I live in a medium sized town where I was employed by one of the largest employers in the state (and surrounding states). Three years of unblemished employment including promotion, then I needed a change and transferred to a different location (and took a step down). I immediately started noticing some procedures that seemed unusual to me and asked questions of my trusted friends from the previous locations. They didn’t understand either but I steered the course. Not long after, I was involved in a transaction that was a little atypical so immediately told my supervisor about it. A few weeks later, I was was involved in another transaction that seemed borderline illegal to me so, asked for a behind closed door meeting with the GM (long time friend I thought) and openly discussed my concerns. He dismissed them and later that day called me in to discuss the previous transaction. I was suspended and subsequently terminated. I filed for unemployment which was denied by the company due to misconduct. I appealed and a state administrative judge eventually deemed that I was eligible for due benefits.

I have since contacted a few attorneys in my area regarding an unlawful dismissal claim (this has caused my family some substantial financial distress) but as soon as I mention the employer, they say they are unable to represent me.

I am confident I have a claim here but I don’t want to hire a no win no fee ambulance chaser and the local specialists won’t touch me.

Would love any advice as to what my next steps should be.