When your federal career is on the line, experience and focus matter. Our practice is dedicated to representing employees across the United States in termination and suspension appeals before the MSPB.
Eligibility Matters
Not every employment action qualifies for review before the Merit Systems Protection Board. Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward protecting your federal career.

A removal from federal service can carry serious and lasting consequences for your career and future employment. If you have been terminated, you may have the right to challenge the agency’s action before the MSPB. Timely filing and careful preparation are essential to protect your rights.

Suspensions of 14 days or more are often appealable to the MSPB and can impact your income, record, and advancement opportunities. If you are facing a qualifying suspension, you may be able to challenge the agency’s action. Proper review and strategic preparation are critical.

A reduction in grade or pay can significantly affect your professional standing and long-term career growth. In certain situations, demotions qualify for review before the MSPB. A structured evaluation helps determine whether the agency’s action can be formally challenged.

Certain additional personnel actions may be appealable depending on your position, tenure, and specific circumstances. If you are unsure whether your case qualifies, a detailed assessment can help clarify your rights and available options.
Understanding the appeal process can reduce uncertainty and help you make informed decisions. While every case is different, most MSPB appeals follow a structured path with strict deadlines and procedural requirements.
We begin by reviewing the agency’s action, your employment status, and the timeline involved. This step determines whether your case qualifies and identifies key issues that may affect the appeal.
MSPB appeals must typically be filed within 30 days of the effective date of the action. Preparing a properly structured filing is critical to preserving your rights and presenting your position clearly.
Once filed, the case moves into a formal process that may include written submissions, document exchange, and legal arguments. Careful preparation at this stage is essential.
Some cases proceed to a hearing before an administrative judge, while others may resolve earlier depending on the circumstances. Remote hearings are common, allowing representation nationwide.
MSPB appeals involve strict deadlines, procedural requirements, and detailed legal standards. Federal employment cases are highly specialized, and careful preparation at every stage can significantly impact the outcome.
Most appeals must be filed within 30 days. Missing a deadline can result in dismissal, regardless of the merits.
MSPB cases follow specific rules that differ from standard court proceedings. Understanding these procedures is critical.
Agencies must meet legal standards to sustain their actions. Identifying weaknesses requires detailed review and preparation.
Remote hearings and electronic filings allow federal employees across the country to pursue appeals effectively.
Attorney Profile
Steve Newman is a dedicated attorney specializing in Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) appeals for federal employees nationwide. With extensive experience handling termination, suspension, and demotion cases, he provides clear guidance through the complex federal employment process.
His approach is structured, strategic, and focused on protecting your rights while ensuring strict deadlines and procedural requirements are met. Every case is handled personally, with careful attention to detail and a commitment to delivering professional, results-driven representation.
Below are answers to common questions from federal employees regarding MSPB appeals.
In most cases, you must file your appeal within 30 calendar days of the effective date of the action. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your rights.
The MSPB typically has jurisdiction over:
Removals (terminations)
Suspensions of 14 days or more
Demotions
Certain furloughs
Other specific adverse actions
Each case is evaluated individually.
No. We represent federal employees nationwide. Many MSPB hearings are conducted remotely, allowing us to assist clients regardless of location.
MSPB appeals are often handled on a flat-fee basis depending on complexity and stage. Typical representation ranges between $4,000 and $8,500. Fee structure is discussed clearly before engagement.
We review your submission and determine whether your case qualifies for MSPB review. If appropriate, we will contact you to discuss next steps, timeline, and representation options.
Below are real experiences from federal employees who trusted our firm to handle their MSPB
appeals with professionalism, clarity, and dedicated representation.