FOIA Release Is FCA 'Public Disclosure'
Client Alert | less than 1 min read | 11.30.09
In U.S. ex rel. Ondis v. City of Woonsocket (1st Cir. Nov.18, 2009), the First Circuit concluded that, under the False Claims Act's public disclosure bar, courts lack subject-matter jurisdiction over qui tam actions when the relator's allegations are based upon information released through Freedom of Information Act requests, finding that FOIA releases of "substantially similar" information which include the essential elements of the alleged fraud qualify as public disclosures. The court noted that it was joining the majority view, adopted by every circuit to consider the issue except the Fourth, taking into account the recent shift by the Seventh Circuit to the majority.
Insights
Client Alert | 4 min read | 02.05.26
EU–Brazil Mutual Adequacy: A Milestone for Global Data Flows and Latin America’s Digital Positioning
On January 27, the EU and Brazil announced their positive determination on the mutual adequacy of Brazil’s and the EU’s data privacy frameworks — confirming the growing importance of transatlantic data transfers and the EU-Mercosur relationship. This adequacy decision, while not formally tied to the EU-Mercosur trade negotiations, is a historic development that can facilitate cross-border data transfers and fuel shared economic growth driven by data-centered service sectors.
Client Alert | 4 min read | 02.04.26
DOJ Antitrust Division Issues First-Ever Award Under Whistleblower Rewards Program
Client Alert | 4 min read | 02.04.26
New York District Court Confirms Insurance Coverage Must Mean Something
Client Alert | 13 min read | 02.04.26
