Defending Against Federal and State Probes
Government investigations in New Jersey, whether initiated by federal or state agencies, are serious legal matters that require swift and strategic action. Investigations conducted by agencies like the FBI, IRS, Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Inspector General (OIG), and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can lead to severe penalties, including criminal charges, civil sanctions, and financial ruin. These investigations can target individuals, businesses, or entire industries, and without skilled legal representation, you may find yourself facing overwhelming legal consequences.
At Norman Spencer Law Group, we are dedicated to defending clients in New Jersey who are under investigation by federal or state agencies. Led by Mr. Norman Spencer, our firm has extensive experience representing clients in a wide variety of government investigations, including cases involving healthcare fraud, tax fraud, public corruption, and regulatory compliance violations. With a team that includes former federal agents, certified fraud examiners, and other experts, Mr. Spencer offers comprehensive defense strategies designed to protect your rights and minimize the impact of the investigation on your life and business.
Early Defense Strategies: Acting Before Charges Are Filed
One of the most effective ways to defend against a government investigation is to intervene early, before any formal charges are filed. If you suspect that you or your business is under investigation, it is critical to contact an experienced attorney like Mr. Spencer as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent investigators from gathering key evidence, limit the scope of the investigation, or even stop the case from moving forward.
At Norman Spencer Law Group, we take a proactive approach to defending clients during the investigative phase. This includes:
- Conducting an internal investigation: We work to gather evidence that supports your case, identify potential legal vulnerabilities, and develop a strategy for dealing with investigators.
- Communicating with government agencies: Spencer and his team handle all communications with federal or state agencies, ensuring that you do not inadvertently say or do anything that could harm your case.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: In many cases, we are able to negotiate with federal prosecutors to resolve the matter before charges are filed. This can involve reducing the scope of the investigation, resolving compliance issues, or settling civil claims without criminal penalties.
By taking control of the situation early, Mr. Spencer often helps clients avoid the most severe consequences of government investigations.
Defending Against Federal Healthcare Fraud Investigations
Healthcare fraud is one of the most aggressively prosecuted areas of federal law. The federal government devotes substantial resources to investigating and prosecuting healthcare providers suspected of defrauding Medicare, Medicaid, or other government healthcare programs. These investigations are typically conducted by the OIG in conjunction with the DOJ, FBI, and other federal agencies.
Common allegations in healthcare fraud investigations include:
- Submitting false claims: Billing for services that were never provided or were medically unnecessary.
- Upcoding: Billing for a higher level of service than what was actually provided.
- Kickbacks: Offering or accepting illegal payments in exchange for patient referrals.
- Violating the Stark Law: Making improper financial arrangements with other healthcare providers.
Healthcare fraud cases are complex and often involve extensive documentation, billing records, and compliance issues. Mr. Spencer works closely with healthcare providers to review their billing practices, address compliance concerns, and defend against the allegations. With the help of certified fraud examiners and former federal agents, Mr. Spencer builds a strong defense that challenges the government’s evidence and minimizes the potential impact on your practice.
IRS and Tax Fraud Investigations in New Jersey
The IRS aggressively investigates individuals and businesses suspected of committing tax fraud or tax evasion. These investigations often arise from discrepancies in tax filings, whistleblower complaints, or audits. Common tax fraud allegations include:
- Underreporting income: Failing to accurately report all sources of income.
- Falsifying deductions: Claiming deductions for expenses that were not actually incurred or inflating the amount of deductions.
- Failing to pay employment taxes: Employers who fail to properly withhold or pay payroll taxes can face serious penalties.
Mr. Spencer works with former IRS agents and forensic accountants to thoroughly examine the government’s case, challenge the evidence, and develop a strategy to protect your financial interests. Whether you are under investigation for personal or business tax issues, Mr. Spencer is prepared to provide a vigorous defense.
Defending Against Public Corruption and Bribery Investigations
Allegations of public corruption and bribery are highly sensitive and often involve prominent public figures or businesses that interact with the government. Federal prosecutors aggressively pursue cases involving bribery, kickbacks, and other forms of corruption, and convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and damage to your reputation.
Common types of public corruption investigations include:
- Bribery of public officials: Offering or receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts, regulatory favors, or other benefits.
- Illegal kickbacks: Paying or receiving kickbacks in exchange for securing government work or influencing official decisions.
- Embezzlement of government funds: Misusing funds allocated for government programs or projects.
If you are facing a public corruption investigation, Mr. Spencer provides a defense that challenges the government’s narrative, attacks the credibility of key witnesses, and works to protect your freedom and reputation.
Government Contractor Fraud and False Claims Act Investigations
Businesses that contract with the federal or state government are frequently the subject of fraud investigations, particularly in industries such as construction, defense, and healthcare. Government contractor fraud cases often involve allegations of overbilling, falsifying qualifications, or failing to meet the terms of a contract. These investigations are typically pursued under the False Claims Act (FCA), which allows the government to seek treble damages and penalties for fraudulent claims.
Mr. Spencer has successfully defended numerous clients against False Claims Act investigations, working to show that the alleged fraud did not occur or that the government’s claims are based on misunderstandings or mistakes. By carefully reviewing contract terms, billing records, and compliance procedures, Mr. Spencer builds a defense that protects his clients from the financial and legal consequences of FCA violations.
Why Choose Norman Spencer Law Group for Government Investigations?
When facing a federal or state government investigation, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and has the experience to provide a strong, effective defense. At Norman Spencer Law Group, we offer:
- Extensive experience: Spencer has years of experience defending clients in a wide range of government investigations, including healthcare fraud, tax fraud, and public corruption.
- Expert team: Our team includes certified fraud examiners, former federal agents, and other professionals who provide invaluable support in analyzing evidence and building defense strategies.
- Proactive defense: We take a proactive approach to government investigations, working to prevent charges from being filed and minimizing the impact of the investigation on your life and business.
Contact Norman Spencer Law Group Today
If you are under investigation by a federal or state agency, it is critical to act quickly to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Norman Spencer Law Group is here to provide the legal representation you need to navigate government investigations in New Jersey. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you defend against government investigations.