Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience.
Q:
I work for a federal agency and have concerns about my supervisor’s work habits. He routinely takes long lunches and uses his government phone to conduct personal business, among other things. There are many examples of unethical practices, but am I overreacting? What should be done?
A:
You are describing making yourself a whistleblower. What you are disclosing is a protected disclosure, but many whistleblowers experience reprisal. If you decide to disclose the wrongdoing you believe you are observing and experience reprisal, you may file a claim with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel.
Bill Bransford is managing partner of Shaw Bransford & Roth PC.
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2 Comments
And pray that upper management and the OSC share “your” belief his actions are in fact wrongdoing which would make you a whistle blower. Otherwise you risk being labeled just another malcontent or disgruntled employee in need of a performance improvement program.
I am a supervisor That had an EEO complaint filed against me for Taking an action on an employee, (Discipline)
The charges were not founded,
I would like to know if I can Sue that Employee for deformation of Character.