Protection from Discrimination as a Federal Employee

Under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, all persons have the right to equal federal employment opportunities regardless of the following:

• race
• color
• sex
• national origin
• religion
• age
• disability
• prior EEO activity

In addition to laws that the EEOC enforces, there are federal protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation, marital status and political affiliation.

If you believe that you are a victim of unlawful discrimination (see above) you should call one of our experienced attorneys that practice before the EEOC.  Our attorneys can represent you at every state of the EEO process from filing the initial EEO complaint through settlement, trial, mediation or even the appellate state. 

Initiating a discrimination claim:

• You must contact an EEO counselor within 45 days of the discriminatory action. This cannot be waived.
• You may elect alternative dispute resolution (ADR) or counseling. If unsuccessful, you may then file with your federal agency.
• The agency must conduct an investigation unless your complaint is dismissed.

If your complaint contains an issue that the Merit System Protection Board has jurisdiction over, your case is called a “mixed case” and should be filed at the MSPB. For all other EEOC matters, once the agency completes its investigation you may request an EEO hearing before a judge.  The agency must complete its investigation within 180 days from the date you filed your formal complaint.

You may file in Federal Court at any point after the formal complaint has been pending for more than 180 days. 

The attorneys at Tully Rinckey PLLC can represent you at every state of the EEO process from initial EEO counseling, ADR, mediation and through trial and appeal if necessary.  Call us today at (202) 787-1900 to set up a consultation with one of our EEO attorneys.