It is a heavy burden to face Medicaid fraud charges while trying to maintain a career and a family. Understanding the specific legal risks of a conviction can help one prepare for the journey ahead.
The high cost of Medicaid deception
If a court finds a person guilty, the government imposes strict punishments. The list below outlines the primary penalties the legal system applies to those convicted of Medicaid fraud:
- Long prison terms: A person faces up to 10 years in prison for each count of health care fraud. This timeframe can double if the government proves the actions caused physical harm to a patient.
- Heavy fines: The False Claims Act allows the government to collect three times the amount of money lost plus extra fines for every single incorrect bill. These costs quickly add up and can drain a person’s entire life savings.
- Loss of job rights: The Office of Inspector General places convicted individuals on an exclusion list that stops them from working with any federal health program. This often means a person can never work in the medical field again.
- Asset forfeiture: Prosecutors sometimes take homes, cars or bank accounts that they link to the illegal activity. This asset forfeiture process can leave a family with very few resources.
Beyond the courtroom, the social stigma can damage a person’s standing in their local community and hurt private relationships. The constant emotional stress of a public trial can also lead to deep anxiety and exhaustion for the entire family.
Aiming to protect one’s future and family
A Medicaid fraud case is a major life event that requires a calm and steady approach. Building a defense can involve numerous records that require a careful and patient eye to find key evidence. By seeking legal counsel, a defendant may receive guidance and support for challenging their white collar crime charges and safeguarding their rights as they aim to protect their future and family.
