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I'm Attorney Justin Schnitzer. Our commitment is to represent federal employees in cases of employment violations just as we would want to be represented, all with the aim of achieving decisive victories.

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Can You Medically Retire from the Federal Government?

Read Time: 7 min read

Federal employees who develop disabling medical conditions may wonder about their options for leaving service early. Medical retirement, officially known as Federal Disability Retirement, provides a potential path for those who can no longer perform their job duties due to health issues. But how exactly does this process work, and who qualifies? Can you medically retire from the federal government? Let’s find out. Federal Disability Retirement serves as a crucial safety net for civil servants facing health challenges. It provides …

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Understanding the OPM Disability Retirement Approval Rate

Read Time: 5 min read

For federal employees facing medical conditions that prevent them from performing their job duties, OPM disability retirement approval rate can be a crucial lifeline. However, many applicants find themselves wondering about their chances of approval. This article delves into the OPM disability retirement approval rate, factors influencing decisions, and strategies to improve your chances of a successful application. What is the approval rate for OPM disability retirement? The approval rate for OPM disability retirement varies and is not publicly disclosed …

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Main Reasons Security Clearances Get Denied or Revoked

Read Time: 6 min read

Key Takeaways: The Main Reasons Security Clearances Get Denied or Revoked Reason #1: Excessive debt, unexplained wealth, or gambling problems may indicate vulnerability to coercion. Reason #2: Close ties to foreign nationals or dual citizenship can raise concerns about allegiance. Reason #3: Criminal behavior, dishonesty, or substance abuse undermines trustworthiness. Reason #4: Poorly managed mental conditions or failure to follow treatment can raise concerns, though seeking help is encouraged. Reason #5: Adherence to security protocols, self-reporting, and addressing concerns proactively …

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Absence Without Leave (AWOL)

Read Time: 5 min read

Absence Without Leave, commonly known as AWOL, is a serious charge that can be levied against federal employees who are not present at their workplace without proper authorization. Understanding the intricacies of AWOL meaning is crucial for both federal employees and supervisors to maintain a productive and compliant work environment. 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 …

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Federal Employee Suspension Without Pay: What to Do

Read Time: 7 min read

Facing a federal employee suspension without pay can be a daunting and stressful experience. It’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect your career and livelihood. This article will guide you through the process of dealing with a suspension without pay, from initial notification to potential appeals and returning to work. What are the key steps for a federal employee facing suspension without pay? If you’re a federal employee facing suspension without pay, you …

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Failure to Follow Instructions Charge for Federal Employees

Read Time: 6 min read

Federal employees are expected to adhere to high standards of performance and conduct as outlined in agency policies and federal regulations, ensuring they serve the public effectively. One common issue that can arise in federal workplaces is the failure to follow instructions. This article explores what constitutes a failure to follow instructions, its potential consequences, and how federal employees can respond to such allegations. Federal workplaces typically have various types of instructions that employees are expected to follow: Failure to follow …

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What is a Reduction in Force in the Federal Government and What To Do

Read Time: 6 min read

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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Can You Be Fired for Using CBD as a Federal Employee?

Read Time: 6 min read

In the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp production and the natural non-psychoactive compound cannabidiol (CBD) were made federally legal. This has allowed farmers to grow cannabis plants for hemp (rope and fabric) as well as other products made with the same crop. Federally legal cannabis products can contain any amount of CBD but must contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. THC is also a natural compound found in cannabis plants, and low-THC strains must be cultivated to meet this …

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What are the Douglas Factors?

Read Time: 6 min read

Federal employment law is a distinct area requiring a nuanced understanding of regulations and procedures. As a government worker, certain rights are afforded you when your agency proposes disciplinary action against you. Among the elements you must understand are the Douglas Factors, a set of criteria your agency must follow before taking adverse action against you. Ultimately, you want to demonstrate that you don’t deserve punishment or that the proposed penalty is excessive by responding and contesting the proposed discipline. …

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The Proposed Removal Process for Federal Employees

Read Time: 5 min read

Federal employees facing potential termination from their positions must navigate a complex process known as proposed removal from federal service. This procedure is designed to protect the rights of government workers while allowing agencies to address serious misconduct or performance issues. Understanding the steps involved and your rights as an employee is crucial if you find yourself in this situation. What is a proposed removal from federal service? A proposed removal is the formal process by which a federal agency …

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