The Jacobs Law Group is among a small number of boutique litigation firms that represents both individual plaintiffs (i.e., “relators”) and corporate defendants in federal and state whistleblower actions. Because we represent clients on both sides of the docket, we bring unique perspectives to whistleblower actions. Whether we’re pursuing a relator grievance or defending a business, we always leverage our extensive courtroom experience and formidable trial skills to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Whistleblower statutes are important because they provide a means for exposing fraud and misconduct. But because of the large financial incentives involved in whistleblower actions, they often lack merit. For that reason, we carefully assess all prospective whistleblower-related representations, and only accept those matters we truly believe in.
A whistleblower is an individual with knowledge of illegal conduct. Whistleblowers are often employed by entities allegedly engaged in illegal acts.
Whistleblowers who expose fraud against the government can file a qui tam lawsuit on the government’s behalf. The whistleblower is called a “relator,” and the government is considered the actual plaintiff. These proceedings are sealed while law enforcement agencies within the government investigate, and the government has the right to join (or “intervene”) in the action.
Whistleblowers are entitled to substantial compensation if they prevail in court. Depending on whether the government intervenes, whistleblowers can receive between 15% and 30% of all proceeds ultimately awarded to the government.
The federal Whistleblower Protection Act and the California Whistleblower Protection Act prohibit employers from retaliating against whistleblowers. Retaliation can take many forms, and may include termination, demotion, denial of promotion, reduction in work hours or pay, denial of benefits, failure to hire or rehire, intimidation, threats or harassment, blacklisting, or the creation of intolerable working conditions, among others.
Whistleblower claims often involve health care providers, investment firms, financial institutions, and government contractors, and may implicate any of the following unlawful practices:
If you have knowledge of misconduct – or if your company has been accused of misconduct – contact the Jacobs Law Group for a complimentary and confidential consultation today.
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