Florida False Statements Related to Health Care Matters Lawyer

False statements related to healthcare matters involve providing inaccurate or misleading information to secure benefits or payments from healthcare programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. Under federal law, particularly 18 U.S. Code § 1035, it is a crime to knowingly and willfully make materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements or representations in connection with the delivery of or payment for health care benefits, services, or items. Penalties for violating this law include fines and up to five years in prison, making it imperative to get advice and representation from an experienced and successful criminal defense attorney like you will find at The Baez Law Firm. Contact our Florida false statements related to health care matters lawyers today.

Common Examples of False Statements in Health Care

Health care fraud encompasses a broad range of activities that may include making false statements related to health care matters, including but not limited to:

• Billing for Services Not Provided: Submitting claims for medical procedures or services that were never performed.
• Upcoding: Inflating codes to charge for more expensive procedures than those actually provided.
• False Certifications: Certifying a patient’s eligibility for certain treatments or programs under false pretenses.

Additionally, 18 U.S. Code § 1035 applies to any person making materially false statements in connection with the delivery or payment for healthcare benefits, items or services. The law theoretically applies to more than just doctors, pharmacists, or other healthcare providers. Patients could violate this law as well by engaging in activities such as:

• Applying for Medicare supplements despite being ineligible due to surpassing income or asset limits.
• Applying for health coverage without disclosing a pre-existing condition.

Legal Consequences of Making False Statements in Florida

The penalties for making false statements related to healthcare matters can be severe. Individuals found guilty of such offenses may face substantial financial penalties amounting to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Convictions can also result in significant prison sentences, often ranging from several months to many years, depending on the severity of the fraud. Finally, healthcare professionals may lose their licenses or be barred from participating in federal healthcare programs.

Defense Strategies for False Statement Charges

If you are facing accusations of making false statements in health care, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a record of success in state and federal criminal cases who will vigorously assert all reasonable defenses. Some potential defense strategies to charges like these include:

• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intent to defraud or that the false statement was a result of a mistake or oversight.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and proving that it is insufficient to support a conviction.
• Good Faith: Arguing that the statements were made in good faith based on the information available at the time.
• Mistaken Identity: Showing that the accused was not responsible for the false statements and that someone else was involved.

Navigating healthcare fraud charges requires deep knowledge of the laws and criminal procedures at play. A skilled Florida healthcare criminal defense lawyer at The Baez Law Firm can provide invaluable assistance by thoroughly examining the details of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments. Next, we’ll craft a robust defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case. When it comes to representing your interests in court and negotiating with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing, our team is known throughout Florida and nationwide for skilled and effective legal advocacy in and out of the courtroom.

Contact Us for a Strong Defense Against Health Care Fraud Charges in Florida

Facing allegations of making false statements related to healthcare matters can be career-damaging and life-altering. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive a fair trial. We understand the intricacies of healthcare law and are committed to providing the highest level of defense.

If you or a loved one has been accused of healthcare fraud in Florida, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Call us today at 800-588-BAEZ or contact us online for a free consultation, and let us help you build a solid defense to protect your future.