What Are Your Legal Rights as a Whistleblower in California? [2025 Guide]

If you have decided to make the courageous decision to become a whistleblower, you probably have a lot on your mind. This is a big decision, and it can come with a lot of fear and confusion. Fortunately, with the help of a California whistleblower protection lawyer, you can get answers to questions like, “What are your legal rights as a whistleblower in California?”

You can find answers, protection, and assistance at Park APC. If you are facing retaliation from your employer, the lawyers at our firm can take on your case. Your lawyer can explain the legal ramifications of whistleblower rights in California. After discussing your situation with them, they can build your case, gather evidence, and do what they can to protect you from unjust and illegal retaliation.

What Are the Legal Rights of Whistleblowers in California?

In 2022, the California Government Whistleblower Program received 1,075 whistleblower allegations. In this state, the Whistleblower Protection Act allows employees to report anything going on at their place of employment that does not meet state and/or federal laws and regulations.

If you are a whistleblower or are considering reporting some form of wrongdoing at your workplace, it is wise to discuss the legal rights of being a whistleblower with a whistleblower protection lawyer.

The California Whistleblower Protection Act

California passed the Whistleblower Protection Act to protect employees who report illegal activity. This act also protects the public by shielding individuals who may tell authorities about dangerous environmental or construction practices, for example.

Employees and concerned citizens can file a report with the California State Auditor. The legislation also shields employees from all forms of retaliation by their employers, who may face further criminal and civil penalties if they attack a whistleblowing employee in this manner.

Because of the sheer importance of whistleblowers, it is important to maintain these protections for them. Under California Labor Code Section 1102.5, if any employer engages in retaliation against an employee who blows the whistle, the employer may be forced to:

• Reinstate the employee’s employment and work benefits.
• Pay any lost wages in addition to civil monetary penalties.
• Take any other necessary steps to comply with whistleblower protection laws.

Here are some examples of what employers are not legally permitted to do in response to a whistleblower:

• Employers are not permitted to make, adopt, or enforce any regulation, policy, or rule that prevents an employee from being a whistleblower.
• Employers may not retaliate in any way against any employee who is a whistleblower or whom they may perceive to be a whistleblower.
• Employers cannot retaliate in any way against any employee who refuses to participate in an activity that would lead to violating or not complying with any state or federal laws or regulations.
• Employers may not retaliate in any way against an employee who is exercising their rights as a whistleblower in any former employment.

When you and your Los Angeles whistleblower protection lawyer decide to file a claim, you can do so with the California State Auditor. You can move forward with confidence, knowing that you have a lawyer on your side who can explain each step of the process. With their guidance, you can feel comfortable with each decision. The advocacy of a skilled whistleblower protection lawyer enables whistleblowers to pursue a better workplace for themselves and everyone else involved.

FAQs About Legal Rights as a Whistleblower in California

How Much Does a Whistleblower Protection Lawyer Cost in California?

The final cost of a whistleblower protection lawyer tends to vary by case in California. This is due to the unique nature of every case. However, a few typical aspects will impact the overall price, such as how long your case lasts, how complex your case is, and the lawyer you choose to hire. At Park APC, we can build a case that you feel is worthy of every cent you may spend.

What Is the New Law That Employers Must Follow Regarding Whistleblowers in California?

As of January 1st, 2025, Assembly Bill No. 2299 legally requires the California Labor Commissioner to create and then publish a model notice of all employees’ rights and protections under California’s whistleblower protection laws. Employers are allowed to reword the notice as long as their version includes the state whistleblower hotline, and the notice must be written in at least 14-point typeface. If these requirements are met, then the employer has fulfilled their obligations.

What Evidence Do I Need to Create a Whistleblowing Case?

When you are building a whistleblowing case, it is important to gather any evidence you feel is even remotely relevant to your case. Evidence comes in many forms, such as:

• Emails
• Texts
• Recorded phone calls
• Videos
• Pictures
• Witness testimonies
• Written accounts
• Any other relevant documentation, like medical or financial records

Whistleblower cases are usually won by a surplus of evidence gathered over time. Every little bit can be used to strengthen your case, even if it seems small.

Can I Be a Whistleblower and Remain Anonymous in California?

Yes, you are legally allowed to be a whistleblower and still remain anonymous in California. Your employers are, however, legally allowed to try to figure out who the whistleblower is. Also, cases may sometimes fall through if the whistleblower remains anonymous. For example, a whistleblower may be called to testify in court about their employer’s legal violations.

Get Representation Today

It takes tremendous courage to draw attention to workplace flaws, corruption, and danger, and it can feel incredibly risky to do so by yourself. Not only could you face termination, but you could potentially be made to endure accusations and attacks on your character for standing up for what is right. Luckily, you do not need to take on this burden alone.

The lawyers at Park APC can build a strong whistleblowing case, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf. With skill and compassion, your lawyer can guide you throughout your case, providing clarity and encouragement as you courageously pursue justice and a safer workplace for yourself and many other people. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.