The workplace should be a space where employees feel empowered to report unethical, illegal, or harmful practices without fear of retaliation. Unfortunately, the reality is often different. If you have experienced retaliation after speaking up about wrongdoing at your job, the New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) may protect you. At Carcich O’Shea, we understand the challenges you face in these situations and are committed to helping you stand up for your rights.
CEPA, often referred to as New Jersey’s whistleblower law, is one of the strongest workplace protection laws in the United States. It safeguards employees who report misconduct or refuse to participate in illegal activities. Whether you have been terminated, demoted, or otherwise retaliated against, our Ridgewood CEPA lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process and pursue justice on your behalf.
The Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) is a robust state law designed to protect employees who are exposed to or object to workplace wrongdoing. It applies to both public and private sector workers, shielding them from retaliatory actions by their employers. CEPA covers a wide range of activities, from reporting unsafe working conditions to disclosing fraudulent business practices.
To qualify for CEPA protection, employees must have a reasonable belief that the activity they are reporting violates a law, regulation, or established public policy. Reporting suspected violations to a supervisor, government body, or public entity is protected under CEPA, as is refusing to participate in illegal or unethical practices.
Examples of activities protected under CEPA include:
By offering these protections, CEPA ensures that employees can act in the public interest without fearing personal or professional retaliation.
Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse actions against an employee for engaging in protected activities. These actions may be direct, such as firing the employee, or more subtle, such as creating a hostile work environment. Understanding the forms retaliation can take is essential when evaluating whether you have a claim under CEPA.
Common examples of retaliation include:
If you believe you are facing retaliation, document the actions taken against you and seek legal advice promptly. CEPA provides strong legal remedies for employees, including reinstatement, back pay, and compensation for emotional distress.
Pursuing a CEPA claim requires careful preparation and adherence to specific legal requirements. At Carcich O’Shea, we guide clients through every step of this process, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices are heard.
The key steps in a CEPA case include:
Filing a CEPA claim can be intimidating, but you do not have to face it alone. Our experienced team will be by your side every step of the way.
At Carcich O’Shea, we have a deep commitment to protecting employee rights. Our Ridgewood CEPA lawyers bring extensive knowledge of New Jersey employment law and a proven track record of success in handling retaliation cases.
When you choose Carcich O’Shea, you gain a legal partner who is dedicated to your cause. We understand the personal and professional toll retaliation can take, and we will fight tirelessly to help you rebuild your career and achieve justice.
Our approach is tailored to each client’s unique situation. We listen to your story, evaluate your case with care, and develop a strategy that meets your needs. From the moment you contact us, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.
Beyond individual cases, CEPA claims play a vital role in creating safer and more ethical workplaces. When employees take a stand against illegal or unethical practices, they send a powerful message that wrongdoing will not be tolerated. Successful CEPA claims can lead to policy changes, improved working conditions, and greater accountability across industries.
If you are considering filing a CEPA claim, you are not just standing up for yourself—you are contributing to a culture of integrity and transparency. At Carcich O’Shea, we are honored to support employees who are making a difference.
If you believe you have been retaliated against for reporting misconduct in your workplace, you have rights under CEPA. Do not wait to take action! The team at Carcich O’Shea is here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve. Speak with the Ridgewood CEPA lawyers at Carcich O’Shea today. Call us at 201-988-1308 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation and learn more about the support and service we can provide. Located in Hackensack, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Bergen County, Edison County, Essex County, Morris County, and Passaic County.
Carcich O’Shea, LLC is dedicated to bringing justice to your
situation. We listen to your situation and provide the best possible way to get a settlement from your
claims. You’re hiring top-notch attorneys by working with us! Mr. Carcich was recently selected for
Super Lawyers, whereas Ms. O’Shea has been named in (201) Magazine’s “Bergen’s Best Attorneys”. We will
manage your case from beginning to end.
If you have more questions about our legal expertise in employment litigation, feel free to contact
us today. Alternatively, you may call us at 201-988-1308 or send an email to
carcichoshea@gmail.com
.
Sheila represented me in two relatively complicated employment litigation matters, both of which resulted in favorable outcomes for me. Sheila impressed me as knowledgeable, accessible, diligent, and exceedingly professional. Her excellent “bedside manner” helped to minimize stress that I know is somewhat inevitable in litigation. I highly recommend Sheila to prospective clients wholeheartedly and without reservation.
I retained the services of Sheila O’Shea-Criscione to represent me against harassment and discrimination in my place of work. She came highly recommended and did not disappoint. Sheila directed me to the right course of action, clearly explaining each step and expected outcome. She was consistently available via phone, email, or text for emotional and professional support. Sheila is an excellent attorney and a warm, kind person. In the midst of a difficult situation, she paved the way to a successful outcome. I am a stronger and more confident person thanks to Sheila!
Sincerely,
Marie Coschigano
After numerous harassment and bullying encounter with my superiors, I was desperate for guidance and help as to what my legal rights were to try and put a stop to this behavior.
I turned to a number of attorneys. After talking on the phone, all declined to take my case. Sheila was the only one who took my call and then invited me to her office to explain my situation, from that first meeting until she resolved the case, she guided and supported me. She was never tired of my phone calls and text messages. There were times when I was on the verge of resigning, but she encouraged me and told me to hang in there and be patient. She was convinced of a positive outcome if we stuck with her “game plan” even when I became skeptical and began to doubt the direction we were going.
If you should ever need legal assistance, I highly recommend Sheila – a great lawyer and a wonderful person.