Washington, DC Federal EEO Complaint Lawyers

Attorneys Assisting With Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Issues in Washington

Like other employees, people who work for the federal government have the right to work in an environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The federal government has put multiple laws in place to protect these rights, ensuring that all employees are treated fairly regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or other protected factors. However, equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws and procedures can be complex and challenging for federal employees, and failure to follow the correct steps could lead to the loss of the right to file claims. At Freedman Law, LLC, our employment law attorneys provide legal help to federal employees whose rights have been violated, working to ensure that their rights are protected.

Understanding the EEO Complaint Process for Federal Employees

Government employees can take steps to address and resolve issues related to discrimination in the workplace. However, this process involves strict deadlines and specific procedures that must be followed. Freedman Law, LLC can guide federal employees through each stage of the complaint process, providing the support needed to protect their rights.

Filing EEO Complaints

The first step to take following discrimination or other issues that have affected an employee's rights is to initiate the EEO complaint process. This typically begins with contacting an EEO counselor at the federal agency where a person works within 45 days of the discriminatory action. During this initial stage, the EEO counselor will attempt to resolve the issue through informal means, such as counseling or mediation. If the issue is not resolved informally, an employee will have the right to file a formal EEO complaint.

When making a formal EEO complaint, an employee will submit a detailed account of the alleged discrimination, including the specific incidents, dates, and people involved. It is crucial to file the complaint within the appropriate timeframe—usually within 15 days after receiving a notice of the right to file from the EEO counselor. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in the dismissal of a complaint.

Freedman Law, LLC can assist employees with matters related to EEO complaints. We can ensure that the information provided in a complaint is accurate, that discrimination is well-documented, and that the proper documents are filed within the appropriate deadlines.

Requesting EEOC Hearings

After filing a formal EEO complaint, the agency will conduct an investigation into an employee's allegations. At the conclusion of the investigation, the agency will issue a decision, and if it determines that discrimination occurred, it will take the appropriate actions in response. If an agency finds that discrimination did not occur, or if an employee is unsatisfied with the decisions made about how to address discrimination, they have the right to request a hearing before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

An EEOC hearing is a formal legal proceeding that is held before an administrative judge, and it can be a critical step in achieving a fair resolution, particularly if the agency's investigation was incomplete or biased. The judge will hear evidence and testimony from both sides, and they will make a decision based on the facts presented during the hearing.

At Freedman Law, LLC, we understand the importance of thorough preparation and strong representation during EEOC hearings. Our attorneys can help determine whether requesting a hearing is the best course of action, and if so, we will provide guidance throughout the entire process. We will work to gather and present evidence, question and cross-examine witnesses, and challenge any attempts by the agency to undermine an employee's claims. We will seek appropriate forms of relief, including reinstatement, back pay, compensatory damages, and changes to agency policies or practices.

We can also help determine the best options in situations where EEOC hearings result in unfavorable decisions. We can file appeals or requests for reconsideration with the EEOC, and if necessary, we can also pursue lawsuits and seek relief in federal courts.

Contact Our Washington, DC EEOC Hearing Attorneys

For federal employees who have experienced discrimination, the lawyers at Freedman Law, LLC can provide skilled, experienced representation to ensure that these issues will be resolved correctly. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that justice is served in cases involving discrimination or related issues. We understand the complexities of the EEO complaint process, and we can provide the guidance and representation needed to help federal employees protect their rights. Contact our lawyers at 410-290-6230 to arrange a consultation.