Companies are expected to operate in a fair and ethical manner that is in line with both federal and state laws, and this includes the treatment of employees. When a company violates the law or otherwise conducts business in an unethical manner, an employee complaint may result in an investigation into the matter. Ethics investigations by government agencies in Nevada can result in civil penalties and liability to those harmed by the unethical actions. These investigations can be complex and involve many different types of evidence against a company and in the company’s defense.
Employees who bring ethical complaints and may be due financial compensation for harm they suffered should always be represented by a skilled employment lawyer throughout the process to ensure their rights are fully protected.
The legal team at HKM Employment Attorneys in Las Vegas regularly assists clients involved in ethics investigations. We will protect your interest and guide you through every step of the process.
Common Ethics Investigations in Nevada
There are many things that can lead to ethics investigations against a company. One of the main causes is a reported violation of Nevada’s anti-discrimination and anti-harassment law. This law prohibits discrimination in employment decisions, unfair treatment, or allowing a hostile work environment based on the following factors:
- Race;
- Color;
- National origin;
- Sex;
- Pregnancy;
- Religion;
- Age (for individuals over 40);
- Disability;
- Gender identity or expression;
- Sexual orientation.
In addition to initial acts of discrimination or harassment, it is also unethical for an employer to retaliate against anyone who complains of discrimination or cooperates with an investigation into the matter.
While the above are common bases for ethics investigations, employers can also be accused of additional unethical behaviors, which can include the following, among others:
- Requests that an employee participate in illegal activities;
- Retaliation against an employee for opposing illegal or unethical practices;
- Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting illegal activities;
- Illegally withholding wages or benefits in violations of the law.
In some cases, unethical practices may be due to a company’s misunderstanding of the law or an unintentional mistake. In many cases, these issues can be resolved without significant liability with the help of an experienced attorney. On the other hand, some ethics violations are intentional and cause serious harm to employees. In these cases, an employee involved in the investigation should have the assistance of a committed employment lawyer who knows how to protect their rights.
Consult With a Las Vegas Ethics Investigation Lawyer As Soon As Possible
Ethics investigations should be properly represented by a Las Vegas employment law firm. At HKM Employment Attorneys, we have represented many clients throughout ethics investigations, so please contact our office to discuss your situation today.
