Health Care Fraud lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

Facing a federal health care fraud charge in Virginia Beach can be an overwhelming experience. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes these cases actively, often seeking substantial prison time and financial penalties. If you are under investigation or have been indicted, you need a defense team that understands both the federal criminal process and the specific procedures of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia—Norfolk Division. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced federal criminal defense representation to individuals in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, Oceana, and across the Hampton Roads region. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team are prepared to challenge the government’s case at every stage. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Health Care Fraud Means in Virginia Beach

Health care fraud is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1347. A person convicted of defrauding a health care benefit program faces a maximum prison term of 10 years, or life imprisonment if the fraud results in death.

Source: 18 U.S.C. § 1347. Read the statute

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

In Virginia Beach, federal health care fraud cases are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, one of the most active federal districts in the country. The Norfolk Division of the U.S. District Court handles most criminal matters arising in Virginia Beach and surrounding localities. Investigations often involve the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, or other federal agencies. Because these investigations routinely begin long before charges are filed, it is critical to involve experienced counsel at the earliest sign of government interest. The federal conviction rate is high, and the federal sentencing system offers no parole—only good-time credit of up to 54 days per year. Sentencing is guided by the United States Sentencing Guidelines, though judges retain discretion after the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Booker. The consequences of a conviction extend beyond incarceration to restitution orders, property forfeiture, and lasting professional license consequences for health care providers.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Health Care Fraud Cases

Health care fraud defenses require a comprehensive understanding of both the underlying billing and coding practices and the federal rules of criminal procedure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine each case from multiple angles. They scrutinize the government’s charging documents, review the search warrant affidavits and the grand jury materials, and evaluate whether the government’s evidence reliably supports each element of the charged offense. In many instances, the defense focuses on demonstrating that the billing or clinical documentation at issue was consistent with accepted industry standards and did not reflect a scheme to defraud. When appropriate, counsel engages in negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek dismissal of charges, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement that avoids the most severe sentencing guideline enhancements. If a trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare to litigate every contested issue, from suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence to cross-examination of government expert witnesses on complex medical coding and reimbursement matters. Throughout the process, the team keeps clients informed about the status of the case and the realistic range of potential outcomes, always mindful that each case presents unique facts and that Results may vary..

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor. His firsthand understanding of how federal cases are built gives him a distinct perspective when constructing defense strategies. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He works closely with his Of Counsel team—attorneys engaged through Excella who bring substantial experience in criminal litigation. The collective experience of Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel includes handling matters at the federal district court level, including appearances before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Contact the firm’s Richmond location, which serves clients in Virginia Beach and throughout Hampton Roads, at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against health care fraud charges?

Defense strategies in federal health care fraud cases typically involve challenging the evidence of intent, demonstrating that billing practices were consistent with applicable regulations, and contesting the government’s interpretation of complex medical documentation. An experienced attorney reviews every aspect of the investigation—from the search warrant’s scope to the reliability of coding and billing expert testimony. Where procedural violations occurred, suppression motions may limit the evidence available to prosecutors. In many cases, negotiation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office results in a resolution that avoids the most severe sentencing consequences. Each defense is tailored to the specific facts of the case and the applicable sentencing guidelines.

What should I do if I am facing health care fraud charges in Virginia?

If you learn you are under investigation or have been charged with federal health care fraud, your immediate priority should be to contact a defense attorney and refrain from discussing the case with anyone else. Do not speak with investigators without counsel present. Preserve all relevant records, including billing data, correspondence with insurers, and internal compliance documentation, but do not alter or destroy any documents—that can lead to additional obstruction charges. Early involvement of experienced counsel allows the attorney to assess the strength of the government’s case, intervene in the investigation, and potentially influence charging decisions before an indictment is returned.

What are the penalties for health care fraud in Virginia?

Under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, a conviction for health care fraud carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and up to life imprisonment if the fraud results in death. The actual sentence depends on the United States Sentencing Guidelines calculation, which considers factors such as the amount of the loss, the defendant’s role in the offense, and any prior criminal history. In addition to incarceration, the court may impose substantial fines, restitution to the victim health care programs, and forfeiture of assets traceable to the fraud. There is no parole in the federal system. Early strategic intervention by defense counsel can significantly impact the guidelines calculation and the ultimate sentence.

What is the difference between state and federal health care fraud charges?

Federal health care fraud charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office under federal statutes with generally harsher penalties and no parole, whereas state-level fraud charges may be brought by local prosecutors under Virginia law with different sentencing structures. The federal system uses the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are advisory but heavily influence judicial discretion. Federal cases are investigated by agencies like the FBI and HHS-OIG, and they proceed in U.S. District Court. An attorney experienced in federal criminal defense is essential to navigate the procedural differences and sentencing complexities unique to the federal system.

Can federal health care fraud charges be dropped in Virginia?

Federal prosecutors may choose to dismiss charges if the evidence is insufficient, if constitutional violations taint the investigation, or if pretrial motions successfully suppress key evidence. Early intervention by defense counsel can sometimes persuade the government not to seek an indictment in the first place. Once charges are filed, dismissal is less common but remains possible when a motion to dismiss demonstrates a legal defect in the indictment or when the government concludes that continued prosecution is not warranted after reviewing defense submissions. Each situation depends on the specific facts, and there is no assurance charges will be dismissed.

Do I need a lawyer for federal health care fraud in Virginia?

Federal health care fraud charges are complex, carry severe potential penalties, and involve procedural rules that differ from state court; retaining experienced federal criminal defense counsel is strongly advisable. An attorney can protect your rights during an investigation, challenge the government’s evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and, if necessary, take the case to trial. Self‑representation in federal court places a person at a significant disadvantage. A consultation with qualified counsel can help you understand your options and the possible outcomes before you make any decisions that could affect the course of the case.

Related Federal Criminal Defense Resources

Primary Sources

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Engaging Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Requires a signed engagement agreement. © 1997–2026 Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.