North Carolina Whistleblower Law & Qui Tam Attorneys
Speaking out against wrongdoing takes courage, especially when it involves your employer. At Barrett & Farahany, we represent individuals who stand up against powerful opposition. We understand the challenges you face and are here to ensure your voice is heard. Our firm is dedicated to fighting for your rights, with a particular focus on representing North Carolina employees in employment law, whistleblower cases, and qui tam cases.
Our North Carolina employment law attorneys will walk you through the protections available to you, explain the process of filing a claim, and show how our experienced attorneys can help. If you believe you have witnessed fraud or have been retaliated against for reporting it, we want to help you navigate the next steps.
Understanding North Carolina Whistleblower Protection
Whistleblower protection laws exist to shield employees who report illegal activities, fraud, or abuse of authority. In North Carolina, these laws are crucial for encouraging individuals to come forward without fear of losing their jobs or facing other forms of retaliation. The primary law offering this protection is the North Carolina False Claims Act.
However, blowing the whistle is not without risks. Employees may face termination, demotion, harassment, or other negative actions from their employers. These challenges make it essential for whistleblowers to understand their rights and seek skilled legal counsel to protect their careers and well-being.
Overview of the North Carolina False Claims Act
The North Carolina False Claims Act is a powerful tool that empowers private citizens to take action against fraud committed against state or local governments. It allows individuals with knowledge of such fraud to file what is known as a “qui tam” lawsuit on behalf of the state.
This legal mechanism is designed to recover funds lost to deceptive practices. Common examples of fraud covered by the Act include:
- Presenting false or fraudulent claims for payment to the state.
- Using false records to avoid paying money owed to the government.
- Misusing government property or funds.
- Conspiring with others to commit fraud against the government.
A key feature of the False Claims Act is that the lawsuit is initially filed “under seal,” meaning it is kept confidential from the public and the accused party while the government investigates the claim.
Qui Tam Lawsuits: Protecting Against Fraud
A qui tam lawsuit allows a private individual, known as a “relator,” to sue on behalf of the government. The relator is the whistleblower who brings the fraud to light. This legal process is vital for uncovering and preventing fraud that might otherwise go unnoticed.
If the lawsuit is successful and the government recovers funds, the relator is entitled to a portion of the money as a reward. This incentive recognizes the significant personal and professional risks whistleblowers often take. The reward can be a substantial percentage of the total amount recovered, which can include:
- Treble damages, meaning three times the amount of the government’s losses.
- Fines of $5,500 to $11,000 for each false claim submitted.
- Payment of the whistleblower’s attorney’s fees and costs.
This system not only compensates whistleblowers but also holds fraudulent actors accountable for their actions.
Filing Under Seal: Ensuring Confidentiality and Protection
Confidentiality is one of the most critical aspects of a whistleblower case. The North Carolina False Claims Act requires that qui tam lawsuits be filed under seal. This means the case details, including the whistleblower’s identity, are kept secret from the defendant and the public for an initial period.
This confidential filing serves two main purposes:
- It protects the whistleblower from immediate retaliation by their employer.
- It allows the government time to conduct its own investigation into the allegations without tipping off the fraudulent party.
During the sealed period, the government reviews the evidence provided by the relator and decides whether to intervene and take over the case. This initial phase is crucial, and having an experienced attorney to guide you through it is essential for a successful outcome.
Barrett & Farahany: Your Advocates
At Barrett & Farahany, we are committed to being strong advocates for North Carolina employees. We have extensive experience handling complex employment law cases, including:
- Sexual harassment
- Discrimination
- Retaliation
- Hostile work environments
- FMLA Leave
- Overtime Pay
- Whistleblowers
- Qui tam cases
- And more.
We understand what it takes to stand up to powerful entities. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights, guiding you through the intricate legal process, and fighting for the justice you deserve.
We know how difficult it can be to challenge an employer, and we are here to share that burden. Our firm has built a track record of success by tirelessly working to ensure our clients’ voices are heard and their rights are upheld.
Take the Next Step with Barrett & Farahany
If you believe you have witnessed fraud, have experienced retaliation, or any other illegal workplace action, you do not have to face this situation alone. When you contact Barrett & Farahany, you will receive a complimentary consultation with one of our skilled North Carolina employment attorneys.
During this initial meeting, we will review the details of your situation, explain your legal rights, and help you understand the best course of action for your specific circumstances. We are prepared to listen to your story and provide the personalized legal advice you need.
If you are ready to seek justice and hold wrongdoing accountable, we are here to advocate on your behalf. Contact us today to protect your rights and make your voice heard.
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