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Norfolk Federal Employment Attorneys Handling Federal Employee Rights Cases in Virginia

At Pierce / Jewett, we dedicate a significant portion of our practice to handling issues involving federal employees. If you are a federal worker or a representative of an organization in need of legal guidance, we can help. Our Norfolk federal employment attorneys have the skills and experience to handle a wide range of legal matters. 

We are committed to providing comprehensive, effective legal representation to federal workers and organizations in Norfolk, Richmond, Virginia Beach, and the surrounding communities in Central Virginia and Eastern Virginia. For a strictly confidential initial consultation with an experienced federal employment lawyer, please reach out to us today and we’ll be happy to help you. 

Federal Employee Rights in Virginia

FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HAVE ADDITIONAL PROTECTIONS AGAINST TERMINATION

Federal employees are provided legal protections not available to employees in the private sector. Most federal employees cannot be terminated without notice or without cause. Therefore, the agency must build a case against an employee before attempting to remove the employee from his or her position. It is therefore critical to obtain counsel if you suspect that the wheels have been placed in motion to have you removed.

The rules for federal workers and agencies have important implications for both sides. On the one hand, federal agencies must treat employees in a fair manner and must carefully document employee performance, employee conduct, and personnel actions. If federal agencies fail to take the proper measures, they could potentially face legal action after terminating an employee. 

On the other hand, workers should be aware of the fact that many federal agencies begin building a case for removal many months before actually being terminated. If an employee was suddenly subject to unfair, negative performance reviews or if they are experiencing any other problems with supervisors or co-workers, then they should be prepared to call a top-rated Virginia federal worker rights attorney. As a general rule, the best way to handle these cases is with a proactive approach. 

Protects for Engaging in Whistleblower Activity 

The Whistleblower Protection Act protects federal employees against reprisal for making protected disclosures and assisting others in the course of a complaint or grievance right. Federal employees subjected to retaliation may file a claim with the Office of Special Counsel or, in some circumstances, may pursue a claim through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). An employee may also have the option of filing a claim with an EEO counselor if the agency’s conduct is based on discrimination. We represent clients in federal employee whistleblower claims throughout Virginia. 

Representing Federal Employees in MSPB Proceedings 

Federal employees may challenge certain disciplinary actions and proposed removals through an appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board. MSPB proceedings move at a rapid pace and often involve complex issues. However, the appeals process is typically the employee’s only opportunity to have the government’s proposed action overturned. We represent clients in MSPB proceedings in Richmond, Norfolk, and throughout the region. 

Virginia Federal Sector EEO Lawyer

Federal law makes it illegal to discriminate or discharge employees due to many factors, including Race, Color, Sex, Religion, Disability, National Origin, and Age. Federal employees are also protected from retaliation for opposing discrimination or for participating in an EEO proceeding. Federal guidelines set forth a comprehensive process for federal employees who wish to pursue a claim.

With EEO claims, the grievance process can be long and complicated — making it especially important to have a competent lawyer by your side. At the labor and employment division of Pierce / Jewett, our federal employee rights attorneys know what it takes to represent the full range of clients. 

If you have a grievance, you would like to file as a federal employee or if your organization is dealing with any matter related to an EEO complaint and federal worker rights, our skilled Virginia employment lawyer will protect your rights.

How A Norfolk Federal Employment Attorney At Pierce/Jewett Can Help 

Our federal employee rights attorneys are selective and narrow in the cases that we pursue. When we take on a client, we make sure that their case receives the full diligence and attention that it rightfully deserves. We know that our job is to protect your interests — and we are committed to getting results. Among other things, our Virginia federal employment law attorneys are prepared to:

  • Conduct a confidential assessment of your case;
  • Take the time to listen to your story and understand your goals;
  • Comprehensively investigate the issue; 
  • Build a strong and compelling legal case; and
  • If advisable, negotiate a favorable settlement. 

You deserve fully personalized legal representation. With employment law issues, one-size-fits-all solutions simply do not work very well. We will devise a legal strategy that is effective for your case and your objectives. Our Virginia federal employee rights lawyers pride ourselves on providing solutions-oriented guidance. We will take the approach that makes the most sense for your specific situation.  

Contact the Labor and Employment Division of Pierce/Jewett Today

At Pierce / Jewett, our Norfolk federal employment attorneys in Virginia have extensive experience handling the full range of claims involving federal employees. We fight tirelessly to protect the rights and interests of our clients. To set up a fully private review of your case, please call us today at 804-502-2320 or complete our online contact form. With law offices in Norfolk and Richmond, we serve communities throughout Central Virginia and the Hampton Roads region.