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 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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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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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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Are Federal Employees At-Will Employees?

Are federal employees at will? No—most federal employees are not considered at-will. They are protected by civil service laws, which require just cause for termination and provide due process rights, including appeal options. Exceptions exist for certain political appointees and policy-making roles, which may be designated as at-will. Recent proposals have also aimed to expand at-will classifications, but the majority of federal employees remain protected under existing personnel rules. Think of federal employment as a different ballgame altogether. While private …

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

What is Schedule F for federal employees? Schedule F is a federal employment category created by a 2020 executive order to reclassify certain policy-influencing civil service positions as “Schedule Policy/Career.” This change aimed to strip traditional civil service protections from these roles, making it easier to hire and fire individuals in politically sensitive positions. While it maintains merit-based hiring standards, it significantly reduces job security for affected employees by allowing agencies greater discretion in dismissals. The move could affect tens …

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What Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement

What conditions qualify for federal disability retirement under FERS? There is no fixed list of qualifying conditions—instead, eligibility depends on whether a medical condition, physical or mental, prevents you from performing the essential duties of your federal job. Common qualifying conditions include musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular issues, neurological disorders, respiratory conditions, and a wide range of mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Are you a federal employee wondering if your condition qualifies for Federal Disability Retirement? Reach out …

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What is Wrongful Termination in the Federal Workplace?

What is considered wrongful termination for a federal employee? Wrongful termination occurs when a federal employee is fired in violation of federal law, civil service regulations, or due process protections. Common grounds include discrimination, retaliation, or failure to follow proper termination procedures. Federal employees can challenge wrongful terminations through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) or by filing an EEOC complaint, depending on the nature of the claim. As a federal employee, you have strong job protections. But even with …

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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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