Gainesville Whistleblower & Retaliation Lawyer

Protecting Those Who Speak the Truth

It takes immense courage to report illegal or unethical conduct at your workplace. You did the right thing, and the law is supposed to protect you. When your employer punishes you for it, you need a powerful advocate in your corner. At Massey & Duffy, PLLC, Gainesville attorney Michael O. Massey is dedicated to defending whistleblowers, fighting illegal retaliation, and ensuring that your bravery is rewarded, not punished.

What Does Illegal Retaliation Look Like?

Retaliation isn't always as obvious as being fired. It can be any negative action your employer takes that would deter a reasonable person from reporting misconduct. If you spoke up and are now facing any of the following, your rights may have been violated:

  • Sudden, unfair negative performance reviews.

  • Being demoted, reassigned to a less desirable role, or having your duties reduced.

  • Being excluded from meetings, projects, or communications.

  • Harassment or hostility from managers or colleagues.

  • Denial of a raise or promotion.

  • Getting fired or "laid off" under suspicious circumstances.

A Powerful Ally for a High-Stakes Fight

Whistleblower cases, especially those involving financial fraud, demand an exceptionally high level of legal and financial skill. Michael Massey’s elite background provides a crucial advantage.

1. Expertise in Complex Financial Fraud
With an advanced law degree (LL.M.) in Taxation and as a former Senior Tax Consultant at Deloitte, Michael is uniquely equipped to understand and litigate cases involving tax evasion, securities violations, and government contract fraud. He can unravel complex schemes that other attorneys might miss.

2. A Federal Court Insider's Perspective
As a former judicial clerk for a Chief Judge in the U.S. District Court, Michael gained invaluable insight into how federal judges and prosecutors analyze whistleblower and False Claims Act cases. He knows how to build a case that is designed to be compelling to the government.

3. Fearless and Strategic Litigators
We prepare every case for a fight. This meticulous preparation and our reputation as formidable trial lawyers ensure that your employer—and the government—take your claim seriously from day one.

Types of Whistleblower Cases We Handle

We represent clients who have blown the whistle on a wide range of illegal activities.

Reporting Fraud Against the Government (Qui Tam / False Claims Act)

If you reported your employer for defrauding the government (e.g., Medicare/Medicaid fraud, defense contract overbilling), you may be protected by the False Claims Act. In these qui tam cases, you not only have protection from retaliation, but you may also be entitled to a significant percentage of the funds the government recovers.

Reporting Internal Discrimination & Harassment

You are also protected for reporting illegal workplace conduct internally, such as:

  • Sexual harassment

  • Racial, age, or disability discrimination

  • Violations of FMLA or ADA

Reporting Other Illegal or Unsafe Activity

We protect employees who report a wide range of other violations, including:

  • Securities violations (Sarbanes-Oxley & Dodd-Frank Acts)

  • Workplace safety violations (OSHA)

  • Environmental law violations

  • Tax fraud

Securing Justice and Potential Whistleblower Rewards

We fight to make you whole and to hold your employer accountable. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to recover:

  • Lost Wages and Benefits (Back Pay and Front Pay)

  • Emotional Distress Damages

  • Punitive Damages to punish the employer

  • A Percentage of the Government's Recovery (in Qui Tam cases)

  • Attorneys' Fees and Costs

Your Courage Deserves Protection

You stood up for what was right. Now, let us stand up for you. If you are facing retaliation for being a whistleblower, contact Massey & Duffy, PLLC today for a confidential case evaluation to understand your rights and protections.