Virginia Health Care Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Health care fraud in Virginia is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison per count and fines exceeding $250,000. If you are under investigation for medical billing fraud or a healthcare scheme in Virginia, securing a Virginia health care fraud lawyer is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Health Care Fraud Charges in Virginia
Health care fraud is a federal crime prosecuted under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 1347. This law makes it illegal to knowingly execute, or attempt to execute, a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program or to obtain money or property from such a program through false pretenses. In Virginia, these cases are typically handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern or Western Districts, not state courts. The federal sentencing guidelines heavily influence potential penalties, which can include lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, mandatory restitution, and exclusion from federal health care programs.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the primary federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1347 (Health Care Fraud). For local court procedures and rules in Virginia, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
handling a Federal Health Care Fraud Investigation
Federal investigations for health care fraud in Virginia are often led by agencies like the FBI, HHS-OIG, or the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The process typically begins with a subpoena for records or an interview request. A key local procedural fact is that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, based in Alexandria, has a dedicated health care fraud unit known for its aggressive prosecution of these complex cases.
- Receive Notice: You may get a subpoena, search warrant, or target letter from a federal agency.
- Secure Counsel: Immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Case Assessment: Your legal team will analyze the allegations, review documents, and identify potential defenses.
- Investigation Response: Your attorney will manage all communications with prosecutors, potentially negotiating for a favorable resolution pre-indictment.
- Trial or Plea: If indicted, your lawyer will prepare a vigorous defense for trial or negotiate a plea agreement that minimizes penalties.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence under the federal guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Health Care Fraud in Virginia
In Virginia federal courts, health care fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 is a felony with a base penalty of up to 10 years in prison; if the fraud results in serious bodily injury, the maximum rises to 20 years, and if it results in death, the maximum is life imprisonment.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Health Care Fraud | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000+ | Restitution, program exclusion, asset forfeiture |
| Fraud Causing Serious Injury | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000+ | Restitution, program exclusion, asset forfeiture |
| Fraud Causing Death | Federal Felony | Up to $250,000+ | Restitution, program exclusion, asset forfeiture | |
| Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349) | Federal Felony | Same as underlying fraud | Same as underlying fraud | Restitution, program exclusion, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Health Care Fraud Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the immense pressure of a federal investigation and provide a defense focused on the intricate details of medical billing and federal regulations. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across jurisdictions.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Documented Case Results in Federal Defense
Our firm has a documented history of handling complex federal charges. While specific outcomes depend on unique case facts, our approach is thorough and strategic. For instance, in past federal matters, we have successfully negotiated for reduced charges and favorable sentencing outcomes. Our secondary attorney on federal cases, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and extensive federal court practice.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Health Care Fraud Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Serving: Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, and surrounding counties and cities.
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients across Northern Virginia facing federal charges. We are accessible via major highways including I-66, I-495, and Route 50. If you need a health care fraud lawyer near Fairfax or are searching for “health care fraud defense near me,” contact us for a consultation. We serve communities including Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Centreville, and Chantilly. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (Health Care Fraud in Virginia)
What is the difference between a mistake and health care fraud in Virginia?
It depends. The key element is intent. A simple billing error or clerical mistake is not a federal crime. Health care fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 requires proof that you knowingly and willfully executed a scheme to defraud. Prosecutors must prove you acted with specific intent to deceive for financial gain. An experienced Virginia health care fraud lawyer can distinguish an innocent error from a prosecutable offense.
Can I go to jail for a medical billing error in Virginia?
No, not for a genuine error. Jail time requires proof of criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt. However, what you believe is an error may be viewed by federal investigators as part of a pattern of fraud. Never assume an audit or inquiry is routine. Consult with a medical billing fraud defense lawyer Virginia immediately if you are contacted.
Who investigates health care fraud charges in Virginia?
Multiple federal agencies can investigate, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. At the state level, the Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) is also active. These investigations are often lengthy and complex, requiring a lawyer familiar with federal procedure.
What should I do if I am contacted by a federal agent about a healthcare scheme?
First, be polite but decline to answer any substantive questions. Second, immediately state that you wish to speak with your attorney. Third, contact a healthcare scheme charge lawyer Virginia who practices in federal court. Anything you say can be used against you, and agents are trained to obtain incriminating statements. Your right to remain silent is your most important protection.
What are common defenses to health care fraud allegations?
Potential defenses include lack of intent (showing the activity was a mistake or misunderstanding), good faith reliance on professional advice, insufficient evidence, challenging the materiality of the alleged false statement, and procedural defenses such as statute of limitations or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. A Virginia health care fraud lawyer will identify the best strategy for your situation.
Internal Links: For more on federal defense, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. For related charges, consider our Virginia Criminal Defense page. For defense in a nearby jurisdiction, read about our work as a Fairfax criminal defense lawyer.
Page last verified and updated: 2026-04-02. Federal laws and procedures are subject to change. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for case-specific guidance regarding your health care fraud matter.