Michigan Supreme Court Issues Landmark Ruling in Janetsky v. Saginaw County
The Michigan Supreme Court recently issued a major opinion in the case of Janetsky v. Saginaw County, marking a significant victory for employees and advocates of justice. Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers represents the plaintiff, Jennifer Janetsky, in this case.
The Court’s decision rejects arguments that would have made it harder for employees, especially those working for local governments, to bring legal claims under Michigan’s Whistleblowers' Protection Act. The Court’s ruling makes it clear that any employee, no matter their job, can file a claim if they have a legitimate reason to do so. The Court also broadened protections for workers by recognizing that those who try to prevent or fix a legal violation can pursue a claim for retaliation in violation of Michigan public policy if they are punished for doing so.
The Court also made crucial rulings on false imprisonment claims, expanding legal protections for employees by acknowledging that even brief unlawful detentions can be deeply traumatic.
Attorneys Cary McGehee, Beth Rivers, and Channing Robinson-Holmes expressed gratitude for the Court’s clarity in protecting workers' rights, noting, “We are deeply grateful to represent Jennifer Janetsky who has been a tireless advocate for justice over the past decade, not just for herself, but for everyone her case impacts.”
Read more in MLive: https://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw-bay-city/2025/07/saginaw-county-may-be-liable-in-whistleblower-case-michigan-supreme-court-rules.html