Whistleblowing regulations present companies with new challenges – while offering whistleblowers legal protection when they report misconduct. PAULITSCH LAW in Vienna provides competent and practical advice to companies on all matters relating to whistleblowing, the Whistleblower Protection Act (HSchG), whistleblowing systems and legally compliant reporting structures.
We also advise and represent individuals who wish to make a report or who face retaliation as a result of having provided information.
Since the implementation of the EU Whistleblower Directive through the Austrian Whistleblower Protection Act, specific rules apply to the protection of whistleblowers in Austria. Anyone who reports violations of certain laws or internal policies – whether in the areas of corruption, money laundering, data protection, competition law or public procurement – is legally protected against retaliation.
Companies with more than 50 employees are required to establish internal whistleblowing systems that enable confidential reporting.
Whistleblowers generally report serious irregularities or unlawful conduct within a company or organisation. These reports often relate to corruption, bribery or accepting bribes, but also to workplace discrimination and sexual harassment. In addition, statutory violations, criminal offences, human rights violations as well as mismanagement or structural deficiencies are among the typical subjects of whistleblower reports. Insider trading and the improper handling of sensitive data – such as breaches of data protection laws – also frequently fall within the scope of such reports.
Our attorneys at law are among Austria’s recognised experts in the field of whistleblowing and whistleblower protection. We actively engage with current developments and deliver specialist lectures on this subject. As an experienced law firm for economic and criminal law, we support companies in the legally compliant implementation of the requirements under the Austrian Whistleblower Protection Act:
An effective whistleblowing system not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also protects companies from significant reputational and liability risks. At the same time, legal protection for whistleblowers is essential: misconduct can only be detected at an early stage when whistleblowers can rely on confidentiality and legal backing will.
PAULITSCH LAW specialises in criminal law, White Collar Crime and Criminal Compliance. We understand both the practical challenges of implementing whistleblowing systems and the legal pitfalls of the Austria’s Whistleblower Protection Act.
Whether you are a company seeking to strengthen your compliance structures or a whistleblower in need of legal support – we are here to assist you from our offices in Vienna.
Our team is large enough to ensure rapid response and constant availability, while being well organised to guarantee absolute discretion and confidentiality in high-stakes Whit Collar Crime cases.
Are you looking for a specialised law firm in Vienna with strong legal and strategic expertise in whistleblowing?
Whether you are a company seeking to establish a whistleblowing system or a whistleblower in need of legal protection – we are here for you.
