Federal Employment Law in Washington, D.C.

Equal Employment Opportunity Discrimination Cases (Private Sector & Federal Employment)

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. It is also illegal to discriminate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.

We assist Federal and Private Sector employees through the EEO Charge, Federal EEO Informal Complaint, Federal EEO Formal Complaint, and EEOC (Federal & Private Sector) Complaint/Hearing process.

Federal Disciplinary Cases  

If you are a Federal employee and have received a Notice of Proposed Suspension, Notice of Proposed Removal, Decision on Proposed Suspension, or a Decision on Proposed Removal, our federal employment attorneys can assist you in resolving that matter with the Agency.

Performance Cases 

If you are a Federal employee or a Private Sector employee (under an employment contract), and have been placed on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), have been placed on a Notice of Proposed Removal, or a Suspension due to a PIP, federal employment lawyers can assist you with responding to that matter.

• Merit System Protection Board Appeals
• Office of Special Counsel Whistleblower Complaints
• Office of Federal Operations Appeals
• Security Clearance Matters

How Our Federal Employment Team Can Help You

Here’s how we can help:

• Personalized Legal Advice: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand each client’s specific situation. We offer tailored legal advice that aligns with our client’s goals and circumstances.
• Thorough Case Evaluation: We evaluate each case in detail to determine the best course of action. We gather and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the legal merits to build a strong case.
• Aggressive Representation: We are relentless when it comes to protecting our clients’ rights. Whether negotiating settlements or representing clients in court, we are dedicated to achieving favorable outcomes.
• Clear Communication: Legal processes can be confusing and overwhelming. We prioritize clear and open communication with our clients, keeping them informed at every step of their case and addressing any questions or concerns promptly.
• Experienced Negotiators: Many employment disputes can be resolved through negotiation. We are skilled negotiators who strive to reach amicable settlements that benefit our clients without prolonged litigation.
• Litigation Expertise: We are prepared to advocate fiercely for our clients if a case proceeds to court. We are dedicated to achieving justice for those we represent.
• Resourceful and Knowledgeable: We stay abreast of the latest developments in federal employment law to provide informed and effective legal strategies. We utilize various resources and legal tools to support our clients’ cases.

Need help with a federal employment issue? Contact Pitre & Associates today for expert legal guidance and support. Call us at tel:(202) 759-6544!

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Violations

• Explain how the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protects employees who need to take leave for medical reasons or to care for a family member. Discuss how an attorney can help resolve violations related to unpaid leave, job reinstatement, and retaliation for taking FMLA leave.

Wage and Hour Disputes

• Highlight the importance of ensuring fair compensation for employees. Discuss common wage and hour violations such as unpaid overtime, failure to pay minimum wage, and misclassification of employees as exempt. A work attorney can help recover unpaid wages and damages for violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Retaliation and Whistleblower Protection

• Discuss how employees are protected from retaliation for reporting illegal activities or unethical practices within their workplace, especially under laws like the Whistleblower Protection Act. Employees who face adverse actions due to reporting issues can seek legal help to protect their rights.

Disability Accommodations

• Cover issues related to workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities, both under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant state or federal laws. Attorneys can assist in cases where accommodations are denied or when employees are retaliated against for requesting them.

Employment Contracts and Non-Compete Clauses

• Discuss employment contract disputes, including issues with non-compete clauses and non-disclosure agreements. Legal assistance can be essential in negotiating these terms or defending against unfair clauses that may harm an employee's career.

Wrongful Termination Cases

• Define wrongful termination, such as being fired for reasons that violate an employee's legal rights, including discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract. Explain how an attorney can help determine if an employee has a case for wrongful termination and what steps to take.

Disability Discrimination in the Workplace

• Address issues related to workplace discrimination based on an employee's disability status. Discuss how employees with disabilities may face bias, mistreatment, or failure to receive reasonable accommodations and how a lawyer can help fight these injustices.

FAQ - Federal Employment Law

1. What should I do if I’ve been discriminated against at work?
If you believe you’ve been a victim of discrimination, it’s crucial to document any incidents and report them to your employer or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). You should also contact an experienced federal employment lawyer to guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

2. How do I appeal a federal disciplinary decision?
If you've received a Notice of Proposed Suspension or Removal from your federal employer, it's important to act quickly. Our team can help you navigate the appeals process, which may involve submitting a written response, gathering evidence, and potentially filing an appeal with the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).

3. What is the process for filing a federal EEO complaint?
Filing a federal EEO complaint involves a series of steps, including an informal resolution process and formal filing with the EEOC. Our lawyers can help guide you through each stage, ensuring your complaint is handled efficiently and effectively.

4. Can I be fired for filing a whistleblower complaint?
It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for reporting misconduct or unsafe conditions. If you’ve faced retaliation after blowing the whistle, an employment attorney can help you protect your rights and pursue a claim.

5. How can I challenge a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)?
If you're placed on a Performance Improvement Plan, it’s important to respond appropriately. A lawyer can help you evaluate whether the PIP was issued unfairly, help with documentation, and guide you through any potential appeal processes to protect your job.

6. What are my rights as a federal employee if I lose my security clearance?
Losing security clearance can have serious implications for federal employees. Our team can assist in understanding the reasons behind the loss and help you appeal the decision to restore your clearance or protect your employment rights.

7. How long do I have to file an EEO discrimination complaint?
There are strict timelines for filing discrimination complaints, which can vary depending on the agency and specific circumstances. Typically, you have 45 days from the date of the alleged discrimination to initiate the process. It’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure timely filing.

Contact Us Today 

At Pitre & Associates, our team protects your rights and ensures you receive fair treatment under the law. Don’t navigate these complex matters alone—contact us for expert legal guidance and representation. Let us provide the support and advocacy you need to address your federal employment law concerns effectively. Your rights and well-being are our top priority, and we are ready to fight for you.

Facing discrimination or disciplinary action at work? Let our experienced team fight for your rights. Reach out now at tel:(202) 759-6544 for a consultation!