The last thing you want to deal with in your career is an accusation of federal employee misconduct. It represents a black mark on your record that can upset your plans for a promotion or transfer. At the very worst, it can single-handedly destroy your federal career and leave you without a job. For those reasons, you must know...
Continue ReadingIn an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of discussions, the accessibility of the workspace remains a critical aspect that demands our attention. Accessibility goes beyond the physical presence of ramps and elevators; it delves into effective communication for all individuals, including those with visual impairments. As the world evolves, businesses are beginning to realize...
Continue ReadingSexual harassment is an unfortunate reality in working people’s lives worldwide. Under federal law, sexual harassment is illegal in many circumstances. There are two types of sexual harassment claims: hostile work environment and quid pro quo sexual harassment. Workplace sexual harassment is a form of sex-based discrimination. At Pines Federal, we focus on defending federal employees suing the government...
Continue ReadingChief among federal employees’ worst-case scenarios is the prospect of removal from the federal service. While it’s undoubtedly scary to face removal, there are many ways to uphold your rights and save your federal career. In this article, we’ll cover the applicable federal employee termination procedures, what to expect, and how you can contest removal. For advice on your...
Continue ReadingSexual harassment is a pervasive problem in the American workforce. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) received 11,090 complaints alleging sex-based harassment in 2022, including 6,201 complaints alleging harassment of a sexual nature. Yet, the EEOC reports that up to 90% of workplace harassment goes unreported. No industry is safe from sexual harassment, including federal agencies. The two types...
Continue ReadingWhen working as a federal employee, it is critical that you understand your rights when you face charges such as AWOL (absence without official leave). As you might guess from its name, AWOL represents an unapproved absence from work. AWOL is a serious charge, which means it can lead to severe disciplinary actions such as suspensions, changes in pay...
Continue ReadingFederal employees enjoy many perks other employees do not, including that federal employment is not at will. That means, for your supervisor to fire you, they have to provide not only a reason but a legitimate reason that is clearly communicated to you. They must also offer you a chance to improve your performance through a performance improvement plan....
Continue ReadingStandard Form 3112 is the most vital document for federal employees seeking federal disability retirement. We cannot emphasize strongly enough how important it is to fill out an SF-3112 form correctly. Even simple mistakes can delay or upend your disability retirement application. Fortunately, we’ve written this guide to help walk you through each part of this form. We’ll discuss the...
Continue ReadingIn the realm of federal employment, sick leave is a coveted resource for those grappling with health-related hurdles. Unfortunately, federal employees often get accused of sick leave abuse. These accusations are often little more than ignorant responses to legitimate sick leave needs or open discrimination against employees with disability. Whatever the situation, it’s difficult to respond without knowing the...
Continue ReadingMigraine headaches are a serious health problem affecting almost 50 million Americans across the country. As any migraine sufferer knows, the condition is incredibly unpredictable. Individuals who suffer from migraines experience a dizzying range of symptoms, including severe pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Your work suffers, your colleagues notice, and your world feels like it’s in a perpetual...
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