Your Federal Employee Rights Amid Recent Executive Actions

Blog

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.

Need Legal Help? Contact Us. Call (202) 964-4878

How to Win an EEOC Complaint for Federal Employees

To win an EEOC complaint as a federal employee, it’s critical to understand the process from the start. Federal employees can file an EEOC complaint if they believe they’ve faced discrimination based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, or other protected categories.  Any federal employee can file, but success begins with meeting deadlines and building a strong, well-documented case starting with the EEO counselor within 45 days of the incident. Facing an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaint as a …

Read more

What is Schedule F and What You Need to Know as a Federal Employee

Your career in federal service has likely been built on the foundation of what is Schedule F for federal employees and civil service protections that distinguish government employment from the private sector. These protective measures—established job security, merit-based advancement, and protection from political pressure—may soon face major changes. With Donald Trump projected to return to the White House in January 2025 and having explicitly stated plans to reinstate Schedule F, understanding this classification has become necessary for safeguarding your federal career. What …

Read more

Wha is Reduction in Force in the Federal Government and What To Do

Before we dive into what you can do in the unlikely event of a Reduction in Force (RIF), let’s define it. When a federal agency chooses to abolish one or more employment positions, this is what is known as a Reduction In Force (RIF) in the federal government. Once an RIF has begun to take place, the agency in question is required to follow strict OPM Guidelines. A federal employee who is affected by a Reduction in Force will also have …

Read more

What Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement

Are you a federal employee wondering if your condition qualifies for Federal Disability Retirement? Reach out to our experienced Federal Disability Retirement lawyers at Justin Schnitzer. We can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate this complex process. Call us at 202-964-4878 for detailed legal assistance tailored to your specific situation. Federal disability retirement is a special dispensation for federal workers who become unable to work during their tenure. It is a form of early retirement based on …

Read more

Federal Employee Termination Laws: A Complete Legal Guide 2024

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 …

Read more

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 …

Read more

What is the Federal Retirement Age for Federal Employees?

Federal employees often look forward to enjoying the government’s generous retirement package. However, determining the exact retirement age for federal employees can be complex, as it depends on various factors such as the type of retirement system, years of service, and individual circumstances. This article will explore the intricacies of federal employee retirement, helping you understand when you might be eligible to retire and what factors to consider in your retirement planning. When Can Federal Employees Retire? The retirement age …

Read more

Federal Early Retirement: What You Need to Know

Federal early retirement allows federal employees to retire before the standard retirement age, typically between 50 and 55, depending on their service years and retirement system. Understanding the eligibility criteria and knowing the benefits will help employees make informed decisions about when and how to retire early, ensuring a secure financial future. Thinking about hanging up your federal employee hat earlier than planned? You’re not alone. The allure of trading in your government ID for a life of leisure (or perhaps …

Read more

The Proposed Removal Process for Federal Employees

Federal employees facing potential termination from their positions must navigate a complex process known as proposed removal from federal service. This procedure is designed to protect the rights of government workers while allowing agencies to address serious misconduct or performance issues. Understanding the steps involved and your rights as an employee is crucial if you find yourself in this situation. What is a proposed removal from federal service? A proposed removal is the formal process by which a federal agency …

Read more

What is a Hostile Work Environment for Federal Employees?

A hostile work environment refers to a workplace where harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior makes it difficult for an employee to perform their job. This includes unwanted conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or uncomfortable atmosphere. Federal employees, like their private sector counterparts, have the right to work in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and hostility. However, the unique nature of federal employment brings its own set of challenges and protections when it comes to addressing hostile work environments. …

Read more