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Chamberlain Hrdlicka launches Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Audits and Investigations Practice

September 7, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Audits and Investigations Practice

National law firm, Chamberlain Hrdlicka, has recently launched its Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Audits and Investigations Practice. The interdisciplinary practice will leverage its extensive experience to protect PPP loan borrowers as they navigate the civil audit and review as well as PPP criminal investigations and enforcement processes.

Millions of businesses, sole proprietors, and independent contractors have obtained Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. While these loans have provided vital funding to recipients impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, many borrowers lack a clear understanding of their obligations under the law and, consequently, their susceptibility to civil liability and criminal prosecution. Because the fundamental aspects of the PPP have changed over time through legislation and other guidance, mistakes can and will occur. Borrowers of PPP loans made multiple certifications as part of their initial application. Each certification provides potential justification for the denial of eligibility or loan forgiveness or could lead to a criminal investigation and enforcement action if not made in good faith. And, the lack of definitive guidance has not delayed enforcement actions.

“With more than 30 criminal cases filed to date, the government is already seeking early indictments in cases involving alleged fraud in PPP loan applications,” said Larry Campagna, managing shareholder at Chamberlain Hrdlicka. “Our nationally-renowned attorneys are well-versed in all issues related to the Paycheck Protection Program and ready to immediately assist our clients to develop a thorough and effective defense.”

Co-chairs Charles J. “Chad” Muller and Kevin Sweeney head the new national, multidisciplinary team, which includes attorneys from the firm’s various practice areas: Tax Controversy and Litigation; State and Local Tax Controversy and Planning; Federal White Collar Crime Defense; Criminal Tax Defense; Internal Investigations; Labor and Employment; and Corporate and Securities. The team can call on extensive experience to assist clients to proactively determine risk, ensure compliance, and provide review and audit defense and other support for potential PPP loan-related investigations.

For more details about the Paycheck Protection Program Audits and Investigations Practice go to https://www.chamberlainlaw.com/practices-paycheck_protection_program_ppp_audits_and_investigations.html.