Best Whistleblower & Qui Tam Lawyers in London

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Monaco Solicitors, Employment Law Solicitors

Monaco Solicitors, Employment Law Solicitors

London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
About usOur mission is to increase access to justice for individuals who have been treated badly at work. We strive to achieve this mission both...
English

About Whistleblower & Qui Tam Law in London, United Kingdom

Whistleblowing, also known as Qui Tam in some jurisdictions, is the exposing of illicit or unethical practices by an organization. In the United Kingdom, whistleblowing regulations, notably the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (PIDA), protect individuals who 'blow the whistle' from detrimental treatment or victimisation in the workplace. However, there is no Qui Tam law in the United Kingdom as it originates from U.S. legislation, where a private individual who assists a prosecution can receive all or part of any penalty imposed.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer who specializes in whistleblower law can be crucial in complex and sensitive situations. If you're considering exposing illicit activities, professional legal guidance can help you ensure proper procedures are followed while protecting your rights. It's also beneficial to have a lawyer if you have already blown the whistle and are facing social ostracism, professional backlash, or criminal accusations as a result.

Local Laws Overview

United Kingdom's primary legal protection for whistleblowers is provided under the PIDA. It protects workers who disclose information that reveals malpractice, criminal offences, or dangers to public health and safety. It is unlawful for employers to subject whistleblowers to any form of detriment, nor can they be unfairly dismissed on the grounds of whistleblowing. PIDA also stipulates that disclosures must be made in the public interest but does not require the whistleblower to have a direct personal interest in the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to disclose my identity when whistle-blowing?

Generally, you can make an anonymous disclosure. However, it will likely make it harder to protect your rights and might make the investigation of the issue more difficult.

Can I be fired for whistleblowing?

It is against the law to unfairly dismiss whistleblowers for making protected disclosures under PIDA. If you have been dismissed for whistleblowing, you could potentially bring a case for unfair dismissal.

What constitutes a 'protected disclosure'?

A 'protected disclosure' is a disclosure of information which, in the reasonable belief of the worker, is made in the public interest, and tends to show one or more of the following: criminal offences, failure to comply with a legal obligation, miscarriages of justice, endangering health and safety, environmental damage, or the cover-up of wrongdoing in these areas.

Who do I make the disclosure to?

The disclosure can be made to your employer or to a prescribed person or body. If you do not feel comfortable disclosing to your employer, or the appropriate 'prescribed person', a public disclosure can be made in certain circumstances.

Is there a time limit for making a disclosure?

No, there is no time limit for making a protected disclosure. But the sooner you raise the concern the easier it is to take action.

Additional Resources

The UK Government provides resources and guidance for whistleblowing, detailed on their website. In addition, non-profit organizations such as Protect (formerly Public Concern at Work) or Whistleblowers UK can provide assistance.

Next Steps

If you need legal advice or assistance related to whistleblowing, it is generally a good idea to consult a lawyer. It’s advisable to prepare your case thoroughly by documenting all associated activities and interactions. Having a frank discussion with your lawyer about your situation and your expected outcomes can assist in guiding your next steps.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.