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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How Does the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) Work?

Read Time: 5 min read

What Exactly Is the Federal Employee Retirement System? FERS provides financial security to federal employees after they’ve completed their government service. Unlike private-sector retirement options that often rely heavily on employee contributions and market performance, FERS takes a more balanced approach with guaranteed benefits alongside investment opportunities. The system covers employees across all three branches of the federal government. It marked a major shift in federal retirement philosophy when it was introduced, moving from a single pension system to a multi-faceted approach that shares responsibility between the …

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

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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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What Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement

Read Time: 7 min read

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 …

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Federal Early Retirement: What You Need to Know

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Federal early retirement is a program that allows eligible federal employees to retire before reaching the standard retirement age and years of service requirements. It’s like getting a head start on your golden years, but with some important caveats to consider. Eligibility requirements for federal early retirement Not everyone can simply decide to call it quits early. The federal government has set specific criteria that you must meet to be eligible for early retirement: These requirements might seem straightforward, but …

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MSPB Settlement Amounts: What to Expect in Your Federal Case

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MSPB settlement amounts can vary significantly, typically ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $100,000. The final amount depends on multiple factors, including the strength of the legal claims, the amount of back pay involved, and the specifics of each case. While no official database tracks average settlements, cases with strong evidence of agency wrongdoing or extensive back pay exposure may result in higher figures, while weaker claims may settle for much less. Understanding the MSPB Appeal Process The …

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How to Calculate FERS Retirement

Read Time: 6 min read

How do you calculate your FERS retirement benefits? To calculate your FERS retirement, multiply your high-3 average salary by your total years of creditable service and the appropriate pension multiplier—typically 1% if you retire before age 62 or have under 20 years of service, or 1.1% if you retire at 62 or older with 20+ years. This forms your basic annuity. Additional factors like unused sick leave, military service credit, early retirement reductions, and your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) balance …

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DOGE Layoffs: 5 Legal Options for Federal Employees Right Now

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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)

Read Time: 8 min read

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

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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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Understanding the OPM Disability Retirement Approval Rate

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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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