Sexting on an Agency Cell Phone: Prompt Action Required
By Deborah J. Hopkins, June 14, 2023 A new case from the EEOC on hostile work environment harassment illustrates the importance of an agency’s actions in not only avoiding liability, but also (and more importantly) in protecting the victim from continued unwelcome...A Painful (and Costly) Lesson About Last-Minute Probationary Removals
By Deborah J. Hopkins, June 14, 2023 We get a lot of questions about probationary periods. There can be confusion if employees switch agencies, are rehired after a break in service, or have veterans’ preference. The end date of an employee’s initial appointment...Supporting the Deciding Official – Even if You Disagree With the Penalty
By Deborah J. Hopkins, May 22, 2023 A recently issued non-precedential MSPB case caught my attention: an appeal involving a proposed removal that the Deciding Official (DO) mitigated to a demotion. In most cases, if a DO mitigates a proposed removal, it’s because the...The Board Saves the Deciding Official; Agency Prevails Despite DO Mistakes
By Deborah J. Hopkins, May 16, 2023 As we work our way through all the cases coming out of MSPB’s backlog, some catch our attention more than others, including Lott v. Army, SF-0752-16-0490-I-1 (Apr. 10, 2023)(NP). In this decision, the material facts were not in...Applicant Failed Polygraph, But Agency Failed to Provide EEO Process Info
By Deborah J. Hopkins, May 16, 2023 A new case from the EEOC reminds us it’s important to notify applicants about the EEO process. Lela B. v. DHS/USSS, EEOC Appeal No. 2023000348 (Apr. 20, 2023). The complainant applied for a Uniformed Division Officer position at the...Upcoming Events
Jul
9
Tue
all-day
Virtual Training Event – Advance...
Virtual Training Event – Advance...
Jul 9 – Jul 11 all-day
Download Individual Registration Form Course Description Do you want to take your knowledge and understanding of MSPB law to a new level? Have you let your skills languish while the Board sat empty and quorum-less[...]