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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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Lack of Candor Definition, Examples, and Federal Employee Rights

Read Time: 6 min read

Federal employees have an important role to play in the operation of our government. Thanks to their dedication, all the government services we take for granted keep running effectively. As such, public officials deserve protection from baseless or false accusations. To address misconduct by civil servants, government agencies weigh various disciplinary measures. They may contend that the targeted employee is guilty of falsification or turn to a vague charge: that the employee’s actions exhibited a “lack of candor.” Such an allegation …

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What are the Douglas Factors?

Read Time: 6 min read

Federal employment law is a distinct area requiring a nuanced understanding of regulations and procedures. As a government worker, certain rights are afforded you when your agency proposes disciplinary action against you. Among the elements you must understand are the Douglas Factors, a set of criteria your agency must follow before taking adverse action against you. Ultimately, you want to demonstrate that you don’t deserve punishment or that the proposed penalty is excessive by responding and contesting the proposed discipline. …

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How to Handle a Letter of Reprimand [Federal Employees]

Read Time: 6 min read

As one of the largest employers in the country, the United States government has certain policies and procedures in effect to protect their employees that differ from the private sector. While federal employees can be reprimanded or fired, there are more protections in place to protect federal employees than their private sector counterparts have, and specific steps must be taken before a government employee can be demoted, dismissed, or fired.  As a federal employee, it is then important that you …

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Conduct Unbecoming Charges for Federal Employees

Read Time: 6 min read

Federal employees uphold a high standard of professional behavior. The rules are clear cut and reputation is important. Therefore, a false accusation of conduct unbecoming a federal employee can be devastating. This non-specific charge can place a black mark on your spotless career, which is why it is important to immediately assess the situation and prepare a legal defense. Conduct Unbecoming Charges for Federal Employees Federal agencies must charge an employee with misconduct in order to take adverse action. There …

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How to Win an EEOC Complaint for Federal Employees

Read Time: 5 min read

Facing an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaint as a federal employee can be a daunting and stressful experience. The process is complex, and the stakes are high. However, understanding how to win an EEOC complaint, including the steps involved and your rights as a federal worker, can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. In this article, we will guide you through the EEOC complaint process, outline your rights and protections, and provide crucial tips on how to …

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Handling a Federal Employee Complaint Against a Supervisor for Misconduct

Read Time: 7 min read

What is Considered Misconduct by a Federal Supervisor? Federal supervisors may commit misconduct through various infractions such as attendance problems, insubordination, harassment, discrimination, misuse of government property, and falsification of records.The nature of the misconduct and its severity determine the level of disciplinary action that may be taken.   Need Legal Help? Contact Us. • Call (202) 964-4878 Address Federal Supervisor Misconduct with Confidence Few things are more upsetting in the business world than supervisor misconduct. This is especially true …

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

Read Time: 6 min read

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 …

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How to Win an MSPB Appeal: Key Steps and Timeline

Read Time: 6 min read

How to Win Your MSPB Appeal? While there is never a guarantee for a specific outcome, you can improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome by saving evidence, filing your appeal as soon as possible, and contacting a MSPB attorney. Need Legal Help? Contact Us. • Call (202) 964-4878 The last thing you wish as a federal employee is to face an unfair employment action. But things happen even to the best of employees, spiraling them into disputes with …

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How Difficult is it to Get Federal Disability Retirement?

Read Time: 7 min read

Managing the complexities of federal disability retirement can be daunting for federal employees, as the process involves navigating a maze of legal and bureaucratic requirements. This article aims to demystify how to apply for federal disability retirement, offering clarity and guidance at every step. From understanding eligibility criteria to preparing a convincing application, our goal is to simplify and explain the intricacies involved. We strive to provide comprehensive insights and practical advice to help federal employees successfully navigate the path …

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Reasonable Accommodation for Federal Employees

Read Time: 7 min read

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 denied reasonable accommodation …

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