Maryland Federal Employment Law Attorney

A Higher Level of Representation for Employees of the Federal Government

At the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC, we represent federal employees in Maryland, helping them navigate the complexities of federal employment law. If you are a federal worker facing workplace issues, you may be protected in ways that employees in the private sector are not. Our firm is dedicated to helping federal employees safeguard their rights and seek justice when facing challenges like prohibited personnel practices, discrimination, or retaliation. With over 30 years of experience in federal employment law, Ruth Ann Azeredo, the principal attorney at our firm, offers unmatched expertise in this highly specialized area of law. Whether you are dealing with a personnel action, filing an equal employment opportunity (EEO) claim, or facing retaliation, our firm is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us online or at (240) 734-3033 to schedule a consultation regarding your federal employment law matter.

How Federal Employees Are Protected Differently Than Private Sector Workers

Federal employees enjoy certain legal protections that are not available to workers in the private sector. These protections stem from a combination of federal statutes, regulations, and agency-specific policies that govern how federal employees must be treated. Here are some key differences in how federal employees are protected:

Prohibited Personnel Practices (PPPs)

Federal law outlines specific prohibited personnel practices (PPPs) that protect employees from unfair treatment. These practices include discrimination, retaliation, and actions that violate merit system principles. Unlike private-sector employees, federal workers can file complaints with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) or the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) if they believe they have been subjected to a PPP.

Merit System Principles

Federal employees are protected under the merit system, which ensures that personnel decisions are based on fairness and merit rather than political favoritism, nepotism, or other improper influences. This system is designed to prevent arbitrary personnel actions and promote the efficient and ethical operation of government agencies.

Whistleblower Protections

Federal employees who expose waste, fraud, or abuse within their agencies are afforded strong whistleblower protections under the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA). This law ensures that whistleblowers cannot be retaliated against for speaking out about illegal or unethical practices within the government.

Civil Service Reform Act (CSRA)

The CSRA provides a detailed framework for federal employment, outlining how federal employees can challenge adverse actions like demotions, suspensions, or terminations. This law allows federal employees to appeal certain personnel actions to the MSPB.

Private-sector employees do not typically enjoy these same protections. While private workers may have some recourse through state and federal anti-discrimination laws, federal employees benefit from additional layers of protection designed specifically for government workers.

How Our Law Firm Protects Federal Employees' Rights

At the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC, we understand the intricacies of federal employment law and are committed to protecting the rights of federal employees. Our firm provides comprehensive legal representation in various areas, including:

• Challenging Adverse Actions: We represent employees in cases involving suspension, demotion, or termination, ensuring that due process is followed.
• Addressing Prohibited Personnel Practices: Our firm is dedicated to advocating for employees facing unfair employment practices, such as discrimination or retaliation.
• Navigating the Grievance Process: We assist employees in filing grievances and navigating the complex procedures involved in federal employment disputes.

Understanding Prohibited Personnel Practices

Prohibited personnel practices (PPPs) are employment-related actions that are forbidden under federal law. These practices include discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. Other prohibited practices encompass retaliation against whistleblowers, nepotism, and coercion of political activity.

Federal employees who believe they are victims of a PPP can seek recourse through various channels, including the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) and the MSPB. Our law firm helps clients identify and challenge PPPs, ensuring that their rights are upheld and that they are not subject to unlawful treatment.

Equal Employment Opportunity, Discrimination, and Retaliation Claims

Federal employees are entitled to a workplace free from discrimination and retaliation. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) oversees issues related to discrimination, ensuring that federal agencies adhere to laws that prohibit discrimination on various grounds.

Employees facing discrimination can file claims with the EEOC, and our firm provides guidance and representation throughout this process. We handle cases involving:

• Discrimination: Whether based on race, gender, disability, or another protected characteristic, we work to hold employers accountable for discriminatory practices.
• Retaliation: Employees who engage in protected activities, such as reporting discrimination or participating in investigations, are safeguarded against retaliation. Our firm fiercely advocates for those who have experienced retaliatory actions.
• Harassment: We address hostile work environment claims, ensuring that employees do not suffer from unwelcome conduct that affects their work performance or creates an intimidating atmosphere.

Why Choose the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC?

When it comes to federal employment law, experience matters. Ruth Ann Azeredo, the principal attorney at the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC, has over 30 years of experience handling federal employment matters. She spent 10 years working as an attorney for the federal government, giving her an insider's understanding of the complex rules and regulations that govern federal employment. For the past 20 years, she has represented federal employees through her law office, successfully helping clients resolve their disputes and protect their careers.

Here are just a few reasons to choose our firm:

• Experience: With over 30 years in the field, Ruth Ann Azeredo knows federal employment law inside and out. She has successfully handled hundreds of cases involving PPPs, EEO claims, whistleblower retaliation, and more.
• Personalized Attention: We understand that each case is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific situation. You will work directly with an experienced attorney who will tailor a legal strategy to meet your needs.
• Commitment to Federal Employees: Our firm is dedicated to representing federal employees. We understand the challenges you face and are committed to protecting your rights.

We are here to help you navigate the complex world of federal employment law and protect your career.

If you are a federal employee in Maryland facing workplace issues, contact the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo LLC today by calling (240) 734-3033.