Whistleblowers in California may encounter difficult circumstances at work if they observe or become aware of any unlawful activity, violations of health and safety laws, financial fraud, environmental damage, or other forms of misbehavior at the workplace. Facing these problems may result in detrimental personal impacts, such as retribution, job loss, or damage to your reputation at work. Individuals are encouraged to report such incidents fearlessly under whistleblower laws in California that offer legal rights and protections, some of which apply to public employment, and others which include private employers.
Government Code Section 8547, et seq. (known as the California Whistleblower Protection Act) addresses California state employees’ freedom to disclose waste, fraud, legal infractions, or hazards to their health and safety without fear of reprisal. When state lawmakers realized that employees could be able to freely expose waste, fraud, abuse of authority, legal infractions, or risks to public safety without worrying about consequences, the Legislature concluded that public servants most successfully serve the public interest when they can carry out their duties with integrity. The team of employment discrimination lawyers at UELG is versed in handling Whistleblower cases in California, so it is beneficial if you connect with us if facing any whistleblower issues. Our competent whistleblower attorney in Los Angeles will also help you understand your whistleblower rights in the state.
California Labor Code Section 1102.5 (and associated statutes) further protect employees of the public as well as private employers in the event they witness and report a violation of state or federal statute, a violation or noncompliance with a local, state, or federal rule or regulation (including reporting illegal discrimination or harassment in violation of Government Code section 12940 et seq.), or with reference to employee safety or health, unsafe working conditions or work practices in the employee’s employment or place of employment.
Other California statutes protect employees who complain about billing fraud and other fraudulent activities toward state or other governmental bodies (Government Code section 12650, or the False Claim Act); and employees of healthcare facilities from retaliation for reporting matters affecting patient safety (Health and Safety Code section 1278); and employees who have complained of employee safety or other work safety issues (Labor Code 6310). Federal laws also protect whistleblowers, including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, found at 18 U.S.C. section 1514A, which prohibits any publicly traded company (or their officers, employees, or agents) from retaliating against an employee who provides information that may reasonably be believed to be a violation of federal law relating to fraud against shareholders.
Ways to preserve your whistleblower rights at work in California:
- Know your rights: Learn about the various whistleblower laws that affect California employees, including the California Whistleblower Protection Act, Labor Code section 1102.5, and other statutes described above, which are designed to protect and shield employees who expose work-related legal or regulatory infractions from employer reprisal.
- Document everything: Keep careful records of any illegal action you have witnessed or encountered, as well as any interactions and the persons involved involving whistleblowing.
- Report safely: Use the internal reporting procedures offered by your company whenever possible, but use caution if retribution is a concern.
- Recognize retaliation: If you fear losing your job as a result of reporting misbehavior, obtain legal assistance from a whistleblower attorney in Los Angeles immediately. Look out for signals of whistleblower retaliation in California, such as denied promotions or unfair dismissals.
- Take prompt action: Keep in mind that in California the time within which a whistleblower must file a complaint (called the statute of limitations) for being unlawfully terminated after reporting any unlawful, unsafe, or other forms of prohibited behavior or conduct is typically one year from the date of the incident.
- Consult a lawyer: To find out more about your legal options and rights under California whistleblower laws, consult with an experienced employment attorney who has skill and experience in handling whistleblower protection.
- Investigate the scope of protections: Be aware that California whistleblower protection laws apply variously to private as well as public employees, providing legal redress against retribution.
- Be knowledgeable: Stay up to date on new legal developments and precedents in whistleblower legislation so that you may better stand up for and defend yourself and your workplace rights.
How can UELG lawyers help in a Whistleblower Protection case in California?
At UELG, we understand the courage needed to face immorality, injustice, and misconduct inside your company. The whistleblower attorneys in Los Angeles are dedicated to protecting your rights under the California Whistleblower Protection Act, Labor Code section 1102.5, and the other state and federal laws described above. We are here to provide steadfast support, competent legal advice, and an appreciation that coming forward with information as a whistleblower sometimes leads to difficult circumstances. Listed are what’s important to us in our dedicated endeavors to protect your whistleblower rights:
- Knowledge and experience with the Whistleblower Protection Act and other whistleblower laws
- Comprehensive and strategic case evaluation process
- Legal guidance and strategy relating to the facts of your case
- Approach to offer protection and other options against retaliation
- Thorough documentation and reporting within the statute of limitations
- Complete and detailed guidance throughout the legal process
- Capability to proficiently present your case in and out of the courtroom for justice and deserved compensation
Conclusion
The team of knowledgeable employment lawyers at UELG is aware of how challenging it can be to take morally justified action by whistleblowing against your employer, particularly if doing so puts you in danger of losing your job. We are committed to helping protect your whistleblower rights if you discover that your company has engaged in illegal fraud, dangerous safety procedures, or other misbehavior. Do not hesitate to contact us; we will support you throughout the challenging process of reporting wrongdoing, and we are committed to protecting your rights. Call us at (888) 545-0013 to get a free case evaluation.
