How a Case Gets Approached
The forum comes first
Federal employment law is several systems side by side, each with its own rules and its own decision-makers.
The same facts might belong at the MSPB, the EEO process, the Office of Special Counsel, or OPM. Sometimes there is a choice between two, and that choice affects where the case can be heard later. Sorting out the right path is step one.
If you are not sure which system your case belongs in, that is normal. Most people are not.
Cases get built for whoever decides them
An MSPB judge weighs different things than an EEO investigator or an OPM examiner.
So filings go to the right office, with the right supporting documents, framed around what that specific decision maker will review.
Four things get weighed at once
- Position and pay
- The permanent record
- Benefits and retirement
- Whether there is a way to keep working
Most people come in worried about one of these. The other three still need protecting.
We look at the whole picture, not just the case
Your case does not sit on its own. It sits inside a federal career, with a pension, benefits and a retirement date attached to it.
So we talk through what a decision means for the rest of it, not only the legal side. Where it helps, we can point you to independent experts we trust, who are not connected to this firm, for a federal employee benefit estimate. That way you can see the real numbers before you pick a direction.
The aim is that you understand what each option costs you and what it gives you, before you commit to one.
WORTH KNOWING
Federal employment law is the entire practice, and has been since 2010. We also handle Social Security disability claims, and for those you do not need to be a federal employee.
No travel required. Houston, Pikesville and Atlanta offices, clients in every state, consultations by phone or video.
Free consultations for OPM disability retirement and Social Security disability.
What Pines Federal offers is a straight answer, careful preparation and accountability throughout.
Let's Talk It Through
No commitment required to ask a question. If we are not the right fit, we will say so. Call 832-462-7655 to talk with our team now.
DISCLAIMER
Attorney advertising. The information on this page is general and is not legal advice. Deadlines, procedures and outcomes depend on the facts of each case.
