Whistleblowers play a critical role in holding businesses accountable for illegal, dangerous, or unethical practices, which is why the law provides extensive protections for these actions. By exposing fraud, unsafe practices, or violations of public trust, whistleblowers protect consumers, the public, and honest businesses. But make no mistake: exposing corporate wrongdoing often requires more than just shining a light on bad behavior. Companies rarely change their practices voluntarily, and their typical response to whistleblowers is to force them to litigation.

The Power of the False Claims Act

Fraud against the government isn’t new. From overcharging for services to delivering defective products, unethical companies have long sought to profit at taxpayers’ expense. Recognizing this, Congress passed the False Claims Act (FCA) during the Civil War—a law that remains one of the most powerful tools to combat government fraud today.

The FCA prohibits actions like submitting false claims for payment, misrepresenting qualifications for government contracts, and charging for defective products. But the government can’t uncover every instance of fraud on its own. That’s where whistleblowers come in.

Under the FCA, private citizens are empowered to file qui tam lawsuits on behalf of the government. By stepping forward, whistleblowers not only protect public resources but may also be entitled to significant financial rewards. A qui tam lawsuit allows private individuals to sue companies or individuals defrauding the government. Acting on behalf of the government, whistleblowers assert claims that state or federal agencies could pursue themselves. If successful, whistleblowers share in the recovery, receiving 15% to 30% of the total damages—a reward that can amount to millions of dollars in large cases.

This financial incentive isn’t just a reward for bravery; it’s a necessary tool to uncover fraud. Without whistleblowers, many illegal schemes would go unchecked. If you suspect fraud, don’t wait.

Protecting Whistleblowers from Retaliation

As an employee, you may have critical intel about your employers’ illegal actions. Blowing the whistle on your employer is not without risk, however, as employers and others may retaliate in an attempt to silence you or punish you for exposing their wrongdoing. However, the FCA provides robust protections for whistleblowers. Retaliation is illegal, whether it takes the form of termination, demotion, harassment, or other forms of discrimination, such as:

• Receiving unfairly negative performance reviews or disciplinary actions.

• Being transferred to less favorable positions.

• Facing exclusion from promotions, perks, or necessary training.

• Enduring verbal abuse, slurs, or threats.

Even subtle forms of retaliation, such as changes in workload, hours or exclusion from office activities, may be illegal.

At Antonyan Miranda, we understand the complexities of whistleblower lawsuits. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong legal strategy, and fight relentlessly to ensure your claims are heard.

From uncovering evidence of fraud to countering employer retaliation, we’re here to stand by your side every step of the way.

Antonyan Miranda- Protect Yourself at All Times®