Qui tam lawsuits are a tool for citizens to help combat fraud against the government.
Understanding them sheds light on how ordinary individuals can help uphold integrity and justice.
What is a qui tam lawsuit?
According to the Department of Justice, whistleblowers filed 712 qui tam cases in fiscal year 2023. Qui tam, derived from Latin, means “he who sues on behalf of the king as well as for himself.” It is a provision within the law that allows private individuals, often referred to as whistleblowers, to file lawsuits against those who have defrauded the government. These lawsuits typically involve fraudulent activities such as submitting false claims for government funds or overcharging the government for goods or services.
How does it work?
When an individual witnesses fraudulent activity against the government, they can file a qui tam lawsuit. They submit a complaint, along with evidence of the fraud, to the appropriate government authorities. If the government decides to pursue the case, the whistleblower may receive a portion of the monetary recovery. This encourages individuals to come forward with information about fraud.
Why are qui tam lawsuits important?
Qui tam lawsuits are a safeguard against fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars. When individuals take legal action against wrongdoers, they help ensure accountability within industries that may be susceptible to fraudulent practices. Additionally, qui tam lawsuits can lead to significant financial recoveries for the government.
When an individual sees someone committing fraud against the government, it is their duty to file a qui tam lawsuit.