About
About McCarthy Whistleblower and Retaliation Law
I represent employees throughout California in high-value employment cases involving retaliation, whistleblower activity, disability discrimination, and wrongful termination.
Many of the matters I handle arise after an employee reports misconduct, requests accommodation, or challenges unlawful conduct and is then terminated, demoted, or pushed out. These cases often turn on timing, documentation, and whether an employer’s stated reasons hold up under scrutiny.
A Selective, Trial-Focused Practice
My practice is intentionally small and highly selective.
I typically handle only a limited number of active cases at a time. That allows me to focus closely on each matter, develop the facts carefully, and prepare every case with the expectation that it may ultimately need to be presented to a jury.
Not every case is accepted. The focus is on matters involving clear retaliation, termination, and meaningful career or financial impact. Routine workplace disputes or situations with limited damages are generally not a fit.
How Cases Are Evaluated
The strongest cases usually involve:
Reporting misconduct, safety concerns, or unlawful practices
Complaints about discrimination or harassment
Requests for disability accommodation or protected leave
Adverse action taken soon after protected activity
In these situations, the key question is not just what happened, but what can be proven. Emails, timing, internal complaints, and inconsistencies in the employer’s explanation often determine whether a case succeeds.
From the outset, each matter is evaluated with an emphasis on evidence and how the story will be told if the case proceeds.
Working with Other Counsel
In complex matters, I occasionally work alongside other experienced employment trial lawyers, including attorneys from outside California, when doing so enhances the strength of the case.
That approach allows cases to be staffed and developed appropriately while maintaining a focused, trial-oriented strategy.
Clients and Cases
Clients are located throughout California and often work for larger organizations in healthcare, technology, government, defense, and other regulated industries.
Many are professionals or skilled employees whose careers were significantly affected after they spoke up or exercised their rights. The cases that move forward typically involve substantial employers and measurable damages.
Background
My work is focused on employment litigation, with an emphasis on retaliation and wrongful termination. Each case is approached with the same goal: develop a clear, fact-driven record that can withstand scrutiny and, if necessary, be presented effectively in court.
Personal
After years of living in San Diego, my wife and I moved back to the Central Coast to raise our family. I am based on California’s Central Coast and work with clients across the state. Much of the practice is handled remotely, allowing for efficient communication and focused case development.
Case Evaluation
If you believe you were retaliated against, wrongfully terminated, or pushed out after reporting misconduct or asserting your rights, you can begin a case evaluation below.
Each matter is reviewed carefully to determine whether it is a strong fit.