Helping Employees Facing Retaliation

When a workplace becomes hostile or adverse actions are taken against you as an employee, it may be possible that you are the target of retaliation. It is not uncommon for an employer to act against an employee to punish them for making a complaint, raising an issue or asserting other substantive claims at work. If you find yourself in this situation, then a lawyer can help.

I am Michael W. DeWitt, founder of DeWitt Law, LLC, and I have over 20 years of experience representing employees throughout Columbus and the surrounding areas in all aspects of labor and employment law. I am on your side at every stage of the case, providing you with the information and guidance you need to understand your rights and options.

What Is Employment Retaliation?

There are many aspects of the legal definition of retaliation by an employer, detailed in both federal and state law. The main factors that you should know are:

• The retaliation is based on a “protected activity,” meaning the employee was legally allowed to make a complaint (such as in a sexual harassment situation) or was out of work on workers’ compensation due to a work injury.
• The employer must be aware of the above activity.
• The employer acted against the employee in a way that had a negative impact on the employee’s job duties, career and/or life.

In state cases, anyone can be sued for retaliation. This means that anyone who assisted the employer in retaliating against the employee, such as a co-worker or even a subordinate, can be held accountable.

What Does Employment Retaliation Look Like?

Employment retaliation is when an employer takes adverse action against an employee who has engaged in a protected activity, such as reporting discrimination or harassment in the workplace. Some examples of employment retaliation may include termination, demotion, reduction in pay or hours, negative performance evaluations, or exclusion from training and advancement opportunities. Retaliation can also come in the form of a hostile work environment, where the employee experiences increased scrutiny, micromanagement or isolation from co-workers. It’s crucial for employees to know their rights and to report any instances of retaliation to the appropriate authorities or legal counsel.

What To Do If Someone Has Retaliated Against You At Work

If you have experienced negative actions at work, such as those listed below, then it is time to enlist my help:

• Termination from your job
• Increased hostility from a boss, co-workers or other employees
• A demotion to a lesser position
• A salary reduction
• A reduction in your benefits

I will meet with you to discuss your case and the situation that brought about the retaliation. From there, we can investigate the claims, gather evidence, and compile a strategy that allows me to take action against the employer and all involved in the retaliation. We may be able to obtain the compensation that will help you move forward.

Talk To Me Now About Your Retaliation Case

Schedule your free case evaluation with me at DeWitt Law, LLC, today. Call my firm at 614-762-9641 or send me an email.