HKM Wins at Trial. HKM served as co-counsel representing defendants Delta Inn, Inc. and Hung G. Kim in a multi-million claim regarding the ownership of Delta Inn. On December 19, 2011, after a four-week bench trial in King County Superior Court, the court issued a verdict in favor of defendants. Soon In Kim v. Delta Inn et. al., 10-2-19547-5 SEA (King County Superior Court).

Congratulations to Partners Donald W. Heyrich and Dan Kalish who were recognized by Washington Law and Politics once again. Donald W. Heyrich was named a SuperLawyer by the magazine, and Dan Kalish was named a Rising Star.

HKM Wins Jury Verdict For Former Employee. HKM represented plaintiff Wendy Dorn in two-week jury trial regarding overtime wages. On September 15, 2011, jury returned verdict in favor of Ms. Dorn and, on November 30, 2011, the court awarded attorneys’ fees. Dorn v. Kent Post No. 15 et. al., 10-2-10169-1 KNT (King County Superior Court).

HKM Obtains Class Certification in Overtime Claim. On September 13, 2011, the Federal District Court in Oregon certified a class of Sleep Country sales associates in an overtime claim against the company. HKM represents the Sleep Country class. Shanklin et.al. v. Sleep Country USA, Inc., 3:10-CV 00406-MO (D. Or.).

HKM Writes Employment Discrimination Section of the Washington State Practice Manual. As in previous year, HKM has written the Employment Discrimination section of the Washington State Practice Manual. The publication is expected to be published in early 2012.

HKM Expands with New Hire. On September 28, 2011, attorney Cindy Lin joined HKM as a full-time associate attorney. You can learn more about Ms. Lin here.

HKM Prevails in Non-Compete Case. HKM represented Robert Heffner, current CEO of Falck North America, in non-compete lawsuit filed by Rural Metro Corp., after Mr. Heffner left Rural/Metro. Rural/Metro dismissed the case on November 4, 2010 after Heffner prevailed at TRO hearing. Rural Metro Corp. v. Heffner, 2:10-CV-02292-GMS (D. Ariz.).

Washington Qui Tam Attorney

Understanding Qui Tam Lawsuits and Claims

When a lawsuit is filed under the Federal False Claims Act it is commonly referred to as a qui tam action or suit. This type of lawsuit is filed by a private citizen (also known as a "whistleblower"), on behalf of the government, against individuals or companies who are believed to have been participants in fraudulent government contracting practices. As a reward for the citizen standing up and doing the right thing by exposing the illegal action and fraud against the government, they are usually entitled to between 15-25% of the recovered penalty fees.

These lawsuits are most often based on multiple, significant violations of fraud or criminal acts. They are not based on minor or technical violations or errors. Any individual who has credible, verifiable information about fraudulent claims for federal funds may file a qui tam action via an attorney. It is of note that qui tam suits are initially kept under seal for 60 days so the Department of Justice can investigate, review and determine if they too will join the suit.

If you feel you have credible information and wish to file a qui tam lawsuit, you need to consult with a Washington employment law attorney from our firm right away. Don't let an employer intimidate you because you have chosen to do the right thing and file a qui tam action. We can help you not only prepare your case but protect you from a wrongful discharge or other retaliation in violation of state and federal employment regulations.

Examples of What Would Constitute a Qui Tam Suit

While individuals or companies may make minor technical violations or errors now and again, significant and continuous attempts to fraudulently gain funds from the government are grounds for qui tam suits. Some examples of what would be grounds for a qui tam suit are:

Multiple fraudulent health care or Medicare claims
Massive or continuous overcharging for items or services
Extensive and intentional exaggeration of time spent with clients/patients
Severe underpayment of royalties owed
Payment received for knowingly defective products supplied to the government
Misallocation or redirection of funds specifically approved for another project or program

We understand going up against a powerful individual or large corporation by filing a qui tam suit can be a frightening prospect. Just keep in mind that it will not do anyone any good to let this kind of fraud or criminal action go unreported. The government also strongly supports and rewards individuals for filing qui tam suits and helping recover fraudulently acquired funds.

With over 40 years combined experience and an exceptionally qualified team of attorneys including a former deputy prosecutor, former judges and a former partner at one of the most prestigious law firms in the U.S., we have the skills and experience you will want and need representing you.

Contact a Washington employment law attorney at HKM Employment Attorneys today regarding a qui tam case .