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From advocating for your right to fair pay, to protecting you from retaliation, we are devoted to representing workers. In addition, we can advise business owners and private individuals on a range of legal issues. We provide all the benefits of a large law firm with the lower prices of a small one. Our team always provides personalized attention at every step of your legal matter, no matter how miniscule the detail. With years in practice, we have earned a reputation for standing up for the rights of everyday men and women against powerful corporate interests. If you are interested in our help, reach out to us to schedule a consultation.
Hired them when our house burned down and Allstate didnt want to pay our a claim. This firm is very good at what they do. It took almost a year but in the end Allstate paid my claim in full. Thanks for all your hard. I cant thank you all enough. They also have the Sweetest secretary that is always so pleasant and professional.
NC
Nick Cunningham
Feb 19, 2020
5.0
Great attorneys and extremely professional firm. Hasan had my back and was quick to respond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Akeel & Valentine, PLC
What is the whistleblower law?
It refers to the laws enacted to protect whistleblowers, a term used to refer to individuals who report illegal and unethical actions of employers, law violations or a workplace with unsafe conditions. The laws aim to protect whistleblowers from any type of threat or retaliation by the employer and to encourage individuals to report any suspicious action or wrongdoings.
How do the whistleblower laws protect the whistleblower?
Whistleblower laws prevent any form of retaliation or discrimination in the workplace against whistleblowers. To qualify for protection under the whistleblowers’ act, an individual must believe in good faith that an employer is violating the law or is carrying out unlawful actions.
What are some kinds of whistleblower scenarios?
Individuals may report actions observed involving discrimination, noncompliance with wage and hour laws, theft laws or regulations regarding health, safety at work or failure to comply with workers’ compensation laws. An employee may also report violations of environmental laws.
Are whistleblower protection laws federal or state laws?
Whistleblower laws are in place at the federal and state level. Examples of federal protection for whistleblowers are the Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) or those related to health and safety hazards like the Solid Waste Disposal Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. In addition, scopes of protection may differ according to each state’s law. For example, the Whistleblower’s Protection Act in Michigan protects private and public workers, while Illinois law only protects local and state employees.
What should you do if you observe illegal behavior in your job?
You are encouraged to report any illegal behavior observed. However, it is also crucial to have the advice of an experienced attorney to learn how you can protect yourself should you decide to report the wrongdoing.
What does qui tam mean?
Qui tam refers to any legal action brought by a private citizen, also called a relator, on behalf of the government. The legal action consists of filing a lawsuit where the plaintiff “per se” is the government, not the relator, based on information or evidence that proves the private individual’s employers or contractors are defrauding the federal government.
What is the False Claims Act?
Also known as Lincoln law, it is the federal statute that enables private individuals not affiliated with the government to file lawsuits against businesses or individuals (qui tam lawsuits) who have submitted false claims to the government. A false claim may include fraudulent billing involving undelivered products, inexistent services, falsification of reports regarding the quality of a product and others.
Are there rewards for qui tam cases?
Yes. If the relator’s lawsuit is successful and the government decides to pursue the legal action imposed, they may be entitled to recover from 15% to 30% of the total amount recovered. However, if a whistleblower was involved in the illegal acts committed against the government, then the award may be reduced.
Are there damages in qui tam cases?
Yes, and they can be substantial. According to the False Claims Act, a guilty defendant should pay “treble damages,” which means three times the damages incurred. If the defendant cooperated with the investigation, the amount might reduce to twice the original damage.
Are qui tam cases confidential?
All qui tam actions are confidential or “under seal” for at least 60 days upon the filing of a suit. During this period, the government may investigate the charges and allegations of the lawsuit to determine whether to pursue or decline the action.
Does the government prosecute qui tam cases?
The government may decide to prosecute qui tam cases after the 60 days granted for investigation of allegations. In some cases, the government may decline to prosecute the case. Under such a scenario, the relator may decide to proceed with the lawsuit, and the government may later choose to take part in the process.
What types of legal services does Akeel & Valentine, PLC provide?
Akeel & Valentine, PLC provides legal services including employment law, trusts & estates, civil rights, business law, real estate, wrongful death, trusts & wills, and personal injury.
Where is Akeel & Valentine, PLC located?
Akeel & Valentine, PLC is located at 888 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 350, Troy, MI 48084, United States.
What are the business hours of Akeel & Valentine, PLC?
The business hours are Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The firm is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
How can I contact Akeel & Valentine, PLC?
You can contact them by phone at +1 248-918-4542 or toll-free at +1 888-832-1706. You can also email shereef@akeelvalentine.com.
Does Akeel & Valentine, PLC have an accessible entrance?
Yes, Akeel & Valentine, PLC has a wheelchair accessible entrance.
Which areas does Akeel & Valentine, PLC serve?
They serve Ohio, Michigan, and various locations in Michigan such as Detroit, Orion Township, Shelby Township, Auburn Hills, Four Towns, Oakland Charter Township, and Washington Township.
Is Akeel & Valentine, PLC active on social media?
Yes, they have a Facebook page at facebook.com/akeelvalentine/, an Instagram handle @akeelvalentine, and a Twitter handle @AkeelValentine.
What nearby mental health services are available close to Akeel & Valentine, PLC?
Nearby mental health services include Flexible Mind Therapy LCSW PC, Collaborative EMDR Therapy & Trauma Therapists, and Jillian Bashi, a life coach, providing counseling and mental health support.
Are there any restaurants near Akeel & Valentine, PLC for dining before or after your visit?
Yes, nearby dining options include The Melting Pot (a fondue and American restaurant) and Morton's The Steakhouse, both located conveniently close to the firm.
What nearby real estate services are available near Akeel & Valentine, PLC?
Nearby real estate services include Gabbi Dubuque - The Berney Group, Thrive Realty Company, Mike Williams Real Estate, Motus Real Estate, and Jen Stillwagon Realtor, providing various real estate agent and service offerings.