Whistleblower Protections in New Jersey
What are Whistleblower Laws
Whistleblower laws were put in place to protect both public and/or private employees from retaliation in the event that they report illegal or unsafe activities in their workplace to authorities. In New Jersey, employees are protected under the New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act, commonly referred to as CEPA. CEPA prohibits adverse job actions by an employer to an employee in retaliation for whistleblowing.
What Kinds of Adverse Job Actions Does CEPA Prohibit?
CEPA may protect an employee from unlawful retaliation for their whistleblowing. Some of those activities may include wrongful termination; hostile work environment, suspension, discipline, demotion, and/or retaliatory harassment. More specifically, as it relates to retaliatory harassment, this may include any conduct that is hostile, intimidating, or abusive, because of the person’s “status” as a whistleblower.
Can You Recover Damages in a Whistleblower Lawsuit?
CEPA allows for the recovery of compensatory and punitive damages. A plaintiff may also be awarded attorney fees. In addition, a plaintiff may be granted reinstatement into his or her position, back pay, and/or front pay, all of which are known as equitable remedies.
If you believe that you have reported unsafe activities in the workplace, and are being retaliated against as a result, you should immediately report the conduct to any manager, supervisor, or Human Resources Department. You may also want to consult with an experienced employment attorney who can help defend your rights and fight for justice. Contact our firm today.
The dedicated and compassionate attorneys at Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. would be happy to provide you with assistance in your case and help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can assess the specific circumstances surrounding your lawsuit.
