New Jersey Penalties For Health Care Claims Fraud (N.J.S.A 2C:21-4.3)
Doctors, chiropractors, nurses, and others working as practitioners in the healthcare industry can be charged at either the third degree level or the second degree level.
These are both equivalent to felonies, with a 3-5 year sentence for conviction of a third degree crime and a 5-10 year sentence for conviction of a second degree crime.
The distinction in the grade is based on the element of recklessness, with lighter charges for reckless conduct and steeper charges for intentional conduct.
Non-practitioners who are charged with Health Care Claims Fraud have a wider range of potential charges. Recklessly engaging in claims fraud is a crime of the fourth degree, with a maximum 18 month sentence, but a presumption of non-incarceration.
Knowingly engaging in the conduct is a crime of the third degree, and conviction will result in a 3-5 year sentence.
Knowingly committing more than five instances of claims fraud is a crime of the second degree, with a 5-10 year sentence.
Any conviction also carries substantial fines and fees, including a fine of five times the amount of the benefit you received.
Matthew Reisig has been a criminal defense attorney in New Jersey for nearly two decades, and has a strong record of success in delivering for his clients.
If you need help with health care claims fraud charges, call 732-625-9661 today and talk to an experienced New Jersey defense lawyer for free.