Federal Employment Lawyers
Federal employees have many legal rights and protections relating to their employment. Yet they also face a complex legal system and, at times, a hostile work environment. The federal employment lawyers of Bramnick Creed have deep knowledge of federal employment law. We counsel, guide, and advocate for federal employees in all aspects of employment law.
Our Federal Employment Practice Areas
Federal Employee Personnel Matters
Bramnick Creed represents federal employees in all disciplinary and adverse personnel actions, including suspensions, demotions, and removals. Our attorneys have extensive experience responding to notices of proposed discipline and negotiating favorable resolutions. When negotiations fail, we advocate for federal employees in appeals to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. More…
Federal Employee EEO Matters
Bramnick Creed represents federal employees in all EEO matters, including discrimination, sexual harassment, and retaliation. We guide clients through every phase of the federal sector EEO process — from formal and informal complaints to agency investigations. Our attorneys are experienced litigators before the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and in federal courts. More…
Federal Employee Whistleblower Protection
Bramnick Creed represents federal employees in all aspects of federal whistleblower protection law and disputes involving prohibited personnel practices. We serve as a strategic adviser and courtroom advocate for federal employees who face retaliation following protected disclosures. Our attorneys guide federal whistleblowers through the OSC complaint process and appeals to the MSPB. More…
Experience Across Every Federal Agency
The attorneys of Bramnick Creed have successfully represented federal employees in a wide range of employment law matters across virtually every federal agency.
Attorney Joe Creed — Federal Employment Law
Attorney Joe Creed is well-versed in federal sector employment law. He has an established reputation as a strong advocate for federal employees. Joe is formerly the Employee Co-Chair of the American Bar Association’s Federal Sector Labor & Employment Law Committee. He is also the author of “Employment Rights of Federal Employees,” a chapter in the Maryland Employment Law Deskbook, as well as other publications on federal employment law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a federal employment lawyer do?
A federal employment lawyer represents federal employees in disputes with their agencies. This includes disciplinary actions, EEO complaints, MSPB appeals, whistleblower retaliation cases, and negotiations over proposed adverse actions. Federal employment law differs significantly from private sector employment law, so specialized experience is important.
What is the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)?
The MSPB is an independent federal agency that hears appeals from federal employees who face adverse personnel actions, such as removals, demotions, or suspensions of more than 14 days. If you receive a notice of proposed adverse action, you have the right to respond and, if the action proceeds, to appeal to the MSPB.
How do I file an EEO complaint as a federal employee?
Federal employees must first contact an EEO counselor at their agency within 45 days of the discriminatory act. If counseling does not resolve the matter, you may file a formal EEO complaint. The process involves an agency investigation, and you may ultimately appeal to the EEOC or federal court. Deadlines are strict, so consulting an attorney early is important.
Can a federal employee be fired without cause?
Unlike many private sector employees, federal employees have significant due process protections. An agency must have a legitimate, documented reason to remove a federal employee and must follow specific procedures,
