The state's taxpayer whistleblower law was recently expanded by Part DD of S4009C, the state budget, and employers should be nervous because now employees can bring lawsuits on suspicion that their employer evaded their tax obligations. 

The whistleblower law, which is formally called The New York False Claims Act (FCA), allows whistleblowers to bring suits against individuals and entities that knowingly submit deceptive claims to the government, including tax fraud. Initially, claimants were limited to individuals with specific knowledge of the taxpayer's preparation process. However, as amended under S4009C, New York State Finance Law Art. 13 §189-h now enables claims against individuals or entities who deliberately evade tax obligations where claims can be advanced solely on suspicions. 

Given that the FCA allows whistleblowers to recover monetary damages of 30 percent of the government's recovery and that the government can recover three times the loss sustained by the state, it bodes to reason that disgruntled employees are quite incentivized to bring claims in selling out their employers. 

The amendment permits claims on tax concealments from May 3, 2020, but does not allow raising retroactive claims in pending cases. Individuals and business entities should immediately reassess their filing obligations and be clear on which employees have access to their records. 

As amended, the FCA is very likely to shake up the dynamic between bosses and employees. With enticing financial incentives on the line for successful whistleblowing claims, things are about to get interesting. 

In an interview with Scripps News, Attorney Andrew Lieb discussed the court decision finding Alabama's congressional map in violation of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Lieb provided insights on the implications of the ruling, highlighting its significance for voting rights in Alabama and nationwide.

The Impact on Voting Rights:

Lieb emphasized that the ruling is based on the 15th Amendment, an anti-discrimination law. The court found the district boundaries to be discriminatory, allowing only one African-American majority district. This decision reinforces the need to protect voting rights and prevent discrimination.

A Shift in the Supreme Court:

Lieb discussed Chief Justice John Roberts' role in the Supreme Court. Roberts aims to maintain the court's legitimacy by standing against discrimination. This decision represents his attempt to reassert influence and promote a balanced approach within the court.

Attorney Andrew Lieb passionately reflects on the enduring discussions surrounding discrimination laws, acknowledging the difficulty of empathizing with others' experiences. He emphasizes the importance of anti-discrimination laws and encourages a discourse centered around supporting one another. Lieb calls for unity, urging a departure from tribal politics and envisioning a future where discrimination is eradicated.

This Newsweek article covers the ongoing legal troubles of former President Donald Trump, focusing on the recent testimony of his Chief of Staff, Mark Meadows. As part of two federal investigations into Trump, Meadows was subpoenaed and reportedly answered questions possibly regarding Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, his actions surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot, and his retention of classified documents. Attorney Andrew Lieb suggests this could spell bad news for Trump, particularly if Meadows did not plead the Fifth Amendment because he managed to secure an immunity deal. This event follows other legal hits Trump has received, including being charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in NY and being found liable in a civil sexual abuse case. 

Legal and political analyst Andrew Lieb reads significance into Meadows' testimony, suggesting that the absence of a Fifth Amendment plea and a possible immunity deal could prove damaging for Trump.

According to Lieb, Meadows, being a central figure in the White House at the time of the controversial events could provide key insights that could implicate Trump in serious charges, such as seditious conspiracy related to the January 6 incident.

Read the full article in Newsweek Here. https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-mark-meadows-testify-jan6-1805007

In a recent interview on Live NOW from FOX, legal analyst and Attorney Andrew Lieb offered in-depth commentary about the possibility of Donald Trump's indictment happening this week in both DC and FL concerning the mishandling of classified documents.

Indictment Tea Leaves:

Lieb indicated that Trump's recent meeting with the DOJ signals an imminent indictment. He stated, "defense attorneys often will come in and meet with the prosecutor" before an indictment, and Trump's recent social media posts also suggest he believes an indictment is pending.

Political Magician Trump:

Lieb praised Trump as a "political magician" who might use a potential indictment to fuel political allegiance and fundraising efforts. However, he cautioned that this tactic could backfire in his criminal defense.

Two Different Games:

While discussing Trump's ongoing legal issues, Lieb stressed the distinction between state and federal charges, noting a presidential pardon wouldn't affect the New York case.

On Gag Orders:

Responding to inquiries about a potential gag order, Lieb said he doesn't believe one would be issued in either this case or the Manhattan one beyond the confidentiality order that already exists in NY. He did warn that Trump's tendency to speak openly might push the courts towards considering a gag order.

The Special Counsel's Options:

Lieb explained that Special Counsel Jack Smith could opt to write a report instead of indicting Trump. However, given the grand juries convening in both DC and FL, Lieb predicts an indictment is on the horizon.

Multiple Grand Juries:

When questioned about multiple grand juries, Lieb clarified it's due to alleged crimes occurring in different locations. This strategic approach would prevent the case from being relocated.

Effects on Other Political Figures:

Finally, Lieb lauded former Vice President Mike Pence's cooperation during his investigation, contrasting it with Trump's resistance. He noted Pence's respect and compliance could serve as a model for anyone facing similar situations.

Attorney Andrew Lieb recently provided his expertise in a compelling interview with Newsweek, focusing on the intense feud between Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida and Governor Gavin Newsom of California. The discussion delved into the possibility of DeSantis facing kidnapping charges.

Lieb shed light on the protective nature of the Doctrine of Absolute Immunity, which safeguards governors from prosecution, even if their actions are perceived as malicious or in bad faith. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of the Doctrine of Comity, which mandates states to honor and respect the laws and judicial decisions of other states. These legal principles act as a safeguard, ensuring that DeSantis is shielded from charges, regardless of the circumstances.

Of particular interest, Lieb explored the potential implications if Governor Newsom were to disregard the Doctrine of Comity and pursue charges against DeSantis. He underscored the gravity of such a situation, cautioning against the consequences that could arise from one state openly defying the laws and legal decisions of another state. The nation could be at risk of teetering on the edge of a civil war, with severe repercussions and unprecedented chaos.

The full article from Newsweek can be found here: https://www.newsweek.com/ron-desantis-kidnapping-migrants-gavin-newsom-1804958

In a recent TV interview on Live NOW from FOX, legal analyst Attorney Andrew Lieb provided insightful analysis into the meeting between former President Donald Trump's legal team and Department of Justice (DOJ) officials. The conversation revolved around the potential charging decision that could significantly impact Trump's future and the unprecedented nature of this event in American history. 

Rumblings of Imminent Charging Decisions:

Lieb acknowledged the rumors surrounding imminent charging decisions in both Florida and Washington, D.C., with grand juries present in both locations. He stressed the seriousness of the crimes Trump could be charged with, such as the Espionage Act and Obstruction of Justice. This potential indictment against a former President marks a significant moment in American history, making it an exhausting and sombering experience for many.

Political Fireball vs. Substance:

When questioned about the significance of the meeting, Lieb highlighted the initial letter sent by Trump's legal team, which he described as a political fireball lacking substance. Despite the political nature of the letter, it is customary for defense counsel to meet with prosecutors to present their case. However, Lieb expressed doubts about the effectiveness of Trump's approach, as the political tone of the letter may have hindered a more factual and productive discussion.

Trump's Social Media Posts and Expectations:

Lieb addressed Trump's recent all-caps post on social media, indicating that Trump believes that he will be charged. While it would be unlikely for the DOJ officials to reveal such information during the meeting, Lieb advised Trump to exercise caution and to avoid inflaming the prosecutor. Restraint and silence, he emphasized, would be a more strategic approach when facing potential criminal problems.

Pence's Cooperation and Lessons Learned:

The interview shifted focus to former Vice President Mike Pence, who cooperated swiftly in the investigation, resulting in the DOJ's decision not to charge him. Lieb praised Pence's approach as a model for handling such situations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and avoiding confrontation with the government.

The Leak and Future Developments:

Looking ahead, Lieb predicted that Trump's team would leak information about any charging decision, considering Trump's tendency to exploit such news for political and fundraising purposes. He anticipated that the announcement could come as early as the following week, revealing the charges Trump may face.

Uncharted Territory:

The interview concluded with an examination of the historical significance of potentially indicting a former President. Lieb emphasized that if Special Counsel Jack Smith were to indict Trump, it would mark the second pending indictment against a former president who currently leads the GOP nomination race—an unprecedented scenario in American politics. Lieb reminded the audience that the significance of both federal and state charges should not be underestimated, as state charges cannot be pardoned by the President alone.

Attorney Andrew Lieb recently made an appearance in an in-depth interview with Scripps News to discuss the potential legal implications for former President Donald Trump over reported classified document discussions, on tape, at his NJ Golf Course. 

Discussing Trump's defense strategy, Lieb clarified that it's not a legal strategy yet a political strategy to run for office. The legal strategy should be to keep quiet and suppress evidence.