On March 20, 2025, a New Jersey-based pain clinic pleaded guilty to federal healthcare fraud, and the penalties are serious. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the clinic has agreed to pay both criminal and civil penalties for submitting false claims to Medicare and other government programs. The case involves upcoded procedures and billing for services never actually rendered—an all-too-common issue in high-volume medical practices.

If you're a healthcare provider, clinic owner, or medical billing professional in New Jersey, this kind of news isn't just unsettling—it hits close to home. The DOJ is making it clear: healthcare fraud is a top enforcement priority, and even small missteps can lead to criminal charges.

Don't assume good intentions will protect you. Fraud investigations move fast, and the consequences can be career-ending.

If you're under investigation—or think you could be—call the Lento Law Firm now at 888-535-3686 or send us a message online. Early defense intervention can make the difference between prison time and professional recovery.

What Happens When You're Accused of Healthcare Fraud in NJ?

Healthcare fraud is one of the most complex criminal charges in New Jersey. It spans both state and federal law and involves agencies like the DOJ, FBI, HHS-OIG, and the New Jersey Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

Here's what you might be facing:

• Overbilling or Upcoding Allegations: Even if it was a clerical mistake, the government may interpret it as intent to defraud.
• Kickbacks or Referral Payments: These are illegal under both state and federal statutes, including the Anti-Kickback Statute.
• Billing for Services Not Provided: If you can't produce documentation, it may be treated as evidence of fraud, especially when claims are submitted electronically, which can also trigger wire fraud charges.
• Civil and Criminal Penalties: You could face steep fines, exclusion from Medicare/Medicaid, or years in federal prison.
• Loss of Professional Licensure: Beyond the court, you may be reported to the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners or a relevant licensing body.

Many professionals caught up in these cases had no idea they were doing anything wrong—or didn't realize the legal definition of fraud was so broad.

The moment you suspect an issue, it's time to get defense counsel. Waiting until you're charged is often too late to protect your reputation or your freedom.

Why the Lento Law Firm Is the Team You Call When It's Federal Fraud

When you're staring down a fraud investigation, you don't just need a lawyer. You need a team that understands healthcare systems, complex billing, and the aggressive tactics used by federal prosecutors.

That's what sets the Lento Law Firm apart.

• We defend white-collar professionals and healthcare providers across New Jersey.
• We understand the fraud statutes and how they're applied in real life.
• We know when to push back, when to negotiate, and how to get ahead of an indictment.

Whether you're under audit, have received a target letter, or have already been charged, we can help.

Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or reach out through our secure contact form. When your livelihood is on the line, don't wait for a knock on the door. Let us fight for you.