SOX whistleblower lawyers Archives

Which whistleblower protection laws employ the contributing factor causation standard?

The “contributing factor” causation standard is favorable for whistleblowers. The words “a contributing factor” mean any factor which, alone or in connection with other … Continued

Are second-hand whistleblower reports credible, and do they merit investigation?

Study Reveals that Second-Hand Whistleblower Reports Are Credible A recent study found that second-hand whistleblower reports can be credible and merit investigation. The study found … Continued

What are examples of SOX protected activity (protected whistleblowing)?

SOX Protected Whistleblowing Whistleblowers are protected under SOX for providing information, causing information to be provided, or otherwise assisting in an investigation regarding any conduct … Continued

Are disclosures about bank fraud protected under the Sarbanes-Oxley whistleblower law?

SOX Whistleblower Law Protects Disclosures About Bank Fraud Yes, a disclosure about bank fraud is protected conduct (protected whistleblowing) under the whistleblower protection provision … Continued

Does Section 806 of SOX preempt other claims or remedies?

Section 806 of SOX specifically provides that “[n]othing in this section shall be deemed to diminish the rights, privileges, or remedies of any employee under any Federal or State law, or under any collective bargaining agreement.” 18 U.S.C. § 1514A(d). A whistleblower who is fired for refusing to commit an illegal act could bring both a SOX claim and a common-law wrongful discharge claim. Bringing the latter claim could potentially result in an award of punitive damages. But note that in some states, where there is an adequate statutory remedy to vindicate the public policy objectives, the employee can pursue a retaliation action only through the statute.

Does SOX prohibit employers from “outing” confidential whistleblowers?

Disclosing a whistleblower’s identity may constitute an adverse employment action. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reached this conclusion in a SOX case brought by Anthony Menendez, a former director in Halliburton Inc.’s finance and accounting department.

Is constructive discharge a prohibited act of retaliation under SOX?

Is constructive discharge a prohibited act of retaliation under SOX? Retaliatory termination goes beyond “You’re fired!” Under the SOX whistleblower protection law, constructive discharge … Continued

How can a whistleblower prove retaliation?

Circumstantial Evidence Proving Retaliation Circumstantial evidence of retaliation includes: temporal proximity; indications of pretext; inconsistent application of an employer’s policies; an employer’s shifting explanations for … Continued

Where are SOX whistleblower cases litigated?

A claim under the anti-retaliation provision of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act must be filed initially at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration at the U.S. Department of Labor. They will perform an investigation and if they conclude that the employer violated SOX, OSHA can order preliminary reinstatement.

Can OSHA order the reinstatement of a Sarbanes-Oxley whistleblower?

If OSHA determines there is “reasonable cause” to believe the complaint has merit, with limited exceptions “it shall issue” a preliminary order restoring the complainant to his or her employment status and requiring the employer to take affirmative action to abate the violation. 49 U.S.C. § 42121(b)(3)(B); 29 CFR § 1980.105(a)(1). Reinstatement orders are immediately effective and are not stayed pending the resolution of any objections or appeal. See 49 U.S.C. § 4212 (b)(2)(A).

Is a whistleblower’s motive for engaging in protected activity relevant in a whistleblower protection case?

Motive for engaging in protected activity not relevant in a Sarbanes-Oxley whistleblower-protection case A whistleblower’s motive for engaging in protected conduct is irrelevant. See Henderson … Continued

What is the statute of limitations for a SOX whistleblower retaliation case?

The deadline for a SOX whistleblower to file a complaint is 180 days after they either experience or become aware of the unlawful retaliation.[i] The clock starts ticking once “the discriminatory decision has been both made and communicated to the complainant.”[ii] A complaint is considered filed once the Department of Labor receives it. A complaint sent by mail, however, is considered filed on the date of its postmark.