---
title: What Is Workplace Retaliation? Understanding Employee Protections and Employer Risks
description: This e-book explores how retaliation is defined under federal law, the actions that qualify as retaliation, examples of recent cases, and what both employees and employers need to know to protect their rights and responsibilities.
---

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## What Is Workplace Retaliation? Understanding Employee Protections and Employer Risks

Learn how retaliation is defined under federal law, the actions that qualify as retaliation, examples of recent cases, and what both employees and employers need to know to protect their rights and responsibilities.

 

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## What's inside the e-Book

 

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### Defining retaliation in the workplace

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, retaliation occurs when an employer, manager, or supervisor punishes an employee for asserting their legal rights(DOL).

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### Legal protections against retaliation

The U.S. Department of Labor explains that retaliation is prohibited regardless of an employee’s immigration status, ensuring that all workers have access to protection.

 

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### Why retaliation matters

The consequences of workplace retaliation are significant. Financially, retaliation claims can result in settlements, legal fees, and damages. For smaller businesses, a single lawsuit could threaten their survival.