Witnessing corporate misconduct in New York can lead to a dilemma. Do you speak up, risking potential retaliation, or stay silent and let the issue fester?
Fortunately, New York has robust whistleblower protections, empowering employees to report wrongdoing. But, you’ll want to keep in mind that careful preparation can strengthen your case and safeguard your well-being.
Do these three things first
Calling out wrongdoing or corporate misconduct is a noble and brave act. However, it can sometimes compromise a whistleblower’s employment and safety. Taking these preemptive steps before you blow the whistle may help you steer clear of trouble in any form:
- Solidify your case. Ensure the activity violates the law or seriously threatens public health or safety. Gather evidence – emails, memos or recordings (check state recording laws) – to substantiate your claims. Mere vagaries may not warrant an investigation and could lead to retaliation even without a whistleblower case.
- Document everything. Create as detailed a timeline of events as possible. Some things to document include dates and times of unlawful conduct, the names of potential witnesses and specific details of the wrongdoing. A comprehensive log of events and facts can strengthen your credibility and give investigators a clear picture of the matter.
- Secure all evidence. Keep the evidence you have gathered and your whistleblower log or journal secure and locked away. Consider renting a safety deposit box or leaving it with your representative. You want to ensure no one except you and whomever you authorize can access your case materials.
New York offers support and protection for whistleblowers, but legal representation can strengthen your sense of security. A skilled legal team can also help to safeguard your interests if someone tries to retaliate against you for blowing the whistle.
