For much of the history of Michigan, workers could be scared into silence about problems at work. No one wants to lose their job as a sacrifice for reporting unsafe conditions, unfair supervisors or employee harassment. Fortunately, the governments in Washington and Lansing have made it a little easier for whistleblowers to avoid retaliation.
A recent lawsuit against a county in the Wolverine State wrapped up with a settlement for two employees who claimed they were dismissed unfairly. The dispute began in 2017 when the man and woman were fired from the county clerk’s office.
The plaintiffs claimed they were the victims of retaliation by the woman who held the office of county clerk at the time. The incident happened after the pair reported openly hostile treatment of employees as well as other potential violations of office policy.
The suit sought reinstatement for the former workers as well as financial damages and compensation for legal fees. The county corporation settled the suit for a total of $110,000 in a cash payout.
Settlements to end whistleblower lawsuits are common, especially when the evidence suggests that the plaintiffs are on the right side of justice and the law. Although it may not seem like the ideal solution for people who made the effort to call out improper behavior, settlements can help get people’s careers back on track and give them the resources to move on.
An attorney can investigate the causes of unfair dismissal and other forms of retaliation against whistleblowers. Legal representation is a key factor in handling these issues for the benefit of plaintiffs.