If your boss breaks the law, it puts you in a tough position – especially if you don’t have a Washington, D.C. employment litigation lawyer on your side. You might worry about losing your job or facing backlash for speaking up. But no one should be forced to accept illegal behavior just to keep working. With over 30 years of legal experience in employment litigation, discrimination, and more, we know what steps you steps you can take to protect yourself and your future.
Document Everything
There’s a lot to document in an employment litigation case. Start by writing down exactly what happened. Include dates, names, locations, and any specific comments or actions that show something unlawful took place. If you have any emails, texts, or messages that support your claims, save copies in a secure place that only you can access. Good records help back up your story if the situation leads to a formal complaint or legal case.
Know What Laws May Apply
There are a number of laws that protect workers from different types of misconduct. If your boss is discriminating based on race, gender, religion, disability, or another protected category, that may be a violation of federal or state employment discrimination laws. The same goes for wage issues, like unpaid overtime or being paid below minimum wage.
Avoid Confronting Your Boss Directly
It might seem like a good idea to talk it out with your boss, especially if you think the issue could be resolved quickly. But if you believe what they’re doing is illegal, it’s usually better not to go straight to them. Confronting them could lead to retaliation, intimidation, or even sudden termination. Instead, consider going to someone higher up in the company or to HR—if you believe they can be trusted to take your concerns seriously.
Consider Using Internal Channels
Many companies have a process in place for reporting issues through human resources or anonymous hotlines. If you feel safe doing so, these channels can be one way to raise your concerns while staying within the company’s structure. Make sure to keep a record of when you reported the issue and who you spoke with.
Report To Outside Agencies If Needed
If internal channels don’t work or don’t feel safe, you may want to report the issue to a government agency. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) handles workplace discrimination claims. The Department of Labor may take wage complaints. Whistleblower protections may apply depending on the situation. In many cases, these agencies can investigate your complaint and provide help.
Talk To Someone Who Understands This Area Of Law
You don’t have to handle this on your own. An employment litigation lawyer can often help bring workplace violations to light and hold employers accountable. Whether you’re dealing with harassment, unpaid wages, or wrongful termination, getting legal advice early can make a real difference.
Contact Us Today
If you think your boss broke the law, don’t let fear stop you from taking action. There are ways to hold employers accountable without putting your livelihood at risk. At Eric Siegel Law, we’ve been righting wrongs for over 30 years. Now, we’re ready to help you. If you’re facing unlawful treatment at work, reach out to us. We’re here to talk through your situation and help you decide what steps to take next.