Obviously, losing a job can inevitably lead to financial problems. However, when employment is lost as a result of retaliation, the experience can also have severe psychological and emotional ramifications. When employers who participate in illegal or unethical activities are exposed, they can often look for revenge. In California, whistleblower laws protect employees from retaliation in the workplace.
A former employee of the city of Adelanto recently filed a wrongful termination lawsuit over allegations that she was terminated in retaliation for reporting unethical activity. Reportedly, the woman had worked for the city for over 31 years. According to the lawsuit, the mayor at the time orchestrated a plan to bring in one of his friends as a contracted consultant to allow cannabis companies into the city to operate unchecked.
The lawsuit alleges that the mayor wanted his friend in the role of city manager, occupied by the plaintiff at the time, and conspired to remove the plaintiff. In an upcoming election, the mayor and his friend sought to have a pro-cannabis official elected, according to claims. Allegedly, the plaintiff filed a complaint that the pro-cannabis official did not meet eligibility requirements. Not long after this, the plaintiff says she was terminated without cause.
No person should be punished for doing the right thing. Whistleblower laws in California give protection to employees who report violations or unethical activity in the workplace. Employees who have suffered retaliation or harassment in the workplace can benefit from discussions with an attorney experienced in employment law. Damages from a successful lawsuit could help recover lost wages and other monetary losses.