Whistleblowers are protected against employer retaliation under several California and federal laws. A whistleblower is a person who reports employer activities that are believed to be illegal, fraudulent and/or improper. In whistleblower actions the employer may be an individual, corporation, government agency or other entity. Once an employee reports employer wrongdoing, they are often subject to retaliation. If you reported questionable activity to the state or federal government and are being treated in a retaliatory manner, we can help you obtain the protection and compensation that you are legally entitled to. Lauby, Mankin & Lauby LLP offers a complimentary consultation to discuss your case and review your options. Schedule your appointment by calling 888-959-8508.
Federal Protection for Whistleblowers in California
There are numerous federal laws that protect whistleblowers from retaliation. They include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Federal False Claims Act (FCA) – This Act accomplishes two goals:
- 1. Authorizes whistleblower rewards pertaining contractors who do business with the federal government;
- 2. Prohibits employer retaliation against those who report.
- Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) – Protects shareholders and employees of corporations from reporting fraud
- Dodd-Frank Act – Rewards and protects whistleblowers in the financial sector
California Whistleblower Protection:
California whistleblower protection includes the following:
- California False Claims Act (CA-FCA) – Protects and rewards state government whistleblowers
- California Whistleblower Protection Act (CA WPA) – California government employees are protected against retaliation.
- California law also protects employees who refuse to engage or otherwise participate in conduct that is in violation of federal and state law. Refusal alone is enough for protection.
Compensation may be possible in cases where harmful conduct is reported that results in employee termination. In some instances negotiations outside of court are conducted, avoiding trial and publicity.
Contact an Inland Empire & Orange County Whistleblower Attorney for a Free Case Review:
If you experienced whistleblower retaliation by your employer or others, compensation may be available to you – as well as protection. Lauby, Mankin & Lauby LLP has been protecting the rights of individuals for more than 15 years. We are highly experienced trial attorneys and skilled negotiators and we use our skills to advance the legitimate goals of our clients. While the great majority of legal claims are settled out of court, we are prepared to go before judge and jury when necessary. Many cases are quickly resolved in mediation. There are no upfront fees when we accept a case on a contingency fee basis. To schedule your complimentary case review, contact Lauby, Mankin & Lauby LLP at 888-959-8508.