What to Do If the OSC Contacts You
If you’re a federal employee, the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is an agency you should know about. The OSC’s mission is to protect federal employees from prohibited personnel practices (PPP), which include discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, and other protected categories. If you receive a letter or phone call from the OSC, it’s important to take it seriously. Ignoring an OSC contact can have serious consequences, including disciplinary action or even termination. So, what do you do if the OSC contacts you?
Don’t Panic
The first thing to do when you receive an OSC contact is to stay calm. Don’t ignore the letter or phone call, but also don’t panic. Reading the letter or listening to the message carefully will give you an idea of what the OSC is investigating, and what you are expected to do in response. Remember that the OSC is not your enemy. They are simply doing their job to ensure that PPPs are not being committed.
Contact a Federal Employment Lawyer
If you’re not sure what to do next, it’s wise to contact a federal employment lawyer. A qualified attorney can help you understand your legal rights and obligations and guide you through the OSC investigation process. They can also help you respond to the OSC in a way that protects your interests and avoid making any mistakes that can compromise your case.
Cooperate (But Don’t Volunteer Information)
If you are the subject of an OSC investigation, it’s important to cooperate with the agency. Provide the requested information and documentation, but don’t volunteer anything that’s not specifically requested. Your attorney can help you prepare a response that satisfies the OSC’s request without giving away any unnecessary information that can be used against you.
Prepare for an Adverse Action
If the OSC finds that a PPP has been committed, they may recommend disciplinary action against the employee or whistleblower. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s critical to have an experienced attorney who can help you navigate through the adverse action process. Your attorney can help you file an appeal, negotiate a settlement or take your case to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) or other legal avenues to contest the OSC’s decision.
Stay Focused on Your Work
Remember that an OSC investigation is not the end of the world. It’s easy to lose focus when you’re being investigated, but try to stay focused on your work. Keep meeting your deadlines, attending meetings, and completing your tasks as usual. An OSC investigation may be stressful, but it doesn’t have to derail your career.
If the OSC contacts you, it’s important to take it seriously but not panic. Stay calm and contact a federal employment attorney who can guide you through the investigation process, help you prepare a response, and protect your interests. Remember to cooperate with the OSC, but don’t volunteer any unnecessary information. If disciplinary action is recommended, your attorney can help you navigate the adverse action process. And most importantly, stay focused on your work. With the right legal counsel, you can successfully navigate an OSC investigation and achieve a satisfactory outcome.
Federal Employment Lawyers
If you receive an OSC contact, remain calm and take immediate action by consulting The Vaughn Law Firm, experienced federal employment lawyers. We specialize in guiding federal employees through the OSC investigation process, helping you prepare a strategic response, protecting your interests, and ensuring a focused approach to maintain your career trajectory. Contact The Vaughn Law Firm today for expert assistance in safeguarding your rights and successfully navigating through any OSC challenges that may arise. Reach out to schedule your consultation by calling 877-212-8089.
