Each year, hundreds of “qui tam” cases are filed by whistleblowers, also known as “relators”, on behalf of the United States government. “Qui Tam” stems from the Latin “qui tam pro domino rege quam pro sic ipso in hoc parte sequitur” meaning “who as well for the king as for himself sues in this matter.”
“Qui tam” cases typically come from employees who are fired or threatened with termination when they come forward with workplace violations or other illegal acts to the authorities. Unfair actions from an employer are against the law and employees in Sacramento are protected under whistleblower legislation. In many cases, whistleblowers can claim compensation for lost wages, and psychological or emotional distress.
Whistleblower laws are in effect to protect employees who are courageous enough to step forward and take a stand for what is right. Our experienced Sacramento employment law attorneys can be your support throughout this process as we legally advocate for your rights.
Under California law, an employer may not fire an employee in retaliation for that employee engaging in blowing the whistle, which generally consists of complaining about or reporting certain specified conduct that he/she reasonably perceives to be unlawful, fraudulent or unethical conduct. While complaints about discrimination or harassment are protected from retaliation by statute, many other complaints about illegal or unethical conduct may also be protected under various California whistleblower statutes or the common law doctrine of wrongful termination in violation of public policy.
Our skilled Sacramento whistleblower attorneys are committed to fighting for our clients in their efforts to combat retaliation. We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the financial recovery and protection they deserve.
For those in Florida, before coming forward with a qui tam action it is important understand the Federal FCA, Florida’s differences, the benefits and protections provided to persons whistleblowing and how the Florida False Claims Act works. You might want to speak with a lawyer to get a better understanding of the State of Florida false claims act.
