DO I HAVE LEGAL PROTECTION AS A WHISTELBLOWER IN THE U.S?

Looking at the privileges and rights that a whistleblower can exercise in the United States of America. It is nice when all things run smooth and easy at the workplace. It is even better when all these things not only seem to work, but actually work seamlessly. When the alternative happens, and you feel the need to blow the whistle on your employers, we want to assure you that you can. You not only have the right to but also enjoy certain levels of legal protection that actually encourage whistleblowing. Let’s look at this in detail.

Who is a whistleblower?

By definition, a whistleblower is an employee who reports their employer’s illegal activities or general misconduct. This can be done either by going to the authorities directly and filing a claim or, and this is what is wise, looking for legal advice, preferably a whistleblower attorney, and following the right channels to open a case against the employer.

Whistleblower protection:

The Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989 protects employees from being fired or retaliated against for blowing the whistle. That Act, however, does not generalize the protection to all employees but is specific to all government employees; more so, the federal departments. However, with a great whistleblower lawyer, this same Act can be used to ensure that even those not working for the government enjoy the same protection. This then means that, if your claims are genuine and can be proven, you can enjoy the protection needed. How do you then go about reporting the issues?

How to go about whistleblowing?

Before you even make the first attempt to make any allegations, there are a few things that you need to do. First of all, find actual legal advice. Look for a law firm that deals with employment law and get a great whistleblower lawyer. Your attorney will ensure that you take the right measures every step of the way. Then obtain as much info and proof as possible. You have no case if there is no evidence of the misconduct being committed. Take as much time as you need in collecting the information, ensuring to cover your tracks in the process. Then having an open but expectant mind, follow the advice of your whistleblower attorney to the letter, and file the suit.