Lakewood Medicare/Medi-Cal Fraud Defense Lawyers
Are you being investigated or charged with Medicare or Medi-Cal fraud?
If so, you must understand how serious these charges are. Maybe you’re a doctor or billing specialist who made an honest mistake. Or maybe you’re a caregiver—or even a patient—just trying to follow a system that’s confusing and full of red tape. No matter how it happened, the fear is real. Your job, your license, maybe even your freedom—everything feels like it’s on the line.
And the truth? These cases aren’t simple. Prosecutors dig deep, and they often assume the worst right from the start. That’s why you don’t just need a lawyer—you need someone who gets how these cases really work and knows how to fight for you.
When you’re being accused of Medicare/Medi-Cal fraud, everything can feel like it’s moving fast—and not in your favor. That’s why having the right legal team behind you matters more than ever. At Robin D. Perry & Associates, our Lakewood Medicare/Medi-Cal fraud defense attorneys have spent over 25 years helping people in situations just like yours. We don’t just know the law—we know how to protect your future when it’s on the line.
Our office headquarters is in Long Beach, just a short drive from Lakewood, right off the 710 or PCH. You’ll find us at 100 Oceangate, Suite 525, Long Beach, CA 90802, with easy parking nearby. When you’re ready to talk, give us a call at 562-216-2944 or reach out through our contact form. Your consultation is private, and your peace of mind starts with a simple conversation.
Recent Review:
“I am beyond grateful for having Robin as my attorney during a great time of need. Robin was accessible, available, and went beyond my expectations when it came to representing my best interest in court. He was very knowledgeable about my situation and had no problem explaining the legal process along the way. I couldn’t recommend him and his office more. Thanks!”
What Are Medi-Cal and Medicare Fraud?
Medi-Cal is California’s state-run health insurance program that serves low-income, elderly, and disabled residents. Medicare, on the other hand, is a federally managed program providing healthcare benefits mainly to retirees. Both programs are designed to provide critical support but are often subject to allegations of fraud by providers, recipients, or third parties.
If false or misleading information is used to obtain benefits or compensation, you might be accused of fraud.
Fraud by Healthcare Providers
- Submitting False Claims: Billing for services, treatments, or equipment that were never provided.
- Upcoding: Billing for more expensive medical procedures than those actually performed.
- Unnecessary Services: Ordering tests or procedures that are not medically necessary to increase reimbursements.
- Kickbacks: Offering or accepting kickbacks in exchange for referrals of patients or services.
- Falsifying Documentation: Changing or falsifying patient files to secure higher reimbursements.
Fraud by Program Recipients
- Making False Statements: Providing inaccurate information to qualify for benefits.
- Using Benefits Fraudulently: Misusing coverage, such as sharing insurance cards or purchasing non-healthcare-related goods.
- Resale of Prescriptions: Selling prescribed medications obtained through Medi-Cal or Medicare.
Fraudulent actions can lead to investigations by state and federal agencies, including the California Department of Insurance, the California Department of Health Care Services, or the Office of Inspector General (OIG).
The Importance of Intent in Medi-Cal and Medicare Fraud Cases
Healthcare fraud is categorized as a financial crime, but not all errors or discrepancies amount to criminal activity. Under California Penal Code Section 550, a key component of fraud is intent to defraud. Prosecutors must prove that the accused knowingly:
- Made false statements or misrepresentations that are material to the reimbursement process.
- Submitted claims or received benefits knowing they were not entitled to them.
Mistakes due to bookkeeping errors, misunderstandings of regulatory requirements, or administrative confusion do not constitute fraud. This distinction is central to defending against charges and could mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.
Penalties for Medi-Cal and Medicare Fraud in California
Medi-Cal and Medicare fraud charges are wobblers. This means that the prosecution can charge you with either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of your case.
Misdemeanor Penalties
- Jail time of up to six months in county jail.
- Fines of up to $1,000.
- Restitution payments to compensate the government for financial losses.
- Informal probation.
Felony Penalties
- Prison sentences ranging from two to five years.
- Fines of up to $10,000.
- Restitution obligations.
- Formal probation.
Additionally, a conviction can lead to collateral consequences, such as disqualification from participating in Medi-Cal or Medicare programs, professional license revocation, and significant damage to personal and professional credibility.
Defending Against Medi-Cal and Medicare Fraud Charges
Healthcare fraud cases are complicated. They often involve piles of paperwork, detailed billing codes, and expert opinions that can be hard to understand without the right help. That’s why these cases need a careful and strategic defense. Our Lakewood Medicare and Medi-Cal fraud lawyers take the time to examine every piece of evidence, like billing records, contracts, and audit reports, to find mistakes, gaps, or weaknesses in the case against you.
In many situations, we’re able to show that the issue was caused by a simple error or miscommunication—not fraud. And if the evidence looks strong, we can step in early to talk with prosecutors, working to reduce the charges or find another way to resolve the case with less damage to your future.
Contact Our Lakewood Medicare/Medi-Cal Fraud Defense Attorneys
Facing Medi-Cal or Medicare fraud allegations is overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle this alone. With our experienced Lakewood Medicare/Medi-Cal fraud defense attorneys, you can rest easier knowing you have a team on your side fighting for you and your future..
Scared? Unsure what to do next? We’ll listen, explain your options, and help you take back control—starting with one phone call. Call The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates today at 562-216-2944 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
