Medicaid Fraud Lawyer Maryland, MD
Allegations of Medicaid fraud can abruptly disrupt your career, your professional license, and your freedom. When the Maryland Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the United States Attorney’s Office, or a state investigative agency begins an inquiry, the matter is treated as a serious criminal investigation from the start. A charge of health care fraud, false billing, or kickback schemes carries the weight of both state and federal enforcement. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defend health care providers, business owners, and individuals facing these investigations throughout Maryland—from the District Court of MD for Montgomery County to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Reach our Maryland location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your specific situation.
What Medicaid Fraud Means in Maryland
Maryland prosecutes Medicaid fraud under its criminal code as well as under federal statutes when the alleged conduct involves the jointly funded Medicaid program. The Office of the Attorney General regularly coordinates with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and investigations can encompass records reviews, audits, interviews of employees, and search warrants. Common allegations include billing for services not rendered, upcoding, unbundling, paying or receiving kickbacks for patient referrals, and falsifying medical necessity documentation. The criminal exposure is substantial, and a conviction can lead to incarceration, restitution orders, exclusion from federal health care programs, and the loss of a professional license.
Maryland courts apply the state’s sentencing guidelines, and the assigned judge has discretion within the statutory range. Because the Medicaid program involves both state and federal dollars, a single investigation can lead to parallel proceedings—a state criminal charge and a federal indictment. This dual-track reality makes early intervention critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team understand the interplay between Maryland criminal procedure and federal enforcement priorities, and they work to position each client to make informed decisions from the outset.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Medicaid Fraud Cases
Defending a health care fraud case begins with preserving evidence and building a complete factual record before charges are filed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team review billing records, internal compliance policies, and correspondence with state and federal payers to understand the government’s theory of the case. They engage qualified financial analysts and medical billing professionals to interpret complex data sets and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims.
Once the government’s position becomes clear, the team works to narrow the issues—challenging search warrants, moving to suppress evidence obtained without proper authority, and negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges. If a resolution cannot be reached, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare each matter as though it will go to trial, developing cross-examination strategies and identifying expert testimony that supports the defense. The timeline of a fraud case varies by the volume of records and the court’s calendar, but clients receive candid assessments at every stage.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He brings a thorough understanding of how government investigations are built—and how they can be challenged.
The firm’s Of Counsel team contributes extensive combined legal experience in criminal defense matters. The team includes attorneys who have served as state prosecutors in Maryland and who have handled complex fraud cases in both state and federal courts. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes Medicaid fraud in Maryland?
Medicaid fraud involves knowingly providing false information or engaging in deceptive practices to obtain payments or benefits from the Maryland Medical Assistance Program. The offense may include billing for services not performed, falsifying patient records to justify higher reimbursement, paying kickbacks for patient referrals, and submitting duplicate claims. Both the provider and any individual who knowingly participates in the scheme may face criminal liability. The state Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates such cases and can bring charges under the Maryland Criminal Law Article or refer the matter for federal prosecution.
What are the potential penalties for a Medicaid fraud conviction in Maryland?
The penalties for a Medicaid fraud conviction depend on the amount of money involved, whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, and the defendant’s criminal history. A felony conviction can result in a prison sentence, significant fines, and mandatory restitution. Additionally, a conviction almost always triggers exclusion from participation in all federal health care programs, which can end a health care career. Federal charges under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1347 carry their own sentencing ranges. Because the potential consequences are severe, early legal guidance is important.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for Medicaid fraud?
Yes; securing experienced counsel at the earliest stage of an investigation can protect your rights and influence the outcome. Investigators may contact you, your employees, or your billing staff before any charges are filed. Anything you say—even in a casual conversation or during a routine audit—can later be used in a criminal case. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, coordinate the preservation of records, and evaluate whether the government’s inquiry is civil, criminal, or both. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. advises individuals to request an attorney before speaking with law enforcement.
How does a defense attorney challenge Medicaid fraud charges?
A defense attorney challenges Medicaid fraud charges by examining the government’s evidence for billing errors, insufficient intent, or improper investigative methods. Common defenses include demonstrating that billing mistakes were unintentional, that the services were actually provided, or that the government’s analysis of billing data is flawed. Procedural challenges—such as motions to suppress evidence obtained through an invalid search warrant—can also be raised. Each case is fact-specific, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team tailor the defense to the unique circumstances of the investigation.
Should I speak with investigators without an attorney?
No; you should not speak with investigators, auditors, or law enforcement agents without first consulting an attorney. Even if you believe you have done nothing wrong, statements made during an interview can be misinterpreted or taken out of context. Law enforcement agents are trained to gather information that supports a prosecution. By having counsel present, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that any information you provide is carefully considered. To discuss your options, reach our Maryland location at (888) 437-7747.
How do I choose a Medicaid fraud defense lawyer in Maryland?
Look for an attorney with experience in both criminal defense and health care regulatory matters, and who is familiar with the courts where your case may be heard. Medicaid fraud cases often involve parallel state and federal proceedings, so it is helpful to work with a team that practices in multiple jurisdictions. You should feel comfortable asking about the attorney’s background in fraud investigations and trial preparation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team have concentrated their practice on criminal defense for many years and are available to discuss your situation. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
For reference, official Virginia legal resources: Virginia Code, SCC business entity filings, Virginia Courts.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.