Of Counsel Federal Criminal Defense Attorney California

Job Description

Job Description

Now Hiring – Of Counsel Attorney | Federal Criminal & Healthcare Fraud Defense (California)

Watson & Associates, LLC is seeking a highly experienced Federal Criminal Defense Attorney to serve in an Of Counsel capacity for our California federal practice. This role focuses on defending clients in complex healthcare fraud investigations, False Claims Act (FCA) cases, white-collar criminal matters, and related federal litigation.

This position is best suited for attorneys with prior DOJ, AUSA, OIG, or federal criminal prosecution experience who are currently looking for flexible, part-time federal work or are semi-retired but still actively licensed. If you are licensed to practice in the California federal district courts and have handled federal healthcare fraud or FCA litigation, we want to hear from you.

This is a remote and contract-based opportunity for seasoned litigators who understand the high stakes involved in defending providers, executives, and businesses facing government scrutiny.

Position Overview

• Title: Of Counsel – Federal Criminal & Healthcare Fraud Defense Attorney

• Type: Part-time / Contract Position

• Location: Remote (Must be licensed in California federal district court)

• Compensation: $75–$135 per hour (commensurate with experience)

• Benefits: Not included

Key Responsibilities

• Represent clients in federal healthcare fraud investigations and criminal matters

• Draft legal pleadings, trial documents, and responses to civil investigative demands (CIDs)

• Conduct legal research and develop defense strategies in coordination with the litigation team

• Attend federal court proceedings (as needed) and manage client communications

• Analyze complex evidentiary material in Medicare, Medicaid, and procurement fraud cases

• Negotiate with federal agencies and prosecutors on behalf of clients

• Maintain accurate and detailed case files and legal records

Minimum Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Active California State Bar license

• Admitted to practice in at least one California federal district court

• Minimum 6 years of federal criminal defense or prosecutorial experience

• Substantial experience with:
  • False Claims Act litigation

  • Whistleblower/qui tam defense

  • White-collar crime and healthcare fraud cases

  • Federal rules and procedures

• Strong litigation, legal writing, and courtroom advocacy skills

• Proficiency with legal research tools and Microsoft Office suite

Preferred Candidates

• Former AUSA, DOJ, SEC, OIG, or JAG attorneys

• Attorneys with prior experience in Anti-Kickback Statute, Stark Law, and federal procurement fraud

• Professionals who can work independently and contribute immediately to federal cases

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, prior federal trial work, and interest in this Of Counsel opportunity. Please specify your admission to California federal district court in your application.

No phone calls or recruiter inquiries will be accepted. Serious candidates only.