Health Care Fraud Lawyer in Rappahannock County, Virginia — Federal Defense
Health care fraud is a serious federal crime prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are under investigation for medical billing fraud or a healthcare scheme charge in Rappahannock County, you need a Health Care Fraud lawyer Rappahannock County with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1347.
Federal Health Care Fraud Law in Virginia
Health care fraud is defined under federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 1347. It involves knowingly and willfully executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from such a program by false pretenses. This covers a wide range of activities, from billing for services not rendered to paying or receiving illegal kickbacks for patient referrals.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal health care fraud statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1347 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court serving Rappahannock County, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Federal Investigation and Court Process in Rappahannock County
Federal health care fraud cases in Rappahannock County typically begin with an investigation by agencies like the FBI, HHS-OIG, or DEA. These investigations are complex and can last months or years before any charges are filed. A Health Care Fraud lawyer Rappahannock County from our firm can engage during the investigative stage to protect your rights. The case would be prosecuted in the Alexandria or Richmond division of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Initial Investigation: You may be contacted by federal agents or receive a subpoena for records. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: The prosecution presents evidence to a secret grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Arraignment: If indicted, you will appear in federal court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If not, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which can include substantial prison terms and restitution.
Potential Penalties for Health Care Fraud
In the federal system, health care fraud carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and multi-million dollar fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count; 20 years if serious bodily injury results; life if death results | Up to $250,000 per count (individual) or $500,000 (organization) | Mandatory restitution, forfeiture of assets, exclusion from federal health programs, permanent criminal record. |
| Anti-Kickback Statute (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years per violation | Up to $25,000 per violation | Civil penalties up to $50,000 per violation, treble damages, program exclusion. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence common in health care fraud cases. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and the aggressive tactics of federal prosecutors.
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
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Approach
Our approach to federal health care fraud defense involves immediate action to analyze the government’s evidence, identify weaknesses, and develop a strategic defense focused on challenging intent, knowledge, and the validity of the underlying claims. We have handled numerous complex federal matters. For a medical billing fraud defense lawyer Rappahannock County, our detailed review of billing records and compliance protocols is essential.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Health Care Fraud Defense Serving Rappahannock County
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing federal charges in Rappahannock County, including Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill. We are accessible for consultations to discuss your healthcare scheme charge lawyer Rappahannock County needs.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Health Care Fraud Defense FAQs
What is health care fraud?
It is a federal crime involving schemes to defraud government or private health insurance programs, such as Medicare or Medicaid, through false billing, kickbacks, or unnecessary services.
Who investigates health care fraud?
Multiple federal agencies investigate, including the FBI, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
What are common examples of health care fraud?
Common examples include billing for services not rendered, upcoding (billing for a more expensive service), unbundling (billing separately for grouped procedures), and receiving kickbacks for patient referrals.
What should I do if I am contacted by a federal agent about health care fraud?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, and agents are trained to obtain incriminating statements.
Can I go to prison for health care fraud?
Yes. Conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 can result in up to 10 years in federal prison per count, with significantly higher penalties if injury or death results.