Whistleblower Retaliation: A Wrongful Termination Lawyer Can Help
Sunlight is often called the best disinfectant, which is why we stand with whistleblower in any profession. Whistleblowers play an important role when it comes to businesses operating more ethically and responsibly. By exposing poor practices, unsafe working standards, and other matters of public interest, whistleblowers can change the business and even cultural landscape.
Speaking truth to power can be costly, however. Once their identities are known, many whistleblowers face backlash from their employers. Acts of workplace retaliation can be swift and brutal, but a Plano, TX attorney can help. We’d like to consider issues of wrongful termination when it comes to whistleblowers. We’ll offer our insights into these matters and discuss how a lawyer can help you.
Employer Retaliation Against Whistleblowers
Many employers do not take kindly to having their dark secrets revealed, even if it is for the good of the public in the long run. They may punish the whistleblower in some fashion because of their actions. This could mean harassment at work in various forms from supervisors and fellow employees. It could mean a decrease in pay, a change in hours, or an inconvenient transfer to another location.
In the most drastic of cases, employers may wind up firing whistleblowers because of what they have done. This sacrifice of one’s career seems symbolically noble, but the grounds for termination could be illegal.
Wrongful Termination Defined
Also referred to as wrongful dismissal and wrongful discharge, wrongful termination refers to firing an employee in a manner that violates the stipulations in that employee’s contract. Wrongful termination could also involve firing an employee in violation of state and federal law, such as the Whistleblower Protection Act for federal employees.
What to Do If You Have Been Unjustly Fired
If you have been unjustly fired for being a whistleblower, it’s important that you speak with a workplace law attorney and file a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission. Your attorney can help file this complaint, which is an important first step in holding your employer accountable in the courts as well as in the court of public opinion.
Establishing a Link Between Termination and Retaliation
When looking over the evidence in your case, it will be important for an attorney to establish a causal connection between your whistleblowing and your termination. The timing of your termination will be key, as well as any other actions of workplace retaliation prior to your termination.
It’s also important to note any disciplinary actions, employee reviews, and/or citations/commendations you've received from your employer as these can bolster or complicate your case.
Creating a Strong Legal Strategy
Companies tend to have more initial advantages over employees given the lawyers they’ve hired and the way that employment contracts are worded. However, that doesn’t mean these wrongful termination cases are impossible. We will fight diligently for you every step of the way, noting your contributions to the company as well as the good your whistleblowing has done for consumers, fellow employees, and the way the business functions.
The peace of mind we provide can help you and your family move forward in life and continue in your career.
Speak with an Experienced Whistleblower Attorney
For more information about your legal rights and options following wrongful termination by your employer, be sure to contact the Law Offices of Dan A. Atkerson. An experienced lawyer at our firm will be able to discuss these matters with you and go over your legal options.
