Workplace retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee in response to their engagement in protected activities, such as reporting illegal actions, discrimination, or harassment. In Virginia, like in many other states, workplace retaliation is unlawful and can lead to serious legal consequences for employers. If you believe you have been a […]
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Non-disclosure or confidentiality agreements, also referred to as NDAs, are legally binding contracts between two or more parties, ensuring certain information will remain private. In company settings, employers may request current or prospective employees to sign a non-disclosure agreement when they have access to sensitive information or knowledge about the organization. Most non-disclosure agreements are
Can Your Employer Require You to Sign a Non-disclosure Agreement in Virginia? Read More »
Losing a job is undoubtedly a challenging and overwhelming experience. No matter if the job loss was due to company downsizing, economic circumstances, or individual performance, the emotional and financial toll is significant. However, during such tough times, it is crucial to take control of your situation and plan your next steps carefully. If you
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Suitability adjudications are a critical aspect of the federal government’s hiring process. These formal judgments are utilized by agencies to determine whether an individual is fit for federal employment. However, suitability adjudications can also be used to take negative employment actions against current federal employees. If you are undergoing a suitability adjudication or are considering
Introduction to Suitability Adjudications Read More »
The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an independent agency in the federal government that provides an avenue for federal employees to appeal adverse personnel actions such as removal, suspension, demotion, or a reduction in pay. If you are a federal employee and have received an adverse employment decision, it is important to understand your
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Accusations of job-related misconduct carry significant consequences for federal employees. While federal employees benefit from significant job-related protections, this job security is not without its limitations. Instances of misconduct can result in termination for federal employees in certain circumstances. Even when allegations of misconduct do not rise to the level of warranting removal, they can
Adverse Action vs. Disciplinary Action: What’s the Difference? Read More »
The reasonable accommodation process refers to the steps an employer takes to identify and implement accommodations that will enable a worker with a disability to accomplish their job duties. The process involves a collaborative effort between the employer and the employee, where the employer engages with the employee to determine what accommodations are necessary. Any
7 Mistakes to Avoid in the Reasonable Accommodation Process Read More »
Sexual harassment is a serious issue that affects many workplaces across the United States, including the United States Postal Service (USPS). If you work for the postal service, it is important to understand the scope of the problem, as well as the legal options available to victims of sexual harassment. If you are a US
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The power dynamics in some federal workplaces create environments that are ripe for harassment. When someone has power over another, they may feel entitled to behave in a way that is abusive or inappropriate. This can lead to a culture of harassment and discrimination, seriously affecting both the people who work there and the organization
Power Dynamics In the Federal Workplace: Leaving Room for Harassment Read More »
Americans are working longer, and older workers hold a larger percentage of the American workforce than ever before. In the United States federal government, almost one-third of workers are aged 55 and over, and some are questioning whether these older employees can be forced into retirement. If you are employed by the US federal government
Can the Federal Government Force an Employee to Retire? Read More »
