Frequently Asked Questions About California and Nevada Whistleblowing Issues

Answers from seasoned attorneys in San Diego and Reno

At The Drakulich Firm, A Professional Law Corporation, we know that people often have questions when they consult us about a whistleblower matter. As attorneys with offices in California and Nevada, who are experienced handling whistleblower cases, we’re happy to provide answers.  On this page, we’ve done just that: provided answers to questions we frequently receive in our whistleblower practice.

If you have other questions, want to discuss a specific situation that concerns you and wonder whether you may have a whistleblower claim, contact us for a free initial consultation.

• What is the False Claims Act?
• Who can bring a whistleblower claim?
• Is there a reward if a whistleblower lawsuit succeeds?
• Am I legally protected from retaliation by my company?
• Why do I need an experienced whistleblower lawyer?

Discuss your case with an experienced whistleblower claims lawyer

To learn more about how The Drakulich Firm, A Professional Law Corporation can represent you in your whistleblower claim, call us at 877-736-3711 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our appointment schedule is flexible for your convenience. Our offices are located in San Diego, CA and Reno, NV.

What is the False Claims Act?

The False Claims Act is a federal law that addresses whistleblower claims for fraud against companies that provide products and services to the government and the military. The act specifies how such claims may be brought, litigated and resolved, and describes the penalties when fraud is confirmed. Because the False Claims Act and state whistleblower laws govern whistleblower claims, you should have an attorney who understands these laws, such as the California and Nevada whistleblower attorneys of The Drakulich Firm.

Who can bring a whistleblower claim?

A whistleblower claim is typically brought by an employee who sees evidence of wrongdoing or fraud in his or her company. Other employees may be able to join in the claim.

Is there a reward if a whistleblower lawsuit succeeds?

Yes. For qui tam cases, in which a private individual brings a whistleblower lawsuit with the government against a company, the individual receives a percentage of the penalty payments. In a whistleblower suit to which the government is not a party, the plaintiff (the person bringing the suit) may receive damages as specified in the suit and as determined by a jury or judge.

Am I legally protected from retaliation by my company?

Yes. State laws make it illegal to retaliate against a whistleblower. Additional penalties and fines can be brought against companies who attempt to retaliate. Some forms of retaliation can be subtle and hard to prove, unfortunately. At The Drakulich Firm we understand how important it is for whistleblowers to trust their attorneys, as attorneys may offer their only shield from retaliation. We do all we can to forge trusting relationships with our clients, keeping the lines of communication open.

Why do I need an experienced whistleblower lawyer?

There are many reasons why an attorney experienced with whistleblower cases, such as our attorneys at The Drakulich Firm, should be hired for a whistleblower matter:

• Whistleblower laws are complex and differ from state to state
• Large corporations have on-staff attorneys and the resources to hire powerful, experienced law firms to defend themselves against a suit
• The plaintiff bringing the suit may face retaliation and may need protection

Our attorneys have experienced these situations and can help advocate for and defend our whistleblower clients.