Concerned about Job Security if You Blow the Whistle?

Information on Whistleblower Protection from a Qui Tam Attorney

Job security is one of the first concerns for people who find themselves in the position of considering whistleblowing.  While some employers punish or harass employees with compromised whistleblower confidentiality, it is illegal to do so and a qui tam attorney can help protect you. 

If you have information that requires you to take on the role of a whistleblower in a qui tam suit, be sure to understand whistleblower protection laws. Contact a whistleblower lawyer at Mike Love & Associates LLC to get information on your rights and the due protection you are entitled to under the law.

Whistleblower Retaliation

Past cases exist in which whistleblower involved in a False Claims Act suit endured retaliatory treatment for their actions. Employers took actions such as:

• Demoting or suspending employees
• Pay reductions
• Transfers to inferior job roles and locations
• Denying benefits or promotions
• Threats and isolation from co-workers
• Firings

In fact, it is illegal for an employer to take any of these actions against the job security of a whistleblower. If you experienced any of this type of treatment as the result of taking on the position of a whistleblower, you have legal rights.

Whistleblower Protection Laws

Whistleblower protection laws protect job security for individuals in qui tam suits. For example, individuals who work for the federal government receive protection under the Whistleblower Protection Act when they report actions such as:

• Violations of laws or regulations
• Abuse of authority and mismanagement
• Irresponsible waste of funds
• Danger to public safety or heath

The False Claims Act states that “any employee who is discharged, demoted, harassed, or otherwise discriminated against because of lawful acts by the employee in furtherance of an action under the Act is entitled to all relief necessary to make the employee whole.” Relief can include:

• Reinstatement 
• Double back pay 
• Compensation for damages, including legal fees

Ensuring Whistleblower Job Security

In most cases, job security is not an issue in qui tam suits because of whistleblower confidentiality . For example, if you came forward in a case of Medicaid fraud, your employer probably will never know who you are unless you have to testify in open court.

However, the situation can be complex, and it is in your best interests to inform yourself with a confidential consultation from a qui tam attorney. Contact a whistleblower lawyer at Mike Love & Associates LLC so you can protect in your job security and rights during a qui tam suit.