Reasons to blow the whistle - Jeff Newman Law

Becoming a whistleblower may seem intimidating. It can take years of involvement, patience, and perseverance. Many whistleblowers fear criticism and retaliation. So, what factors motivate someone to blow the whistle on misconduct?  In order to spark change in the midst of a corrupt system, it requires a unique set of traits to motivate someone to step forward and become a whistleblower.

1. Achieving Justice

For many whistleblowers, one of the main motivating factors is an innate desire to see justice done. These whistleblowers want to preserve their own integrity and to improve the integrity of society – when they see fraud, they are quick to seek out a way to right the wrong.

2. Providing Protection for Themselves and Others

Many whistleblower cases involve fraud that could cause physical or financial harm to others. Furthermore, for some whistleblowers, bringing fraud to light may be the best way to secure protection from potential illegal retaliation.  

3. The Desire to Instigate Positive Change

Many whistleblowers truly respect their colleagues and are proud of their workplace. These whistleblowers may be motivated by a desire to root out bad actors and improve the future of their organization.

4. The Incentive of a Reward

Because the government relies heavily on whistleblowers to expose fraud and other misconduct, the law provides for substantial monetary rewards to whistleblowers whose claims lead to recoveries by the government.