Federal Employee Death Benefits: The Daughter is Not Her Mother’s Spouse
Here’s a rather bizarre case revolving around who should be paid death benefits for a federal employee whose husband was found to have been responsible for her death.
Court Cases
Stay informed with the latest court cases affecting federal employees and retirees, including major federal employment law decisions, appeals, and rulings from MSPB, FLRA, EEOC, and federal courts. This category covers workplace rights, disciplinary actions, due process cases, retirement‑related rulings, TSP‑related litigation, and significant legal decisions impacting federal agencies and the federal workforce. Find clear summaries and analysis of the court outcomes shaping federal employment protections, benefits, and workplace policies.
Removal of Air Force Nurse Upheld Despite “Discomfort With Harshness” of the Penalty
In an Air Force case, a registered nurse is fired and stays fired despite the court’s “discomfort with the harshness” of the removal penalty.
A Bad Day in Court
A U.S. Marshals Service Officer was faces a lawsuit saying she partially strip searched a Public Defender in front of a male officer and prisoners.
Storing Weapons in Abandoned Vehicle Leads to Removal of Army Employee
An Army officer was fired after storing weapons in an abandoned vehicle. He charged that the penalty was too severe and went to federal court to prove his case.
The Female Veteran With Diminished Mental Capacity and the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
A vocational rehabilitation specialist working with a female veteran with diminished mental capacity was removed after the VA made four charges against him with multiple specifications.
National Park Service Permit Requirement is Unconstitutional
An appeals court has ruled that NPS’ requirement for a permit to conduct any type of expressive activities in national parks is unconstitutional.
“Public Service Award” Leads to Federal Lawsuit Against Federal Employee
A federal employee received a check for $383,600 as a public service award based on his work to expose and stop oil companies’ underpayment of royalties. This led to a suit by the government charging the employee with supplementing his salary in violation of law.
Romance, Performance Appraisal, and Getting Fired at USDA
USDA won a court decision that challenged the removal of a scientist who had “romantic relationships” with three female subordinates.
Worker’s Compensation and Third Party Damage Payments
What happens when a Federal employee receives worker’s compensation (FECA) and successfully recovers damages from a third party that caused the injury? The government gets the money, of course, as one couple recently learned.
You’re In the Army Now!
An appeals court has rejected the argument of a JAG attorney that it should invalidate disciplinary actions taken against him for his “shenanigans” in getting out early with a medical discharge.
