Federal Employment Law

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 failing to report for scheduled work, leaving the workplace without permission, or not returning from approved leave as expected. AWOL is not a type of leave but rather an unauthorized absence, distinct from approved leaves such as annual leave, sick leave, or Leave Without Pay (LWOP). While these forms of …

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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 their professional standards of practice rather than general employment standards. Legal Framework and Authority The DAB process operates under Title 38 of the U.S. Code, establishing a separate set of rules for VA healthcare workers that differ from the …

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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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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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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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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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