While most people want to do the right thing when reporting fraud, it is also natural to worry about the consequences of those actions. This is especially true for someone providing evidence of fraudulent activity against their employer. It is not uncommon for companies to lash out at workers who assist in these efforts by cutting pay, harassing them, or even terminating their employment.
Federal law prevents retaliation, and Columbia has protections for whistleblowers. You deserve your privacy and the ability to live without fear of retaliation because you cooperated with federal investigators regarding a false claim. A dedicated whistleblower attorney could advise you of your rights and guide you through this process.
Numerous state and federal agencies are tasked with investigating allegations of fraud and false claims. Despite their extensive reach, the sheer number of allegedly fraudulent claims makes it difficult to catch everything. These agencies rely on the public for tips and information regarding wrongdoing.
Anyone has the right to cooperate with the government and share what they know about acts of fraud. While an employer cannot take this right away, that does not prevent some companies from aggressively retaliating against workers who blow the whistle on their fraudulent practices. In these situations, it is vital to understand how whistleblower protections work in Columbia.
Unfortunately, many whistleblowers feel intimidated by providing information about fraud to the government. This often occurs when they are worried about how their employer will react. For others, merely being involved in a potential criminal investigation can be stressful. The good news is that there is no reason to take on this challenge on your own.
An attorney in Columbia could help with a range of whistleblower protections. Their efforts begin long before information is provided to the federal government. In some industries, it might be possible to submit the details of alleged fraud anonymously, at least in the early stages of the process.
A lawyer could offer guidance and insight into what to expect as a whistleblower and what is permitted under the law. Some workers are surprised to learn that the behavior they intended to ignore was a violation of their rights. Relying on an attorney could be the best way to put an end to retaliation before it starts.
Remedies exist for anyone experiencing retaliation because they cooperated with the government. It is against the law for a company to take any negative stance against a worker based on the information they provide to authorities.
Some examples of retaliation include termination, reassignment, demotion, and a reduction in pay. Others experience harassment or even violence in the workplace. However, there are legal avenues to address these issues and ensure your rights are protected.
When someone is retaliated against, they have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit and recoup damages. A lawyer in Columbia could assist with whistleblower protections and handle this litigation from start to finish.
When you are considering turning over information regarding fraud in your company to the federal government, it is understandable to fear reprisal. There are laws in place to prevent retaliation, and the right lawyer could help you seek compensation if you experience wrongful actions from your employer. Call today to learn more about whistleblower protections in Columbia.
