Not only should someone speak out about unlawful business practices, but the U.S. government encourages it. Those brave enough to speak out are whistleblowers. The seasoned lawyers at Melmed Law are here to explain whistleblower cases, your protections, and why lawyers for whistleblowers can be beneficial.
Whistleblower Case Examples
You may not know that whistleblowing can happen in many ways, including violations of the False Claims Act, unsafe workplaces, and financial wrongdoings. Here are some of the main types of cases involving whistleblowing.Health and Safety Issues
You’re likely familiar with seeing the acronym OSHA plastered on workplace diagrams and mentioned in safety meetings. This organization began with the formation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1970. This vital act is the backbone for keeping workers safe by granting them the legal “right to a safe workplace.”Workers have the right to report any issue that violates OSHA regulations. It also safeguards these same employees from retaliatory measures from an employer after they report any violations.
Financial and Securities Fraud
As you’ll often see reported on the news, whistleblower case examples sometimes involve money. Actions that fall under financial and securities fraud impact companies and rob investors in both the public and private sectors.Whistleblowers can let the authorities know about:
- Ponzi schemes
- Pump and dump stock schemes
- Market manipulation
- Intentional information omission or misrepresentation
One of the many landmark legislative measures against financial and securities fraud is the Dodd-Frank Act. This act prohibits certain banks from using their funds for trading purposes. It may also provide potential monetary awards for certain whistleblower cases.
Environmental Violations
Not all illegal business activities involve violations of OSHA regulations. Sometimes, the environment pays the price for unethical business practices.The environment remains a crucial concern to people, companies, and organizations worldwide. However, some employers don’t share this same concern about the world we all live in. That’s why lawyers for whistleblowers sometimes represent clients who report on employer-related environmental issues.
Examples of these violations can include:
- Illegally polluting soil, air, and water
- Violating environmental permits
- Improperly disposing of waste
- Breaching wildlife protection laws
Harassment and Discrimination
Unfortunately, harassing and discriminatory behaviors and actions remain a problem in workplaces and may require a sexual harassment lawyer. However, the U.S. government also protects workers who whistle on immoral and unethical actions.- Wrongfully letting a worker go
- Not hiring someone based on their protected characteristics
- Putting employees through harassing behavior
Making False Claims
Another way a business or person can violate the law is by making false claims to the government. Thankfully, the False Claims Act protects against this unlawful situation. Examples of such claims can include falsifying records, overcharging the government, and fraudulent billing.Legal Protections for Whistleblowers
You now understand the main types of whistleblower cases. Learning about the protections you have is just as important. Here’s a closer look at the rights and legal protections of whistleblowers.
Job Security
Understandably, one of the most notable fears of any whistleblower is their future standing with a company. Making matters worse, it’s not unheard of for an employer to illegally retaliate against a whistleblower. One of these illegal actions is to terminate a worker after they use their legal rights to report business-related wrongdoing.If this situation happens to you or someone you know, contact a lawyer for whistleblowers. These legal professionals can review your situation's details to determine if a violation occurred.
Protection From Retaliation
While being a whistleblower can mean losing your job, it’s not the only way an employer may attempt to strike back against someone. Unfortunately, specific whistleblower case examples can involve companies illegally retaliating.Examples of retaliation include:
- Reassignment to less favorable work duties
- Being fired
- Having hours reduced
- Being relocated
Lawyers for whistleblowers can help you fight back against retaliation. Contact Melmed Law today.
The Right to Legal Representation
You never have to feel like you’re taking on a whistleblower case alone. That’s because people in this position have the right to legal representation. That means you have the right to have a qualified legal team.How Lawyers for Whistleblowers Can Help
A law firm can help wronged workers in many ways, especially during the aftermath of whistleblowing. But how? Here’s more information about the benefits of lawyering up after you blow the whistle on illegal business activities.
Helping Ensure the Validity of Your Case
Whistleblower cases are often complex matters. Because of that, it’s understandable for someone without a legal background to know if they have a valid claim. Whether your situation involves violating OSHA regulations, the False Claims Act, or any other valid reason, an experienced team of lawyers can understand what’s happening.Guiding You on What to Do Next
Feeling unsure of how to proceed with legal matters is understandable, especially for someone who doesn’t work in this industry. Thankfully, an established legal professional can guide you through any uncertain time. This assurance means you’re always prepared for what comes next in your case.Representing You During Negotiations
Whistleblower cases often involve negotiations. However, coming to terms with an employer that previously wronged you isn’t always easy. Additionally, you could encounter your current or former employer attempting to settle things with an offer far below what you deserve.Lawyers regularly represent their valued clients during negotiations. This assistance can mean not taking a lowball offer or fighting back when an employer refuses to make an offer.
Do you need guidance with your whistleblower case? Melmed Law is ready to help. We’ve recovered a collective total of $250 million for California’s ethical and hard-working residents. Let us help. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.