Many whistle-blowers, even if they’re successful in exposing fraud, have their lives destroyed. They become obsessed, sometimes paranoid, sometimes with good reason. And it’s often a years-long fight. Many are retaliated against. I have clients who have lost their homes and friends, their marriages destroyed. One even killed himself. That’s why I always counsel new clients—even though they’re doing the right thing—that they need to seriously consider the costs. You have to be prepared for the worst.”
