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Servicemember and Veterans Rights in Federal Employment

We are a Law Firm Who Knows and Understands the Federal Workplace, committed to representing federal employees who have experienced unlawful discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or unfair disciplinary actions

Gary Levine
Gary Levine, Founder

Veterans’ Employment Rights — Federal Employment: Hiring Preferences and Legal Protections

Veterans bring invaluable experience and dedication to federal service. Under federal law, they are entitled to specific hiring preferences and workplace protections. Whether you’re transitioning from military service or already working in a federal role, understanding these rights is essential. Gary, a veteran with 28 years of military service, is committed to helping fellow veterans navigate federal employment law.

Hiring Authorities & Preferences

Veterans’ Preference (5 U.S.C. §§ 2108, 3309, 3310, 3313) provides eligible veterans extra points in competitive hiring:

5-Point Preference — For service during certain periods or campaigns.

10-Point Preference — For service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, and certain eligible family members.

Note: Not all positions are subject to Veterans’ Preference.

Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) — Allows eligible veterans to apply for certain jobs otherwise limited to current/former federal employees.

Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) — A noncompetitive hiring authority for certain veterans, allowing quicker entry into positions up to GS-11 with potential for conversion to career status after two years.

Workplace Protections While Employed

USERRA — The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (38 U.S.C. §§ 4301–4335) protects returning service members with rights to:

  • Prompt reinstatement to the job you would have attained (“escalator principle”)
  • Preservation of seniority, status, and benefits
  • Anti-discrimination protections based on military service

If you believe your rights as a veteran have been violated—whether through hiring discrimination, denial of preference, or workplace mistreatment—contact our firm today. We’re here to advocate for those who’ve served.