The False Claims Act Seal: Does It Bind and Gag the Defendant?
December 01, 2017
<b><i>Part One of a Two-Part Article</i></b><p>A company that finds itself the target of a federal fraud investigation often faces the fraught question of whether it may, or even must, disclose the existence of that investigation to third parties, such as its investors, shareholders, major creditors, or insurers. The question can be even more complicated if that investigation is being pursued under the False Claims Act and arises as the result of a sealed <i>qui tam</i> complaint.
Internal Whistleblowers
December 01, 2017
<b><i>SCOTUS Review of Dodd-Frank to Change the Landscape</i></b><p>In June, the Supreme Court granted <i>certiorari</i> in <i>Digital Realty Trust Inc. v. Somers</i>, to review a Ninth Circuit decision regarding SEC whistleblowing protections. The Court's ruling is highly anticipated, as it will clarify the landscape for whistleblower protections.
The Deductibility of FCA Payments in Light of <b><i>Kokesh</i></b>
December 01, 2017
<b><i>A Business Expense?</i></b><p>In negotiating FCA or similar settlements with the government, one key consideration is the tax treatment of any payment. While not in the context of deductibility, the Supreme Court this year, in<i>Kokesh v. SEC</i>, analyzed whether disgorgement in an SEC enforcement action was punitive or compensatory.
In the Courts
December 01, 2017
A rare ruling provides insight into the narrow scope that the attorney-client privilege and attorney work product privilege are afforded in criminal investigations.
New-Wave Legal Challenges for Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies
November 02, 2017
As the adoption of cryptocurrencies spreads throughout the business and financial sectors, so too do the concerns that lack of regulation render the new-age currency susceptible to fraud, manipulation, and to being used as a vehicle for money laundering. Nevertheless, recent efforts by U.S. enforcement agencies to apply and enforce financial regulations mean greater scrutiny than ever before.
Follow Up on False Claims Act Actions
November 02, 2017
This article discusses what you can do to mitigate against the risk inherent in prolonged exposure. While a 50-state survey is beyond the scope of this article, the authors identify issues that should be on the forefront of your mind if faced with potential state false claims act liability.
In the Courts
November 02, 2017
On Oct. 4, 2017, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued an Order concerning FBME Bank's appeal of a 2014 decision against it by the United States Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCen). Here's a look at the ruling.
Business Crimes Hotline
November 02, 2017
Analysis of a case involving a man who lied about his role as a government agent.
