There is such a point where money would exchange hands before a formal suit between two private actors. For instance, I might want to settle with you quickly an

There is such a point where money would exchange hands before a formal suit between two private actors. For instance, I might want to settle with you quickly and privately to avoid having to admit what I did. The government, on the other hand, wants the publicity of having filed the suit to deter other companies from doing the same thing. I don't believe they frequently settle before filing a formal suit.