Why it can be hard to be a whistleblower

On Behalf of | Oct 19, 2018 | Whistleblower Protection |

Most parents teach their kids to do what is right and to step up when it seems as though something is wrong. This foundational principle is instilled in kids at school, through their activities, and as parts of their local communities. A Minnesota youth may carry that message with them as they grow into a competent adult and may take that value with them when they transition into their career.

It can, therefore, feel natural for a person to feel compelled to speak up when they see their employer doing something wrong. Not all legal infractions committed by employers are intentional; an employee may find that they have discovered an otherwise latent issue and that their illumination of the issue is welcomed by their employer.

Rather, some employers seek to intimidate or harass their employees into keeping their mouths shut when they see problems that violate the law. An employee who speaks out about the wrongdoing of their employer is called a whistleblower, and because whistleblowers have historically faced employment discrimination and retaliation, their status has been recognized and protected by certain laws.

An employee that knows that something wrong is occurring at their job may fear what will happen if they become a whistleblower. They should know, however, that doing the right thing is encouraged under the law and that their status as a whistleblower avails them of certain rights. Individuals in this tough situation may wish to consult with experienced employment law attorneys about their rights as whistleblowers.