For many people, it is not easy to blow the whistle on their employer’s illegal activities. Whistleblowers are often afraid of possible retaliation and termination. If you are considering filing a whistleblower claim in New Jersey, you need the expertise of an attorney who specializes in this case. The lawyer will help you navigate the state and federal whistleblower law. They will fight to protect you against retaliation and ensure your concerns get appropriate attention. You should not be treated unfairly or lose your job because you blow the whistle. However, there are considerations to make before you decide to blow the whistle. These include the following:
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Ensure You Have a Valid Case
You will only be protected by law if you blow the whistle on issues such as criminal offenses, health and safety breaches, regulatory breaches, or cover-ups. Keep in mind that you can raise any concern at any time, whether it is about an incident that took place before, is occurring now, or you think will occur soon.
Report Only the Right Type of Concerns
Never use the whistleblowing channels of your company to air out grievances or make false reports. Personal grievances should be aired or reported to your manager or HR. Such grievances will only be covered by whistleblowing law if it is in the public interest.
Be Aware of the Approved Channels
Check your company handbook to know how to make a report and to whom. Often, your manager is your first port of call; however, you may also report to HR, legal, compliance, or senior management, or the board, through a whistleblowing helpline, website, or email, or to an independent third party. Never go straight to the media or make your report visible online because this can damage your reputation.
Just Blow the Whistle, Don’t Investigate
As a whistleblower, it is not your job to collect inconclusive evidence of wrongdoing. You are a witness and observer, so don’t think about gathering extra evidence before you blow the whistle. By delaying and trying to collect evidence, you may make the suspect aware of it and ruin the entire investigation.
Believe in the Protection that the Law Offers
You can blow the whistle when you suspect wrongdoings or unethical behaviors. Sure, it will be difficult; however, the law is there to protect you from reprisal or unfair treatment. As long as you report it to the right channel, you can be confident that your reports will be handled with confidentiality and sensitivity.