Fluet is proud to announce the arrival of Habib Ilahi as a Partner in the firm’s Litigation + Investigations and Government Contracts Practices. Mr. Ilahi will lead the firm’s False Claims Act (FCA) Practice, bringing a sophisticated understanding of government enforcement and white-collar defense to the firm’s clients.
“Habib embodies the Elite, Efficient, and Effective representation Fluet’s clients demand and expect,” says David Panzer, Chair of Fluet’s Government Contracts Practice. “Fluet Partners need to be able to lead clients through truly difficult challenges at the intersection of national security, government regulation, and cutting-edge technology – while policy, regulations, and technology continue to shift. Habib’s unique experience representing all three sides of False Claims Act matters—as a federal prosecutor, as counsel for whistleblowers, and as a defense attorney—provides our clients with an unparalleled 360-degree perspective on high-stakes investigations at a time when DOJ has just announced its largest haul of FCA settlements, and the FCA continues to be one of the most powerful weapons the Government wields against its contractors. Habib’s arrival at this moment of government enforcement reflects Fluet’s continued growth driven by client needs, and reinforces Fluet’s position as a leader in navigating complex regulatory and enforcement challenges.”
Mr. Ilahi’s practice focuses on counseling entities in highly regulated industries, including healthcare and government procurement, through complex enforcement actions and white-collar criminal defense. As a former federal prosecutor with the Civil Fraud Section of the Department of Justice, he handled significant matters involving the FCA, the Anti-Kickback Statute, and the Stark Law. His career also includes serving as Special Counsel to the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, where he drafted landmark legislation to address synthetic opioid manufacturing.
“I am excited to join Fluet and lead the FCA practice,” says Mr. Ilahi. “The firm’s commitment to providing elite, mission-focused legal support aligns perfectly with my background in government service and private practice. I am delighted to work with a team of national security professionals – including Fluet partners Duc Nguyen, Kendra Perkins Norwood, Mike O’Leary, David Panzer and Nick Rotsko – who all have dealt with the FCA from different perspectives. I look forward to helping our clients navigate the FCA. ”
With over 20 years of defense experience, Mr. Ilahi has a proven track record of success, including securing multiple FCA declinations, obtaining favorable FCA settlements, and securing acquittals in high-profile criminal trials.
To learn more about Habib and Fluet’s enhanced FCA Practice, click here.
