Qui tamactions: fighting fraud against the government

Purpose - This paper seeks to provide auditors, forensic accountants, investigators, regulators, financial managers, lawyers, law enforcement personnel, academics, and others with a basic overview of the steps in and elements of aqui tamlegal claim, limitations on aqui tamclaim, protection for a whistleblower employee, and the role ofqui tamlitigation in the fight against fraud. Design/methodology/approach - A sample of types of recentqui tamfraud cases is highlighted for the reader. The steps in filing aqui tamclaim are described along with the limitations of pursuing such a lawsuit. The paper includes a statutory and legal case study analysis of each required element of proof in aqui tamclaim. Analysis of actualqui tamcourt cases illustrates the importance of private civil lawsuits in combating fraud committed against the US Government. Findings - This paper provides readers with information about the substantial recoveries earned by successfulqui tamplaintiffs. Also, the necessary steps in and elements of aqui tamsuit are revealed. Technical legal details of various federal court rulings are distilled for readers. The important role of this unique type of lawsuit in the arsenal of those who fight against government fraud is emphasized. Originality/value - This paper fills an identified need to inform those involved in the fight against economic crime about an important tool that uncovers and deters fraud against the federal government.