Your Federal Employee Rights Amid Recent Executive Actions

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I'm Attorney Justin Schnitzer. Our commitment is to represent federal employees in cases of employment violations just as we would want to be represented, all with the aim of achieving decisive victories.

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Understanding Your MSPB Appeal Rights as a Federal Employee

Facing an adverse employment action as a federal employee can be both disorienting and distressing. Your career, reputation, and financial stability suddenly hang in the balance. In these critical moments, understanding your MSPB appeal rights is essential as it offers an important avenue to challenge unfair agency decisions and protect your position. What Are MSPB Appeal Rights? MSPB appeal rights are statutory protections granted to federal employees that allow them to challenge specific adverse employment actions before an independent quasi-judicial agency called the Merit …

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MSPB Settlement Amounts: What to Expect in Your Federal Case

Standing at the crossroads of an MSPB appeal, you’re faced with difficult choices that could substantially impact your career and financial future. As a federal employee challenging an adverse employment action, you might be wondering whether to pursue your case through a full hearing or consider settlement—and if settlement is your preferred path, what kind of compensation you might reasonably expect. Understanding typical settlement values, including MSPB settlement amounts, allows you to approach negotiations with realistic expectations and make informed …

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How to File an MSPB Appeal – Process, Procedure & Petition

Receiving notice of an adverse employment action can turn your world upside down. Perhaps you’ve received a termination letter, a lengthy suspension notice, or documentation of a demotion. If you’re considering an MSPB appeal, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the strict deadlines and due process involved in protecting your federal employee rights. What is an MSPB Appeal? An MSPB appeal is a formal request asking the Merit Systems Protection Board to review an adverse employment action taken against …

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What is the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)?

If you’re wondering what is the MSPB, then read on to learn how this critical safeguard preserves federal employment rights against adverse actions and protects your career from irreversible consequences. When you receive a notice of proposed removal or lengthy suspension from your federal job, understanding where to turn can mean the difference between continuing your career or losing it entirely. Unlike private sector employees, you have unique protections through specialized systems designed specifically for civil servants. The Merit Systems Protection Board stands as a critical safeguard in the federal employment landscape, offering …

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DOGE Layoffs: 5 Legal Options for Federal Employees Right Now

DOGE layoffs have created unprecedented challenges for thousands of federal employees across America. Since early 2025, the Department of Government Efficiency has terminated workers at dozens of federal agencies, often with minimal notice.  For affected federal employees, understanding your legal rights and options is essential. What Are the DOGE Layoffs? DOGE stands for the Department of Government Efficiency, created by President Trump shortly after taking office in January 2025. Elon Musk is leading its effort to reduce federal spending by eliminating …

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Reasonable Accommodation for Federal Employees (Guide)

Understanding Reasonable Accommodation As a federal employee in America, you have the right to reasonable accommodation for a disability. Your disability might affect your senses, your dexterity, your mobility, or might even be a mental health condition. No matter the details, if your disability can be overcome and job duties completed with the help of reasonable accommodation, then your agency is required to provide it (with very limited exceptions). However, not all supervisors and agency authorities are reasonable. If you have been …

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Federal Employee Termination Laws: A Complete Legal Guide 2025

Federal employee termination laws are in place to protect the rights of civil servants while also allowing the government to manage its workforce efficiently. As with any employer, the federal government can fire employees for subpar performance, company policy infractions, or disciplinary issues. However, special rules apply due to the unique nature of government work. Because federal employees are not private sector workers, they’re afforded protection against arbitrary or politically-motivated firings—their jobs allow them to carry out public business without …

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CSRS vs. FERS: Understanding Federal Retirement Systems

CSRS vs. FERS is a crucial topic for federal employees planning their financial futures. Federal employees have long enjoyed generous retirement benefits, a key attraction for government service. Two primary systems have shaped federal retirement: the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Understanding the differences between these systems is crucial for federal workers planning their financial futures. What are the main differences between CSRS and FERS? The main differences between CSRS and FERS lie …

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Understanding the OPM Disability Retirement Approval Rate

For federal employees facing medical conditions that prevent them from performing their job duties, OPM disability retirement approval rate can be a crucial lifeline. However, many applicants find themselves wondering about their chances of approval. This article delves into the OPM disability retirement approval rate, factors influencing decisions, and strategies to improve your chances of a successful application. What is the approval rate for OPM disability retirement? The approval rate for OPM disability retirement varies and is not publicly disclosed …

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Main Reasons Security Clearances Get Denied or Revoked

A security clearance in federal employment is a formal determination that an individual is eligible to access classified information or work in sensitive positions. The clearance is granted after a thorough background check that assesses the individual’s trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. Security clearances are essential for many federal jobs and contractors working with sensitive government information. However, obtaining and maintaining a security clearance is not guaranteed. Understanding the main reasons why clearances get denied or revoked …

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