Week before last, the United States Supreme Court heard argument in State Farm Fire & Casualty Co. v. United States ex rel. Rigsby over the False Claim Act’s (FCA) “seal requirement.”  The controversy highlights an important statutory tool for government contractors who face allegations of making false claims for payment.  It also provides important lessons for those seeking to bring such allegations.

Under the FCA, a qui tam complaint must be filed under seal and remain under that seal for sixty days.  31 U.S.C. § 3730(b)(2).  During those sixty days, the Government can intervene in the case or request an extension of time.  Meanwhile, the plaintiff may not disclose the existence of the suit to the public.

Keep reading this article at: https://www.insidegovernmentcontracts.com/2016/11/supreme-court-hears-argument-false-claims-acts-seal-requirement/