When an employee reports their employer for illegal or unethical activity, they are known as a whistleblower. Unfortunately, some employees will attempt to retaliate against the employer. Luckily, there are laws in place to protect whistleblowers. Read on to learn more about whistleblower rights in New Jersey.
What Does Retaliation Look Like?
There are various ways in which employers can retaliate against whistleblowers who reported dangerous working conditions, illicit financial acts, and other forms of illegal conduct. Some of the most common forms of retaliation include:
- Blacklisting
- Demotion
- Disciplinary action
- Denying overtime pay
- Reducing pay or salary
- Wrongful termination
What New Jersey Laws Protect Whistleblowers?
There are certain laws in place designed to protect whistleblowers when it comes to retaliation. The federal laws that protect whistleblowers include the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the Whistleblower Protection Act, among others. The Whistleblower Protection Act protects federal employees and applicants for employment who disclose information that they believe proves one of the following:
- A gross waste of funds
- A “substantial and specific” danger to public health or safety
- An abuse of authority
- Gross mismanagement
- The violation of a law, rule, or regulation
If you believe that you have been retaliated against or that your whistleblower rights were violated, you will need the help of an experienced employment law attorney. Our firm is here to help. Reach out today to discuss your case with a skilled and dedicated employment law attorney.
Contact our Firm
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 protect your future when so much is on the line. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can assess the specific circumstances surrounding your lawsuit.
