Miami Phantom Billing Defense Lawyer
As a doctor or other healthcare provider, being accused of phantom billing fraud can spell the end of your medical practice or put you in jail. Even avoiding the most serious penalties can still be extremely costly and damaging. Fortunately, help is available. The Baez Law Firm is your source for local, skilled, and experienced criminal defense lawyers who take the time to help you understand your rights and the best course of action when faced with charges like these. Contact our Miami phantom billing defense lawyers today for your chance at a successful resolution of the charges against you.
What Is Phantom Billing?
Phantom billing is a type of healthcare fraud that involves billing for medical services or procedures that were never provided. This fraudulent activity can occur in various ways, including:
- Submitting claims for services not rendered: Charging for medical procedures or treatments that were not performed.
- Billing for more expensive services than those provided: Inflating the cost of actual services rendered by billing for higher-priced procedures.
- Duplicating claims: Submitting multiple claims for the same service to receive multiple payments.
Phantom billing is illegal under federal and state laws, including the federal False Claims Act and Florida Statutes 409.920. Healthcare providers, such as doctors, clinics, and hospitals, can be charged with phantom billing if they knowingly engage in these fraudulent practices.
The penalties for phantom billing are severe. A criminal conviction can result in substantial fines, restitution, and imprisonment. Depending on the severity and extent of the fraud, sentences can range from several years to decades in prison. Civil penalties can be imposed as well. Under the False Claims Act, offenders may be liable for triple the amount of damages sustained by the government plus additional financial penalties for each false claim submitted.
Being found guilty of phantom billing practices brings severe professional consequences as well. Healthcare providers found guilty of phantom billing may face the revocation of their medical licenses and exclusion from participating in federal healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, being charged with healthcare fraud can severely damage a professional’s reputation, affecting future career opportunities and business relationships.
How The Baez Law Firm Can Help
At The Baez Law Firm, our experienced and passionate legal team understands the complexities and high stakes involved in healthcare fraud cases. We are committed to providing aggressive and strategic defense to protect your rights and reputation. Our legal team, equipped with access to top experts and resources, will thoroughly investigate the charges against you. We will examine all aspects of the case, including billing records, patient files, and witness statements, to build a strong defense. Potential defense strategies may include:
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that any billing discrepancies were unintentional errors rather than deliberate fraudulent actions.
- Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence to prove that there is not enough proof to support the allegations of phantom billing.
- Mistaken Identity: Showing that the accused party was not responsible for the fraudulent billing practices and that another individual or entity was at fault.
While we are prepared to vigorously defend you in court, we also recognize that each case is unique and may benefit from alternative resolutions. Our firm is skilled in negotiating favorable plea agreements that can mitigate the potential penalties you face. This may include reduced charges or lighter sentences in exchange for cooperation or restitution.
The Baez Law Firm is known for its dedication to going the extra mile for our clients. We understand the immense pressure and stress that come with being charged with healthcare fraud, and we are here to support you every step of the way. From the initial investigation to the resolution of your case, our team will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Contact The Baez Law Firm Today
If you or your Miami healthcare practice is under investigation for phantom billing, do not wait to seek legal representation. The consequences of a conviction are too severe to face without a robust defense, and a skilled attorney can begin helping even before charges are filed. Call The Baez Law Firm today at 800-588-BAEZ for immediate assistance, or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced healthcare criminal defense attorneys. We are ready to fight for your rights and protect your professional future. Se habla español.
