Seattle Public Employee Rights Attorneys Advise Government Workers
Washington firm represents federal, state, county and municipal employees
At Mann & Kytle, PLLC in Seattle, we are Washington public employee rights attorneys who represent government workers at every level in matters related to workplace mistreatment. Whether you’re a federal employee who has faced discrimination or someone who believes you were fired because you reported fraud in city government, we have the skill and experience to assert your rights in administrative proceedings, and in court if warranted by the circumstances. As lawyers who have won favorable results for numerous public employees throughout Washington and resolved other cases by settlement and mediation, we can advise you of laws, deadlines and practical considerations that could affect the outcome of your case.
Do government employees have special rights?
When your employer is the federal government, the State of Washington or one of its municipalities, you might have different workplace rights and options than those who work for private companies. For example, unfair labor practices cases brought by public employees who work under a collectively bargained agreement are handled by the state’s Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC). It’s more likely that a government worker belongs to a union, which could provide protection against a termination unless the employer satisfied specific requirements. Each situation is unique and when you bring your concern to one of our Washington employment attorneys, we’ll guide you through the applicable rules and procedures.
What are your rights as a government employee?
Government employees can include civil servants, teachers, postal workers and individuals in hundreds of other positions. Like people who work for private businesses, public employees have the right to do their job in an environment that is free from discrimination and other types of unlawful conduct, such as whistleblower retaliation.
Are public workers considered to be “at will” employees?
Most employees in Washington are considered to be “at will” employees, but most public employees have a higher level of protections. All employers are prohibited from firing workers because they belong to a legally protected class or in retaliation for exercising their workplace rights. Furthermore, civil service rules or the terms of a union contract might place strict limits on a government body’s ability to dismiss a particular employee.
What are some complexities in a public employee case?
Many times, businesses and their insurance companies faced with potential liability for an employment infraction are motivated to settle a case quickly to avert a workplace distraction and litigation costs. On the other hand, governments are not motivated by profit and may impose a complex set of rules to address job-related complaints. The best way to increase the likelihood of a positive result is to work with an attorney who is already well versed in the unique aspects of public employee claims.
Is a public employee rights case worth it?
If you’re a public employee who is considering filing a job-related complaint, only you can decide if the potential advantages outweigh the drawbacks. We’ll give you the information you need regarding the available remedies and likelihood of success so that you can make the best decision possible.
Contact a Washington attorney with experience representing public employees
Mann & Kytle, PLLC advocates on behalf of public employees throughout Washington State in all types of matters relating to their workplace rights. To make an appointment with an experienced employment attorney, please call 206-457-2057 or contact us online. We are located in Downtown Seattle.
