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Whistleblower and Retaliation: Helping Employees Speak up Against Illegal Activities at The Workplace

J Goldman Law May 7, 2020

There are times when you may bear witness to discrimination at the workplace or know your employer is engaging in activities that are illegal and could put the public at risk. In these circumstances, we all like to believe we would have the courage to stand up and say something. The unfortunate reality, though, is job security and corporate pressure often cloud these decisions.

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey E. Goldman, we work with employees throughout the New York area to address whistleblower, retaliation and other employment law-related issues. With more than 25 years of combined experience handling a variety of employment law claims, we can surround you with the legal resources you need to hold employers and others accountable while protecting your rights under state and federal laws.

The Law Is Complex, but We Can Help You Understand Your Options

There are numerous state and federal laws designed to protect employees who report illegal activities at the workplace. This can include employees who know their employers are defrauding the government, or those who witness and report discrimination or harassment.

Our lawyers can help you report any wrongdoing to the appropriate authorities and ensure you are protected from illegal retaliation on the part of co-workers or your employer.

Below are brief descriptions of the three laws commonly applied to whistleblower and retaliation cases:

  • Sarbanes-Oxley Act: Sarbanes-Oxley Act protects employees who report illegal activities such as securities fraud, bank fraud, mail or wire fraud, shareholder fraud, as well as other federal violations, from retaliation from employers.

  • Dodd-Frank Act: Also referred to as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, this law offers financial incentives to employees who willfully report illegal activity or other wrongdoing on the part of their employers to the SEC. The act also allows employees to report violations without having to go through their employer’s reporting protocol. It also provides protections against employer retaliation.

  • New York Labor Law: The New York Labor Law (§ 740), applies to public and private employees, and provides protection to those who report unlawful activities on the part of employers. Employers may not take adverse employment action (or threaten action) if an employee reveals or threatens to reveal illegal activities. It’s important to note that employees should report violations to their supervisors and allow employers an opportunity to correct any violations.

Contact an Experienced Whistleblower and Retaliation Attorney Today

If you have witnessed illegal activities on the part of your employer or others at your workplace, our attorneys at The Law Offices of Jeffrey E. Goldman are here to help.

For a free, confidential consultation, call or complete our online contact form. From our offices in Midtown Manhattan, we work with clients throughout the five boroughs and the surrounding areas.