles, naval vessels, or other military related goods or services.

How Qui Tam Claims Work

The False Claims Act allows a private person to file a Qui Tam claim for fraud against the Department of War. The person who files the claim is often called a relator.

A relator may be a current employee, former employee, subcontractor or another person with direct knowledge of the fraud. The claim is filed on behalf of the federal government.

If the case leads to a recovery, the whistleblower may receive part of the money collected. However, Qui Tam cases involve strict rules and detailed evidence. Speaking with a lawyer early can help protect the claim.

Protection From Workplace Retaliation

Many people fear losing their jobs after reporting fraud. Federal law may protect whistleblowers from retaliation for reporting fraud.

Retaliation may include:

  • Firing
  • Demotion
  • Harassment
  • Reduced hours or duties
  • Threats or intimidation
  • Blacklisting within an industry

A worker who faces retaliation may have a separate legal claim against the employer.

Speak With A Washington Whistleblower Attorney Today

I have more than 40 years of legal experience and handle whistleblower cases involving complex facts, technical records and federal contracts. My work often requires careful investigation, witness interviews and help from experts in science, medicine or engineering.

If you believe a defense contractor has defrauded the government, contact my office, Doug Cloud Law, for a confidential consultation. I can review what you know, explain the qui tam process and help you understand your next steps. Call 253-753-2500 or send me an email today.