As an employee in Pennsylvania, you have important rights in the workplace. If these rights are violated, you may be able to file a lawsuit or report your employer to federal or state authorities, who have the power to take enforcement action. Before filing a report, it is essential to understand your rights and potential risks. Employers may attempt retaliation, so speaking with an experienced employment lawyer beforehand is strongly recommended.
Can My Employer Retaliate Against Me?
When you report employer misconduct to a government agency, you are legally protected against retaliation. Your employer cannot fire you, demote you, reduce your pay, deny benefits, or take other adverse employment actions as a direct response to your complaint.
However, some employers may disguise retaliatory actions under a pretext unrelated to your report. In such cases, it would be up to you, with your attorney’s guidance, to gather evidence showing that the employer’s actions were retaliatory to support a potential legal claim.
Should I Report the Violation Internally First?
In many situations, it is advisable to address workplace violations internally before going outside your organization. Reporting internally can feel intimidating, but your legal protections often begin the moment you raise your concerns within your workplace. Depending on the nature of the issue, you may consider speaking with your supervisor, human resources, or both.
Documenting your internal reports can also strengthen your case if the situation escalates.
Do I Have the Right to Have My Complaint Heard and Investigated?
Employees in Pennsylvania have the right to report misconduct to state or federal authorities. Common reportable violations include:
- Sexual harassment or other forms of workplace harassment.
- Violations of federal or state wage and hour laws.
- Safety violations under OSHA standards.
- Whistleblower protections for reporting illegal or unsafe practices.
- Other forms of workplace discrimination.
Once a report is filed, the relevant government agency will investigate. Investigations vary in scope, and you will typically be informed of the outcome. If violations are found, the employer could face enforcement actions, fines, or other penalties. In some cases, agencies may pursue legal action on your behalf or work to secure a settlement.
How Do I Protect My Rights as a Philadelphia Employee?
Before reporting misconduct, familiarize yourself with your legal protections. Document everything related to your employment, including performance evaluations, emails, and other communications. Keeping detailed records is essential if you need to demonstrate retaliation or support a claim.
Consulting an experienced employment attorney can help you understand your rights, assess potential risks, and guide you through the reporting process while minimizing exposure to retaliation.
Contact the Philadelphia Employment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C.
The Philadelphia employment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. are committed to protecting the rights of employees who have experienced workplace misconduct. We can help you understand your options, defend your rights, and pursue financial compensation if appropriate. Schedule a free initial consultation today by calling 215-569-1999 or contacting us online. Our offices are located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, NJ, and we serve clients in South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Northeast Philadelphia, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lehigh County, Montgomery County, and Cherry Hill.
