Federal Civilian Employment & MSPB Defense
Experienced Representation for Federal Civilian Employees
Federal civilian employees work within a complex legal and regulatory framework that governs discipline, performance actions, and workplace rights. When an agency proposes disciplinary action or adverse employment consequences, the process can move quickly and the stakes are often significant—including suspension, loss of pay, demotion, or removal (termination).
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Federal Employment Representation
Attorney Nicholas C. DauSchmidt represents federal civilian employees in disciplinary matters, agency investigations, and appeals before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and other administrative forums.
As a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with over a decade of experience in government administrative law and disciplinary proceedings, Attorney DauSchmidt understands how federal agencies investigate alleged misconduct and how disciplinary decisions are made. He provides strategic, independent representation designed to protect federal employees’ careers, reputations, and due process rights.
Federal Employment Matters We Handle
Federal civilian employees face a wide range of disciplinary and employment actions. Our practice provides representation and advice in matters including:
Adverse and Disciplinary Actions
Proposed removals (terminations)
Suspensions
Demotions
Letters of reprimand or counseling
Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs)
Security clearance–related employment actions
Proposed disciplinary investigations
Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Appeals
Appeals of removal from federal service
Appeals of suspensions exceeding 14 days
Demotion and reduction-in-grade appeals
Constructive removal claims
Whistleblower retaliation cases
Individual Right of Action (IRA) appeals
Agency Investigations & Administrative Proceedings
Responses to agency investigations
Representation during administrative interviews
Douglas Factor mitigation and penalty challenges
Preparation of written responses to proposed discipline
Defense against allegations of misconduct, lack of candor, or failure to follow procedures
Professional Credentialing and Quality Assurance Investigations
Federal civilian employees in professional and medical roles may also face administrative investigations related to credentialing, clinical performance, or professional conduct. These matters can have serious career consequences and may lead to adverse employment actions.
Attorney DauSchmidt represents federal employees in matters involving:
Quality Assurance Investigations (QAI) and peer review proceedings
Clinical privileging and credentialing actions
Defense Health Agency (DHA) credentialing matters
Adverse privileging determinations
Professional misconduct allegations
Licensing issues affecting federal employment
Investigations conducted under agency quality assurance or credentialing authorities can result in restrictions on practice privileges, reporting to professional licensing boards, or disciplinary action against the employee. Early legal guidance is critical in navigating these processes and protecting both professional credentials and federal employment status.
Other Federal Employment Issues
EEO Matters
EEO and discrimination matters
Retaliation
Retaliation or reprisal claims
Whistleblower
Whistleblower protection issues
Grievances
Administrative grievances
Protecting Your Career and Due Process Rights
Federal employees are entitled to important procedural protections when facing disciplinary action. However, successfully asserting those rights requires careful legal strategy and familiarity with federal employment law.
Many cases turn on technical issues such as:
Whether the agency properly proved the alleged misconduct
Whether the penalty is excessive under the Douglas factors
Whether the agency followed required procedures
Whether the action was motivated by retaliation or prohibited personnel practices
Effective legal representation can often make the difference between losing a career and preserving it.
Representation Worldwide for Federal Employees
Federal civilian employees serve throughout the United States and around the world, including in overseas military commands and Department of Defense installations.
Based in Europe but representing clients globally, Attorney DauSchmidt works with federal employees across agencies, including:
Department of Defense (DoD)
Defense Health Agency (DHA)
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Other federal civilian agencies
Wherever you are stationed or employed, experienced counsel can assist in protecting your rights and navigating the federal employment system.
Speak With an Attorney About Your Case
If you are a federal civilian employee facing disciplinary action, a proposed removal, or an MSPB appeal, early legal advice can be critical.