Retaliation & Whistleblower Protection Attorney Based in Berkeley, CA
Fired or Punished for Speaking Up? You’re Not Alone—And You Have Rights
Legal Help for California Employees Facing Retaliation or Whistleblower Backlash
California law protects workers who report illegal conduct, safety violations, discrimination, or labor abuses. When an employer punishes a worker for doing the right thing—by demoting, isolating, or firing—that may be unlawful.
As a dedicated retaliation and whistleblower attorney based in Berkeley, Kurt represents workers throughout California who have been retaliated against and helps them assert their rights and fight back.
What Retaliation and Whistleblower Violations Look Like
Retaliation can be subtle or obvious—but if it follows protected activity, it’s likely unlawful. Recognizing the connection between your actions and your employer’s response is the first step.
You may have a claim if your employer took action after you:
- Reported harassment, discrimination, or unsafe working conditions
- Filed a workers’ compensation, wage, or labor complaint
- Requested disability accommodations or leave
- Refused to participate in illegal conduct
- Reported fraud, wage theft, or other employer violations
- Supported a colleague’s legal complaint or investigation
If you were demoted, reassigned, harassed, or terminated after taking a stand, you may be protected under California and federal whistleblower laws. Kurt can help you evaluate the case and take action.
How a California Retaliation Attorney Can Help You
Kurt offers tailored, confidential legal support for workers facing retaliation or whistleblower exposure:
Clarifying your legal rights
He explains which actions are protected and assesses whether retaliation likely occurred.
Securing and organizing evidence
The firm gathers communications, timelines, witness accounts, and documentation linking protected activity to employer response.
Filing with the CRD, EEOC, or other agencies
Kurt ensures your claim is filed under the correct statute and jurisdiction—without missed deadlines or procedural errors.
Pursuing full recovery
He seeks comprehensive relief, including lost wages, emotional/psychological damages, job reinstatement, and workplace reforms.
The Legal Process, Step by Step
Consultation
Attorney Dreger reviews your protected activity, employer response, and assesses whether retaliation laws apply.
Filing the Complaint
The firm files your claim with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), EEOC, or other relevant agency, ensuring timely preservation of your rights.
Building Your Case
Dreger Law compiles evidence—including timelines, witness statements, and employer communications—to substantiate your retaliation claim.
Seeking Justice
Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, Attorney Dreger advocates for full accountability and compensation.
The Legal Process, Step by Step
Consultation
Kurt reviews the employee’s experience, identifies red flags, and determines whether discrimination laws may have been violated.
Informal Resolution
If the case has merit, we first reach out to the Defendant and suggest an informal resolution, with the goal of reaching a fair settlement.
Initiate Litigation
The firm files claims in the appropriate jurisdiction and serves the Complaint on all defendants. This initiates litigation.
Discovery and Motions
Gathers supporting documents, witness statements, and employer communications to build a strong case depending on the circumstances, motions will be filed and/or defended. Throughout the entire process, however, Kurt maintains a strong suggestion to resolve the case before trial, typically through mediation..
Resolution
Kurt seeks outcomes that restore dignity and provide meaningful compensation—whether through settlement or litigation.
Experienced Retaliation Attorney in Berkeley
Kurt has over 13 years of experience helping California workers navigate complex retaliation and whistleblower cases.
Direct, One-on‑One Support
Clients work directly with Kurt throughout the process—no delays, no handoffs.
Virtual and Statewide Representation
Kurt Dreger Law Office serves clients across California—including the Bay Area and beyond—through both virtual and in‑person consultations.
Safety‑Focused Legal Insight
With a background in occupational health and safety, Kurt understands the risks employees face when reporting violations—and how employers often try to retaliate.
FAQs
Retaliation & Whistleblower
What counts as “protected activity”?
Reporting discrimination, unsafe conditions, wage violations, fraud, harassment, or refusing illegal activity are all protected activities.
Does retaliation only mean being fired?
No. Demotions, reduced hours, isolation, schedule changes, or threats may all qualify as retaliation.
How do I prove my employer retaliated?
Timing is key. If negative treatment began shortly after your protected activity, it may support a claim.
Are whistleblower complaints confidential?
In many cases, yes. Dreger Law helps you take steps to protect your identity when possible.
Speak Up. Let Kurt Protect You.
If you were punished for doing the right thing at work, you don’t have to go it alone. Kurt is ready to help you explore your rights, protect your future, and hold your employer accountable.