Attorney James (Jamie) Shoemaker has decades of experience advocating for whistleblowers in Virginia and Washington, D.C. He is listed in Best Lawyers in America, has been recognized in Virginia Business Magazine’s “Legal Elite” for over a decade, and has successfully litigated numerous retaliation claims involving both public and private employers. If you’re facing retaliation, you don’t have to handle it alone.
What Counts as Retaliation?
Retaliation doesn’t always involve firing. It can also include:
- Demotion or reassignment to less desirable duties
- Pay cuts, denial of promotions, or sudden poor performance reviews
- Isolation, exclusion from meetings, or removal from key projects
- Harassment or increased scrutiny by supervisors
- Constructive discharge (being pushed to resign)
The key factor is whether the adverse action happened because you engaged in protected activity, such as reporting fraud, discrimination, harassment, or safety violations.
Document Everything
If you suspect retaliation, start keeping detailed records. Documentation is essential for building a strong legal claim. Save:
- Emails, memos, and texts that show changes in treatment
- Performance reviews before and after your report
- A journal of dates, events, and witnesses
- Any policies, handbooks, or complaint procedures you followed
Avoid using your work email or devices to store sensitive information. Keep backups in a safe place.
Don’t Quit Without Speaking to a Lawyer
Quitting may seem like the only option, but it can weaken your legal position if done without thought and deliberate action. In some cases, staying employed, even if the conditions are difficult, may be necessary to preserve your rights. In others, a constructive discharge claim can still be filed, but, once again, timing and documentation are imperative.
Contact an Attorney Early
Whistleblower retaliation laws offer legal remedies, but deadlines still apply. A qualified attorney can:
- Evaluate whether you’re protected under federal or state law
- Help you report the retaliation appropriately (internally or externally)
- Negotiate a resolution or file a formal complaint
- Seek damages, including reinstatement, back pay, and emotional distress compensation
Many retaliation cases can be resolved through settlement without going to trial, but early legal guidance is essential to navigating this process.
Schedule a Consultation
Attorney James H. Shoemaker has built a national reputation for helping employees hold employers accountable under whistleblower and anti-retaliation laws. With a focus on complex workplace claims involving government contractors, healthcare systems, and large employers, Mr. Shoemaker brings a deep understanding of both federal and Virginia protections. His client-centered approach emphasizes strategic case building and long-term protection for those who step forward.
Call our practice today at 757-223-4560 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We proudly serve clients in Newport News, Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, Washington, D.C., and nationwide.