Texas Law Firm Representing Clients Facing Federal Medicare and Medicaid Fraud Charges
Federal charges for healthcare fraud, including offenses related to Medicare and Medicaid, are among the most aggressively prosecuted white collar crimes in the United States. These cases often involve complex billing practices, extensive financial records, and allegations of intentional deception. If you or your medical practice has come under investigation or been charged with healthcare fraud in Texas, you may be facing years of imprisonment, severe financial penalties, and the loss of your professional license.
At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we represent clients throughout Texas and across the U.S. who are facing federal fraud investigations and charges. We understand how overwhelming these cases can be—especially when you are facing scrutiny from powerful federal agencies. With over two decades of experience defending clients in high-stakes criminal cases, we know how to build effective defense strategies against federal healthcare fraud allegations. Our firm provides experienced, strategic, and aggressive legal representation to medical professionals, business owners, and others accused of defrauding Medicare, Medicaid, or other government healthcare programs.
What Constitutes Healthcare Fraud Under Federal Law?
Healthcare fraud involves knowingly executing or attempting to execute a scheme to defraud a health care benefit program or to obtain, by false pretenses, any money or property owned by or under the control of any healthcare benefit program. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, a conviction for federal healthcare fraud can carry up to 10 years in prison per offense, along with significant financial penalties and restitution orders.
There are many actions that can lead to these types of charges, and defendants may face multiple counts based on individual billing claims or patient transactions. Some of the most common types of healthcare fraud include:
False Medicare or Medicaid Claims – Medical providers may be accused of billing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for services that were not provided, or for exaggerating the level of care delivered to patients in order to increase reimbursement rates.
Fraudulent Billing Practices – Allegations may include upcoding (billing for a more expensive service than was performed), unbundling (separating procedures that should be billed together), duplicate billing, or charging for unnecessary medical tests or services solely to increase payment.
Patient Identity Misuse – In some cases, individuals are accused of using another person’s Medicare or Medicaid ID to obtain healthcare benefits or treatments fraudulently. This may include stolen or purchased insurance cards, fake IDs, or unauthorized access to patient data.
Phantom Patients or Services – Some healthcare fraud charges are based on claims that providers billed for services never rendered or for patients who never actually received treatment.
Kickbacks and Referrals – Federal law prohibits any financial arrangement in which healthcare providers receive payments or rewards for referring patients to specific services or facilities. Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute can result in both fraud and conspiracy charges.
Prescription Fraud and Drug Diversion – Prescribing medications unnecessarily or without a legitimate medical reason, particularly controlled substances, can lead to fraud charges if linked to government reimbursements. Healthcare providers may also face prosecution for operating or participating in “pill mills” or illegal prescription schemes.
Strategic Defense for Medicare and Medicaid Fraud Cases in Texas
If you are being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the Office of Inspector General (OIG), or the FBI, it is important to seek legal representation before making any statements or handing over records. These agencies often conduct lengthy investigations before bringing charges—and they may already have obtained evidence through audits, whistleblower reports, or surveillance.
At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we represent doctors, nurses, pharmacists, clinic owners, and other professionals accused of healthcare fraud. Our defense team understands how these investigations unfold, and we can act quickly to protect your interests. We will review your billing practices, consult with industry experts, and develop a tailored defense strategy based on the facts of your case.
We may be able to show that:
The billing errors were the result of administrative mistakes, not intentional fraud
The services billed were medically necessary and properly documented
You were unaware of the actions of another employee or contractor
You acted in good faith and did not knowingly submit fraudulent claims
The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove fraud beyond a reasonable doubt
Experienced Legal Representation in Federal Fraud Cases
When facing federal Medicare or Medicaid fraud charges, your future and livelihood are at stake. A conviction could lead to prison time, heavy fines, asset forfeiture, and the end of your medical career. You need a defense attorney who understands the nuances of healthcare billing, federal investigative tactics, and the high burden of proof the government must meet.
Attorney Darlina Crowder has secured over 300 not-guilty verdicts and acquittals for clients throughout her 20+ years of practice. She and the team at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. have the skills and resources to stand up to federal prosecutors and protect your rights every step of the way.
Call 817-936-3167 to Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you have been accused of healthcare fraud involving Medicare, Medicaid, or another federal program, reach out to The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. as soon as possible. We provide strong legal representation for clients in Plano, Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, Garland, Frisco, and federal courts across Texas. Call 817-936-3167 today for a free, confidential consultation and start building your defense. Se habla Español.