Picture this: Rebecca, a senior marketing specialist at a tech startup in Stamford, notices her employer engaging in deceptive advertising practices. Concerned about the ethical and legal implications, she raises the issue with upper management. Instead of addressing her concerns, the company cuts her budget, reduces her responsibilities, and eventually demotes her to a less influential role. This kind of scenario illustrates workplace retaliation—a common, yet illegal, reaction by employers when employees speak up or exercise their rights.

What Is Workplace Retaliation?

Workplace retaliation refers to any negative action an employer takes against an employee because they engaged in a legally protected activity. To define retaliation in the workplace, it means punishing an employee for asserting their rights or opposing unlawful practices. Common workplace retaliation examples include firing, demotion, pay reduction, or creating a hostile work environment.
These actions can leave employees feeling powerless and fearful about their job security.

At Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC, we understand how upsetting it can be to face retaliation. Our experienced workplace retaliation lawyers are here to help employees fight back and protect their rights.

Protected Activities and Employer Violations

When employees engage in certain legally protected activities, employers are prohibited from retaliating against them. So, what is retaliation in the workplace under the law? It happens when an employer punishes an employee for actions such as reporting discrimination or harassment, refusing to engage in illegal behavior, filing a whistleblower complaint, or requesting medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). These protections exist to encourage employees to stand up for themselves and others without fear of retribution.

Connecticut offers strong protections against workplace retaliation. For instance, under Connecticut General Statutes sec. 31-51m, employers cannot retaliate against whistleblowers who report illegal activities to government authorities. Additionally, the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act makes it illegal to retaliate against employees who report or oppose discriminatory practices.
Federal laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, also prohibit retaliation linked to discrimination claims.

How Workplace Retaliation Harms Employees

Workplace retaliation manifests in various ways, and its impact on employees can be profound.
Imagine an employee who reports unsafe working conditions and then faces unwarranted negative performance reviews. Another example could be a worker who files a harassment claim only to find themselves excluded from important meetings or opportunities for advancement. These retaliatory actions not only harm the individual employee but also create a toxic workplace environment.

If you suspect retaliation, consulting with a workplace retaliation attorney is crucial. Our team at Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC has a strong track record handling cases involving wrongful termination, demotion, and other adverse actions.

Your Legal Rights and How We Can Help

When employers retaliate, they violate state and federal laws designed to protect employees.
Victims of retaliation may be entitled to remedies such as job reinstatement, back pay, compensation for emotional distress, and even punitive damages. However, pursuing these claims can be difficult without skilled legal guidance, and time is of the essence.

Our workplace retaliation lawyers have more than two decades of experience advocating for employees in Connecticut. We’ve helped shape key employment laws, including Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-51q, which protects employees’ rights to free speech in the workplace. If you believe you’ve been retaliated against, we can evaluate your case, help you gather evidence, and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings.

Why Choose Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC; Your Advocates in Workplace Retaliation

When facing workplace retaliation, you need knowledgeable and dedicated legal advocates who understand the intricacies of employment law. At Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau, LLC, our workplace retaliation attorneys are committed to standing up for employees who face unlawful treatment.

We know that every retaliation case is unique. That’s why we take the time to listen to your story, explain your rights clearly, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you achieve justice in a timely manner, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

How Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau Can Help You Fight Back

Facing workplace retaliation can be intimidating, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Our skillful and compassionate workplace retaliation lawyers are here to guide you through the process and fight for your rights every step of the way.

If you’ve experienced retaliation for reporting misconduct, filing a complaint, or exercising your legal rights, call 860-246-2466 or contact Madsen, Prestley & Parenteau today to schedule a consultation. With our extensive experience in employment law and commitment to employee advocacy, we’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you secure the justice you deserve.