Every week, I receive at least 5 calls from clients who made the same stupid mistake. They spoke to a Medicaid investigator from the Bureau of Fraud Investigation before they consulted with a lawyer.
It usually begins innocently. An investigator sends the client a letter asking for information. The client calls the investigator, who starts asking questions about where they live, where they work, where their bank accounts are, and how much they earn.
By the time the phone call ends, the client is in big trouble.
Take the client who called today. He received a letter stating that he owed $15,800 for Medicaid benefits during a period when he was not eligible. He called the Medicaid fraud investigator to find out how this happened. The investigator started asking questions about his employment, family, and income. Wanting to appear cooperative, the client answered all of the Medicaid investigator's questions.
At the end of the phone call, the investigator was very polite. She said "thank you" and promised to send the client a new letter with a different amount.
The new letter demanded that the client pay $48,300, or more than three times the original amount.
Do not make the same mistake. An experienced Medicaid fraud lawyer can speak to the investigator for you, find out what the problems are, and help resolve the problems without making them worse.
Here is what you need to now if you receive a letter from the Bureau of Fraud Investigation:
- You have the right to remain silent and to consult with a lawyer. Over the past 250 years, tens of thousands of Americans have died in wars to protect those rights. Say nothing. Call a lawyer. It is the least you can do to honor the bravery of those who ensured you have those rights.
- Initial consultations are free and confidential. An experienced Medicaid fraud lawyer will review your tax returns, bank statements, and other documents to determine whether you have a problem. If you have a problem, the lawyer will tell you how to handle it.
- If you need help from a lawyer, the fees are reasonable. Sometimes you can resolve an investigation on your own, without a lawyer. Other times, you may face civil litigation or even criminal prosecution that can send you to prison. Each case is different. Only an experienced Medicaid fraud lawyer can advise you after reviewing your documents.
To arrange a free and confidential consultation with an experienced Medicaid fraud lawyer, call John Howley, Esq. at (212) 601-2728.
John Howley, Esq.
350 Fifth Avenue, 59th Floor
New York, New York 10118
(212) 601-2728