Frequently Asked Questions
about
Whistleblowing

  1. What IS a "Whistleblower" ?
  2. What should I do BEFORE I make a report/disclosure?
  3. HOW show I make a report?
  4. WHO should I send my report to?
  5. What could happen to me if I DON'T make a report?
  6. Could I get a $REWARD$ for making a report?
  7. Am I protected from reprisal?
  8. What is considered a "reprisal"?
  9. What should I do if I believe I have been subjected to reprisals?
  10. What rights do I have if I am questioned about a Whistleblower matter?


Could I get a $REWARD$ for making a report? ?

Maybe...

Currently, Arizona is one of the few states that does not have statutes that reward those that report fraud, waste, or abuse of government funds.

BUT...

If the department, project, or contract is "Federally Funded", it may be covered under a federal law known as the False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. §§3729-3733). Under this federal law, those who knowingly submit, or cause another person or entity to submit, false claims for payment of government funds are liable for three times the government's damages plus civil penalties of $5,500 to $11,000 per false claim.

Included in this law is a special provision that both protect and reward Whistleblowers for their honesty and patriotism. This provision is know as the "Qui Tam" provisions.


What are the "Qui Tam" Whistleblower Provisions ?

The False Claims Act contains qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions. Qui tam is a unique mechanism in the law that allows citizens with evidence of fraud against government contracts and programs to sue, on behalf of the government, in order to recover the stolen funds. In compensation for the risk and effort of filing a qui tam case, the citizen whistleblower or "relator" may be awarded a portion of the funds recovered, typically between 15 and 25 percent. A qui tam suit initially remains under seal for at least 60 days during which the Department of Justice can investigate and decide whether to join the action.

You can find out more about the False Claims Act and its Whistleblower Provisions, at the Tax Payers Against Fraud web site.

Does The First Whistleblower provide legal assistance for "Qui Tam" Whistleblower suits?

At this time, no. It is beyond the capability of our resources.

But, YOU can help change that.

YOUR DONATION,

can make it possible for The First Whistleblower to provide education, information, and legal assistance to those who wish to protect Your TAX-DOLLARS from fraud, waste, and abuse.

In the future, The First Whistleblower intends to be a central point for filing and pursuing Whistleblower complaints on behalf of the general public.

The information on this page is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as substitute for advice from a qualified legal professional. Your rights and the laws concerning such will vary depending on your individual situation.