Many federal employees aren’t sure where to start when it comes to qualified legal representation. There’s no shortage of attorneys focusing on employment law in almost any given city or state.
However, attorneys with only private-sector employment law experience generally don’t have the knowledge and insights to support federal workers properly.
Finding an advocate who understands federal employment law’s unique rules, regulations, and challenges is essential to help you protect your rights and livelihood during a workplace dispute.
This blog post will guide government workers through locating the best federal employment attorney for their needs. We’ll explain some strategies for identifying qualified federal employment attorneys in your area. We’ll also discuss how to evaluate potential candidates and, ultimately, how to find the best employment lawyer for your situation.
How to Find the Best Employment Lawyer for Federal Workers
If you’re a government employee, the best employment lawyer for your needs will come from a federal employment law firm. Federal employment attorneys are trained in the complex regulations and unique policies that govern the federal workforce nationwide.
Their knowledge is crucial when navigating various workplace issues that government workers may face, including whistleblower retaliation, Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) claims, Merit System Protection Board (MSPB) hearings, and disability retirement appeals.
Let’s look at some strategies you can use to search for firms that focus on federal employment law.
Attorney Referrals
Ask a trusted legal professional if they can recommend a law firm that specifically serves federal employees. Even if the recommending attorney doesn’t practice federal employment law, they may still have connections to colleagues or others with experience in the field.
State Bar Association
Many state bar associations have directories of members organized by practice area. Contact the bar association in your area and ask for referrals to firms or individuals in federal employment law.
Federal Employee Unions
If you’re a member of a federal union, ask your local office if they have a list of preferred attorneys known for representing federal workers. Many federal unions have connections to trusted legal advocates who regularly advise or serve members.
Employment Attorney Websites
A digital search engine can also be helpful for government employees looking for legal professionals. Even if no federal employment lawyers are in your immediate area, that’s not necessarily a problem. Since government workers are subject to federal law, an attorney or firm doesn’t have to be in your state to advise you.
When examining an employment law firm’s website, watch for who they serve. Some firms may practice employment law generally and say they can help federal workers. However, your best bet is an advocate focusing exclusively on federal employment law.
How to Ensure You Hire the Best Federal Employment Attorney for Your Case
Finding a federal employment lawyer is just the first step. Here are some steps to help ensure they’re the best fit for your specific needs.
Look into Their Background and Credentials
A federal employment attorney’s website can tell you much about the firm and its experience. Read up on their education, past cases, professional memberships, awards, and any special credentialing. It’s also important to ensure they have experience in the specific area where you need help.
Do they regularly serve government employees facing MSPB actions? What type of EEO claims have they handled? What kinds of results have they won for their clients? The best federal employment lawyers shouldn’t be shy about sharing their track record of successful cases.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Look for testimonials from recent clients who’ve sought guidance for issues similar to yours. Law firms include these directly on their websites, but you can also find them through third-party platforms. However, when reading anonymous reviews, take what you see with a grain of salt. Disgruntled former clients or rivals can use these sites to unfairly harm a firm’s online presence.
Schedule a Consultation
Directly speaking to an attorney is important to ensure they’re the right advocate for you. During your initial consultation, be ready to explain your workplace issue in detail and to ask questions such as:
- How many cases have you handled like mine?
- What outcomes did you achieve for those clients?
- What would be your strategy for approaching my case?
- Is there any recent legislation or legal changes that could impact my case?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- What costs and fees are involved?
Pay attention to how your attorney responds to your story and questions. Communication and trust are essential for any successful attorney-client relationship. Look for an advocate who listens carefully and provides honest answers to your questions about potential outcomes and costs.
Award-Winning Service for Federal Employees
At the Federal Employment Law Firm of Aaron D. Wersing PLLC, we know firsthand that federal employment disputes are often complex affairs with high stakes. When your livelihood is on the line, don’t settle for generic employment advice.
Attorney Aaron D. Wersing has spent years guiding federal employees through countless workplace issues, from hostile work environments to licensure disputes to MSPB actions.
With his training and on-the-ground experience with federal employment policy, he has the insights to help you understand and exercise your unique rights as a government worker. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
Aaron Wersing, Attorney at Law
Aaron Wersing is the founder of the Law Office of Aaron D. Wersing. Mr. Wersing graduated from the Georgia State University College of Law with a Doctorate in Jurisprudence and was the recipient of the CALI Excellence for the Future Award. Mr. Wersing previously attended the University of Georgia, where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting. Mr. Wersing is an active member of his local community. Mr. Wersing acts as a volunteer attorney with Houston Volunteer Lawyers, the pro bono legal aid organization of the Houston Bar Association. He is also a member of professional legal organizations such as the National Employment Lawyers Association and the American Inns of Court. To reach Aaron for a consultation, please call him at (833) 833-3529.
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