The Dos and Don’ts of California Whistleblower Protections
Whistleblowers contribute to the implementation of justice by reporting the wrongdoings of their employees. However, their noble act sometimes backfires. They get fired after making the complaints. If you are a whistleblower, you have some rights to protect your job and identity. Whistleblower laws in California ensure your security and even offer financial rewards for reporting illegal activity in your workplace. You must abide by some dos and don’ts to get whistleblower protection in California.
Things you should do as a whistleblower
Know your rights: The California Whistleblower Protection Act (CWPA) and California Labor Code protect your rights as a whistleblower. You should have a basic knowledge of these to clearly understand your situation. These laws will defend you when you face retaliation after whistleblowing.
Collect solid evidence: Gathering appropriate evidence is one of the most crucial works. You need to strengthen your claim by showing evidence like financial activity records, emails, memos, or other information.
Get help from a legal representative: You should seek assistance from an experienced attorney for this case. It would be wise to avoid taking matters into your own hands. The lawyer will give you proper advice regarding your situation. You will also learn the associated risk and rewards of your whistleblower’s decision.
Consult other whistleblowers: Before revealing your identity as a whistleblower, you may want to talk to other whistleblowers. It is essential to be united in such situations about your decisions.
Try to resolve the situation internally: Firstly, file formal reports to the internal authority of the company. It will establish your credibility as a whistleblower. If your organization does not resolve things, look for the help of external forces.
Involve State agencies: After taking all the steps mentioned above, it is time to report to external state agencies. You can file a complaint to the California Labor Commissioner’s Office or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. Whistleblower laws in California will be applicable for you to deal with the situation.
Things you can not do as a whistleblower
- Be sure to report: You should save time to file reports on suspected crimes. It would help to consider the time limitations on reporting illegal activity.
- Don’t share proprietary information: While showing the evidence, you need to be careful not to disclose any irrelevant and confidential information about the organization.
- Refrain from using company devices: You should not use company devices to consult your legal representative.
- Don’t act unethically: Don’t retaliate against your colleagues. It may bring negative consequences for you.
What is whistleblower retaliation?
After blowing the whistle about illegal acts in your workplace, you may face wrongful termination, threats, demotion, etc. These consequences fall under the category of whistleblower retaliation. In this situation, you must file a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit to protect your rights.
Final Words
California whistleblower laws give protection to private employees. You should follow the protocol while exposing the crimes of your suspects according to the whistleblower laws in California.
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