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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Absence Without Leave (AWOL)

Absence Without Leave, commonly known as AWOL, is a serious charge that can be levied against federal employees who are not present at their workplace without proper authorization. Understanding the intricacies of AWOL meaning is crucial for both federal employees and supervisors to maintain a productive and compliant work environment. What does AWOL mean in federal employment? AWOL refers to an unauthorized absence from work or duty without obtaining prior approval from the appropriate chain of command. This can include …

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How Difficult is it to Get Federal Disability Retirement?

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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How to Calculate FERS Retirement

Navigating the maze of federal retirement benefits can feel like deciphering an ancient code. But fear not, fellow civil servants! Whether you’re a seasoned federal employee or just starting your government career, understanding how to calculate FERS retirement is crucial for mapping out your financial future. Let’s demystify this process together and unlock the secrets to a well-planned retirement. What factors determine FERS retirement benefits? The holy trinity of FERS retirement benefits consists of your length of creditable service, high-3 …

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Understanding the Federal Employee Probationary Period

Starting a career in the federal government is an exciting journey, but it comes with a unique twist – the federal employee probationary period. This crucial first year can make or break your future in public service. Whether you’re a fresh-faced recruit or a seasoned professional transitioning to government work, understanding the ins and outs of this trial period is essential for your success. What is the federal employee probationary period? The federal employee probationary period is generally a one-year …

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The Disciplinary Appeals Board (DAB) Process for VA Employees

Understanding the VA disciplinary appeals board process is crucial to protecting your career and livelihood as a VA healthcare professional. When you receive a notice of proposed disciplinary action, every moment counts, and knowing your rights can make all the difference. What is the VA Disciplinary Appeals Board? The Disciplinary Appeals Board is a specialized three-person panel that reviews disciplinary actions against certain VA healthcare professionals. It specifically addresses allegations related to professional competence or patient care, evaluating whether employees demonstrated misconduct or incompetence according to …

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What are Federal Employees’ Union Rights?

When your agency announces a policy change or you’re called into what feels like a disciplinary meeting, understanding your union rights becomes suddenly vital. Understanding federal employee union rights is essential for navigating today’s dynamic federal workplace environment. Federal employee unions represent approximately 1.2 million government workers across various agencies, serving as a key shield in workplace disputes and negotiations. For federal employees, these union protections can substantially impact job security, working conditions, and representation during disciplinary actions. However, with each change …

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Collective Bargaining Agreements for Federal Employees

As a federal employee, your work life is governed by a carefully negotiated set of rules—your collective bargaining agreement. This article is designed for collective bargaining federal employees and provides clear insights into how your rights are protected and what limitations exist as you navigate your government career. What Are Collective Bargaining Rights for Federal Employees? As a federal employee, you have the statutory right to organize, form unions, and negotiate collective bargaining agreements that govern working conditions, though with significant restrictions …

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Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for Federal Employees

Receiving notification of a Performance Improvement Plan can feel like your federal career is suddenly at risk. That moment when your supervisor hands you a PIP document often triggers immediate anxiety about your future. This article focuses on understanding the performance improvement plan federal government process—what it entails, your rights throughout the process, and effective response strategies to protect your career. What is a performance improvement plan federal government? A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) in the federal government is a formal document and process designed to help …

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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 …

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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 …

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