Process

Whistleblowing Process – What happens next?

Step 1: Interview with the lawyer to discuss the possible fraud and any documents the whistleblower may have about the fraud.

Step 2: With the advice and help of the lawyer, decide if the case is worth pursuing.

Step 3: File a qui tam lawsuit, file a claim with the appropriate agency, or take any other appropriate actions.

Filing a Qui Tam Lawsuit

Step 4: Government* will start an investigation that could possibly include an interview with the whistleblower.

Step 5: Government will decide whether or not to act.

Step 6:

Government Decides To Act

Government usually takes control of the lawsuit.

Government Decides NOT To Act

The whistleblower can decide to continue with the lawsuit, however at any point the government can decide to intervene.

Step 7: Case goes to trial or is settled.

Step 4: Government* will start an investigation that could possibly include an interview with the whistleblower.

Step 5: Government will decide whether or not to act.

Step 6:

Government Decides To Act

Government usually takes control of the case.

Government Decides NOT To Act

Case is over.

*Once the government is involved it is out of the whistleblower’s control, even if the whistleblower changes his or her mind.

** This is an example of one common way this process occurs. Every case is different and can have a different process.