The ABA’s 2026 False Claims Act Mock Trial Institute, held in New Orleans this year and sold out, once again offered a bevy of lessons, information, and insight. As always, the FCA Mock Trial Institute provided a valuable opportunity for members of the government, relator, and defense bars to network and talk cheerfully outside the occasionally adverse litigation atmosphere. Sheppard Mullin was again well represented among faculty and attendees by five attorneys from its experienced FCA team and hosted a well attended Thursday evening reception at Compare Lapin.
The States Are Rising
The reduction of personnel at both Main Justice and in U.S. Attorney Offices, along with a focus by the current administration on non-traditional FCA issues such as DEI and gender- affirming care, has reduced federal resources available to investigate and litigate healthcare and defense/government contracting FCA cases. Going forward, expect to see increased state AG involvement in FCA cases, especially healthcare cases. Sara Vann and Candice Deisher from the Georgia and Virginia Attorneys General Offices, respectively, provided a masterclass on NAMFCU and state AG work generally during “The NAMFCU and HHS-OIG Round Table.” Other members of the faculty, particularly during the “FCA’s Role in the American Justice System” panel (which included a former U.S. Attorney, the most recent Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division, and the President and CEO of The Anti-Fraud Coalition),...
Former University of Michigan head football coach Sherrone Moore is not guilty of the allegations levied against him by a female staff member, his attorney argued outside court on Thursday, Januar...