Federal Employee Legal Services Center

Lawyers Near MeDistrict of ColumbiaWashingtonNorthwest WashingtonK Street Northwest

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

4.0

While the law firm can be difficult to reach initially, this was explained by the high case volume and inability to take more clients at the time. They were very thorough in the intaking process and made sure that the case was well known. After becoming a client, all messages, emails, and phone calls were promptly answered and all questions were answered. Not only were they extremely fair and competitive in price, their knowledge of the case exceeded my expectation by far. I would highly recommend their service to any employee in a MSPB or EEO case, as their professionalism is exceptional.

Nathan McClure
  • Overview
  • (240) 600-0050
  • www.felsc.com

Hours

Monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Federal Employee Legal Services Center Introduce

Working for the federal government in Washington, DC, comes with unique responsibilities and, at times, unique challenges. Federal employees are governed by a distinct set of laws and regulations that differ significantly from those in the private sector. When issues arise in the workplace—from discrimination and harassment to disciplinary actions and whistleblower retaliation—navigating these complex rules requires specialized legal expertise. The Federal Employee Legal Services Center (FELSC) is dedicated to providing that precise expertise, offering comprehensive legal representation to federal government employees in the District of Columbia and across the country.

Location and Accessibility

The Federal Employee Legal Services Center is conveniently located at 1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA. This address places FELSC in a highly accessible and central part of Washington, DC, within the vibrant Northwest quadrant. K Street NW is a well-known corridor in the city's business district, offering excellent connectivity for clients. Numerous Metro stations, including Farragut North (Red Line) and Farragut West (Orange, Blue, and Silver Lines), are just a short walk away, providing convenient public transportation options. Additionally, various parking garages are available in the vicinity for those who prefer to drive. This strategic and easily reachable location ensures that federal employees seeking specialized legal assistance can connect with FELSC efficiently in the heart of the nation's capital.

Services Offered

The Federal Employee Legal Services Center specializes exclusively in federal sector employment law, providing expert legal representation for federal government employees facing a wide array of personnel issues. Their services are tailored to the unique regulations and procedures governing federal employment. Key services offered by FELSC include:

  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Legal Representation: Resolving claims of discrimination (based on race, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, etc.) and retaliation at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
  • Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Appeals: Litigating adverse personnel actions such as removals, suspensions (14 days or more), demotions, and denial of within-grade-increases through the MSPB.
  • Responses to Personnel Actions: Crafting responses to proposed disciplinary actions like suspensions, demotions, and terminations, and negotiating settlements.
  • Office of Special Counsel (OSC) Cases: Shielding whistleblowers against retaliation and handling other prohibited personnel practices investigated by the OSC.
  • Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Issues: Determining optimal healthcare benefits and retirement plans, and obtaining disability retirement compensation.
  • Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) Cases: Filing labor-related charges and complaints.
  • Reductions in Force (RIF) Issues: Assisting employees impacted by RIFs, including those unlawfully terminated or threatened with termination.
  • Employee Investigations: Assisting federal employees undergoing agency investigations.
  • Workers' Compensation Benefits (OWCP): Obtaining benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses through the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs.
  • Office of Inspector General (OIG) Responses: Providing guidance and representation in responding to OIG inquiries.
  • Security Clearance Appeals: Appealing the denial, revocation, or downgrade of security clearances.
  • Privacy Act Matters: Maintaining and protecting federal employees' privacy rights.
  • Hatch Act Defense: Defending the right of federal employees to engage in political activity within legal boundaries.
  • Federal Torts Claim Act: Litigating negligence and other actions against the federal government.
  • Internal Agency Grievances: Filing and pursuing grievances within federal agencies.
  • Assistance for Postal Workers: Specialized legal aid for employees of the U.S. Postal Service.
  • Support for Federal Contractors: Furnishing advice to federal contractors on relevant employment matters.

Features / Highlights

The Federal Employee Legal Services Center emphasizes several key features that make it a prominent choice for federal employees seeking legal assistance:

  • Specialized Federal Employment Law Focus: Unlike general practice firms, FELSC's exclusive dedication to federal sector employment law means they possess a deep and nuanced understanding of the unique statutes, regulations, and administrative procedures that govern federal employees.
  • Experienced Representation: The firm's attorneys, led by Rosemary Dettling (a Notre Dame Law School graduate with extensive experience), have litigated hundreds of cases before the EEOC and MSPB, demonstrating a strong track record.
  • Thorough Intake Process: As noted by one client, they are "very thorough in the intaking process and made sure that the case was well known," indicating a meticulous approach to understanding client situations from the outset.
  • Post-Client Responsiveness: While initial contact might be challenging due to high case volume, one client reported that "after becoming a client, all messages, emails, and phone calls were promptly answered and all questions were answered," suggesting dedicated attention once representation begins.
  • Professionalism and Knowledge: Clients commend their "professionalism" and assert that their "knowledge of the case exceeded my expectation by far," highlighting their expertise and commitment to quality.
  • Competitive and Fair Pricing: The firm aims to provide "excellent legal representation at a reasonable cost, consistent with your federal salary," making legal support more accessible for federal employees.
  • Nationwide Service: FELSC is "pleased to bring its unique expertise to your aid in any state or country where you are stationed," providing comprehensive support regardless of the federal employee's duty station.
  • Vigorous Advocacy: They are committed to "expeditiously preserv your civil rights and help eliminate illegal actions that affect your benefits," actively defending clients' interests.

It is important for potential clients to be aware of mixed public feedback regarding initial contact. While one review highly praises post-retainer responsiveness and expertise, another expressed significant frustration with "difficulty to reach initially" and attorneys refusing to reach out for a consultation, citing "completely unprofessional" experiences. This suggests that while their services are highly valued once engaged, initial outreach and intake can be challenging, possibly due to high demand.

Promotions or Special Offers

While the Federal Employee Legal Services Center (FELSC) primarily focuses on delivering specialized legal services rather than consumer-style promotions, their value proposition includes a commitment to reasonable costs. Their website states that their goal is to "provide excellent legal representation at a reasonable cost, consistent with your federal salary." This approach makes high-quality legal support more attainable for federal employees who might be concerned about legal fees. Prospective clients are encouraged to contact the firm directly to discuss their specific case and understand the fee structure relevant to their situation.

Contact Information

To connect with the Federal Employee Legal Services Center, you can use the following details:

  • Address: 1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA
  • Phone: (240) 600-0050
  • Mobile Phone: +1 240-600-0050

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For federal employees residing in the District of Columbia, the Federal Employee Legal Services Center (FELSC) offers highly specialized and essential legal representation. Its prime location on K Street NW in Washington, DC, ensures convenient access for local federal workers, whether they are based downtown or commuting from other parts of the city or surrounding areas. This accessibility is crucial when navigating sensitive and time-sensitive federal employment matters.

What truly makes FELSC suitable for locals is its exclusive and deep-seated expertise in federal employment law. Unlike firms that dabble in various legal areas, FELSC is singularly focused on the unique rules, regulations, and administrative processes that govern federal employees. This specialization means that DC-based federal workers, whether facing EEO complaints, MSPB appeals, or other personnel actions, can find an attorney who genuinely understands the intricacies of their specific situation. The feedback, while mixed on initial contact, strongly indicates that once a client is engaged, the firm provides "exceptional professionalism" and "knowledge that exceeded expectation." This commitment to thoroughness and expert advocacy, coupled with a goal of reasonable pricing consistent with federal salaries, positions FELSC as an invaluable resource for protecting the rights and careers of federal employees in the nation's capital. For those in the federal workforce, FELSC offers the peace of mind that comes with specialized, dedicated legal representation right in their backyard.

Federal Employee Legal Services Center Location

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Reviews

While the law firm can be difficult to reach initially, this was explained by the high case volume and inability to take more clients at the time. They were very thorough in the intaking process and made sure that the case was well known. After becoming a client, all messages, emails, and phone calls were promptly answered and all questions were answered. Not only were they extremely fair and competitive in price, their knowledge of the case exceeded my expectation by far. I would highly recommend their service to any employee in a MSPB or EEO case, as their professionalism is exceptional.

Apr 09, 2025 · Nathan McClure

This organization needs to be investigated immediately. I've called for 3+ months to inquire about obtaining legal representation for a work related matter. However, the receptionist continues to take my contact information, claims she passing it along, but yet the attorneys REFUSE to reach out to me. In addition, when one did reach out to me via email early on, by the name of Rosemary Dettling, she refused to further answer my questions, in regards to a consultation AND has avoided my calls and emails like the plague. It's almost as if this place is suspiciously blackballing and refusing to consult with me for reasons unknown. Completely unprofessional.

May 21, 2024 · Melanie Schlagger

They were very patient and helped me understand the legal principles of my case and what I needed to do to win. They discussed the burdens of proof and never talked down to me. They hardly ever billed for phone calls an administrative things like emails. I was pleased to learn that my retainer was used sparingly and only for work that had to be completed for the judge. They definitely do not gouge you. I am always suspicions and was pleasantly surprised that they dispelled all my previous opinions of lawyers.

May 26, 2023 · G M

They were very patient and helped me understand the legal principles of my case and what I needed to do to win. They discussed the burdens of proof and never talked down to me. They hardly ever billed for phone calls an administrative things like emails. I was pleased to learn that my retainer was used sparingly and only for work that had to be completed for the judge. They definitely do not gouge you. I am always suspicions and was pleasantly surprised that they dispelled all my previous opinions of lawyers.

May 26, 2023 · G M

Rosemary Dettling is an amazing lawyer! Let me start off by saying she has showed me a great deal of compassion and understanding as my case has been very stressful for me. She has taken the time out of her personal day to assure me of my case and laid my anxiety to rest. She is straight forward with her rates, I believe she is very comparable in pricing, there are no hidden fees. Rosemary took my case when no one else would. Her knowledge of my case, confidence and professionalism during court presenting my case exceeded my expectations! I would and have recommended Rosemary Dettling to anyone needing an EEOC lawyer. There are no words that can describe my gratitude for R as she believes in me and my case. Thank you Rosemary.

May 17, 2016 · D Nichols

Rosemary Dettling is an amazing lawyer! Let me start off by saying she has showed me a great deal of compassion and understanding as my case has been very stressful for me. She has taken the time out of her personal day to assure me of my case and laid my anxiety to rest. She is straight forward with her rates, I believe she is very comparable in pricing, there are no hidden fees. Rosemary took my case when no one else would. Her knowledge of my case, confidence and professionalism during court presenting my case exceeded my expectations! I would and have recommended Rosemary Dettling to anyone needing an EEOC lawyer. There are no words that can describe my gratitude for R as she believes in me and my case. Thank you Rosemary.

May 17, 2016 · D Nichols

Best Decision I Ever Made 5.0 stars Posted by Lynne Tuesday at 1:23pm Hired attorney In 2007 I filed an EEO Complaint against my employer for a hostile work environment and later included retaliation when I was denied a promotion. The case went to mediation and I won my promotion and a 2-step increase, however I was responsible for my attorney fees. My attorney at the time warned me that this would not be the end of it. As soon as the agreement was signed, the retaliation began in earnest, subtle at first and later to the point that I was falsely accused of unprofessional conduct. I contacted my first attorney to represent me but he declined the case. I then contacted what I thought to be a reputable law firm in DC, only to be bled dry of what little savings I had as well as what I had to borrow against my 401K before we even got to hearing. Ultimately that was the point I realized that my attorneys had no intention of going to hearing, even though I was adamant upon hiring them that this time I had to go to hearing. This firm switched my attorney three times in the three weeks prior to the actual depositions, and during the deposition phase failed to properly represent me. When I declined to sign a new retainer for responding to Agency’s Motion for Summary Judgement, which was due in one week, my attorney stated that “This time they would really fight for me and in the next breath stated he had a great idea to get agency to settle”. At that point, I hung up the phone and searched desperately for a new attorney to represent me. That is when I found Rosemary Dettling. She took my case at the 11th hour (less than 1 week to respond to agency’s motion for SJ), received my file less than two business days prior to the response date because my former law firm dragged their feet in releasing my file) and was able to make such a compelling argument to deny SJ that we were granted a hearing date. The hearing was held last week and when I tell you that Rosemary Dettling is the ONLY attorney you should have represent you before the EEOC, that is a huge understatement! She was able to get all of agency’s witnesses to admit wrongdoing when I think they actually believed they were credible witnesses! We have not received a decision yet from the hearing, but I am confident that we will prevail. Rosemary Dettling is the most competent, knowledgeable and compassionate attorney I have ever met and I would not be in the position I currently find myself in without her. You will not find better representation anywhere! As frightening as it was to switch attorneys at the last minute, it was the best decision I have made in my adult life! I highly recommend Rosemary Dettling, and I am proud to call her my attorney.

May 26, 2016 · Lynne Doherty

Best Decision I Ever Made 5.0 stars Posted by Lynne Tuesday at 1:23pm Hired attorney In 2007 I filed an EEO Complaint against my employer for a hostile work environment and later included retaliation when I was denied a promotion. The case went to mediation and I won my promotion and a 2-step increase, however I was responsible for my attorney fees. My attorney at the time warned me that this would not be the end of it. As soon as the agreement was signed, the retaliation began in earnest, subtle at first and later to the point that I was falsely accused of unprofessional conduct. I contacted my first attorney to represent me but he declined the case. I then contacted what I thought to be a reputable law firm in DC, only to be bled dry of what little savings I had as well as what I had to borrow against my 401K before we even got to hearing. Ultimately that was the point I realized that my attorneys had no intention of going to hearing, even though I was adamant upon hiring them that this time I had to go to hearing. This firm switched my attorney three times in the three weeks prior to the actual depositions, and during the deposition phase failed to properly represent me. When I declined to sign a new retainer for responding to Agency’s Motion for Summary Judgement, which was due in one week, my attorney stated that “This time they would really fight for me and in the next breath stated he had a great idea to get agency to settle”. At that point, I hung up the phone and searched desperately for a new attorney to represent me. That is when I found Rosemary Dettling. She took my case at the 11th hour (less than 1 week to respond to agency’s motion for SJ), received my file less than two business days prior to the response date because my former law firm dragged their feet in releasing my file) and was able to make such a compelling argument to deny SJ that we were granted a hearing date. The hearing was held last week and when I tell you that Rosemary Dettling is the ONLY attorney you should have represent you before the EEOC, that is a huge understatement! She was able to get all of agency’s witnesses to admit wrongdoing when I think they actually believed they were credible witnesses! We have not received a decision yet from the hearing, but I am confident that we will prevail. Rosemary Dettling is the most competent, knowledgeable and compassionate attorney I have ever met and I would not be in the position I currently find myself in without her. You will not find better representation anywhere! As frightening as it was to switch attorneys at the last minute, it was the best decision I have made in my adult life! I highly recommend Rosemary Dettling, and I am proud to call her my attorney.

May 26, 2016 · Lynne Doherty

Lawyers Near Me

Law Offices of Maddox Levine PLLC

Law Offices of Maddox Levine PLLC

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

The Bassin Law Firm PLLC

The Bassin Law Firm PLLC

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Law Office Of Jerry Joseph, PLC.

Law Office Of Jerry Joseph, PLC.

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Anvil Legal Group

Anvil Legal Group

1629 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Law Office of Jose Pertierra

Law Office of Jose Pertierra

1629 K St NW #801, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Law Offices of David Saffold, LLC

Law Offices of David Saffold, LLC

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Zuckerman Law

Zuckerman Law

1629 K St NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Konare Law

Konare Law

1629 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Black Mesa Law Group

Black Mesa Law Group

1627 K St NW #400, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Virtue Law Group

Virtue Law Group

1629 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Volta Law Group, LLC

Volta Law Group, LLC

1629 K St NW 3rd Fl., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Walker Corporate Law Group

Walker Corporate Law Group

1629 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA