Ottawa Employment Lawyers for Federal Public Service Employees

Federal public service employees, government officials, Parliamentary employees and diplomats are all subject to unique employment regimes and legislative rules. Termination, disciplinary action and other employment matters are each subject to a complex set of rules and processes requiring specialized experience to navigate effectively.

The employment law lawyers at Champ & Associates are uniquely experienced with representing clients in these roles and will guide them through the processes relevant to their circumstances to find the most efficient and successful strategy for resolution.

Federal public sector employees may be unfairly denied a promotion in a staffing competition, or face demotion or termination for allegations of poor performance or discipline. They may experience personal harassment in the workplace or unsafe work conditions. Many find the complex complaint and grievance mechanisms confusing and they don’t know where to turn when they are treated unfairly.

Resolving Employment Issues for Federal Public Service and Parliamentary Employees

Federal public service and Parliamentary employees are subject to specific legislation, separate from the provincial Employment Standards Act and the federal Canada Labour Code. Employment disputes pertaining to these unique roles are adjudicated under the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations Act, Public Service Employment Act, and Parliamentary Employment and Staff Relations Act and heard by the Federal Public Sector and Labour Relations Board (the Board).

There are multiple pathways and options for resolving an employment issue in the federal public sector, which will depend on the nature of the issue, and the specific role in question. Champ & Associates can simplify the process considerably for their clients thanks to their extensive experience navigating the complex employment dispute procedures in the federal public sector. They always strive to find the most cost-effective and efficient method available to secure a successful resolution on behalf of their clients.

Disguised Discipline in Federal Public Service

Disciplinary actions in the federal government can be disguised in a variety of ways, and the purpose is most often to limit the employee’s procedural options. The deciding factor of whether these quasi-disciplinary actions can be challenged in an independent forum is complicated and often depends on the nature of the action, the employer’s motivation, and the impact on the employee. Disguised discipline could include imposing involuntary leave without pay, declaring a substantive position vacant, or revoking a security clearance. Often, the department will characterize these actions as “administrative”, limiting an employee’s legal rights to challenge the decision. Our lawyers have significant experience advising and representing employees who face disguised discipline and other adverse actions in federal public service employment.

Champ & Associates: Ottawa Employment Lawyers with Extensive Experience Representing Government Officials & Diplomats

At Champ & Associates, we have an extensive background representing clients in employment disputes unique to the Ottawa area, including the federal public service, parliamentary employees, the RCMP and the Canadian Forces. Our team will identify the best path forward for the successful resolution of various employment matters, including termination, disciplinary measures and other issues.

The lawyers at Champ & Associates have the experience and systemic knowledge to take on this challenge for their clients and win. They provide clients with an honest assessment of their matter and then develop a plan to secure the necessary remedies under the circumstances. To discuss your matter in confidence, please contact the firm by telephone at 613-237-4740 or reach out online.