Under the False Claims Act, it is illegal for individuals and companies to defraud the government. This act also allows individuals to alert the government to the fraud and to file a qui tam lawsuit on behalf of the government.
The government rewards the honesty and bravery of whistleblowers by compensating them: whistleblowers may receive from 15 to 30 percent of the damages collected from the person or company who committed the fraud.
Unfortunately, whistleblowers can sometimes be the victim of retaliation.
Employers may retaliate against a whistleblower by discriminating against or harassing the employee. This can include any of the following actions, among others.
Retaliation is illegal. If you recently came forward to alert the government to illegal activity and were subsequently fired or mistreated by your employer, you have rights.
You should know that, under the law, whistleblowers can bring a claim against their employers for retaliation. You may be entitled to reinstatement (if you were fired), double back pay, and money for your attorney fees.
At Martinson & Beason, P.C., we work to protect whistleblowers. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge needed to help you stand up to your employer and get the compensation you deserve.
No one should be mistreated for doing the right thing. Call us today for a consultation with a dedicated retaliation lawyer at our firm. We are based in Huntsville and serve the entire state of Alabama.