Unrelated Relators: DOJ Launches FOCUS Initiative as Data-Driven FCA Filings Surge

Vinson & Elkins – Traditionally, a Department of Justice (“DOJ” or the “Department”) False Claims Act (“FCA”) investigation starts with someone with inside knowledge within a company, perhaps a disgruntled former employee, an internal tip, and a qui tam complaint put together by a plaintiff’s firm that has been working with the putative whistleblower for months.