In a rare decision favorable to Michigan whistlblower plaintiffs, the Court of Appeals reversed a trial court’s decision to dismiss a whistleblower case against an employer. But the real lesson that employers and their HR professionals should take from the decision is that timely decision making in the termination process is critical, as well
Whistleblower
Employees and Sainthood – Does Michigan’s Whistleblower Protection Require Both?
In Hays v Lutheran Social Services of Michigan, the Michigan Court of Appeals recently reversed a jury verdict in favor of a former employee who had filed a lawsuit against her employer based on Michigan’s Whistleblower Protection Act (the “WPA”).
The basis for the opinion is important for both Michigan employers and employees with…
An Employer’s Response Guide to Whistleblower Claims
Retaliation against company employees who report inappropriate or illegal action create significant legal risks for employers under whistleblower protection statutes.
Employers, however, can significantly increase their chances of disposing of a whistleblower protection claim if proper policies are in place and by appropriately responding to such reports. The following provides an overview of a whistle…
Avoiding Whistleblower Claims – It’s All in the Employer’s Response
The alleged (mis)handling of an employee’s complaints of wrong-doing by her former employer offers insight on how to avoid a subsequent whistleblower claim or, at least, be in a better position to defend against such claims.
Specifically, a Metro Detroit Employment Law firm was recently sued for violating (ironically) various employment laws. The law firm…
Michigan’s Whistleblowers’ Protection Act: Protecting Employees Who Are “About to Report” A Violation
A recent opinion from the Michigan Court of Appeals illustrates the significant challenges employees have in successfully bringing a certain claim under the Michigan Whistleblowers’ Protection Act (WPA) and opportunities employers have for dismissing such claims.
Challenges for Employees making an “About to Report” Whistleblowers’ Protection Act Claim
Under Michigan’s Whistleblowers’ Protection Act (WPA), MCL…