Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch

The Women's Bar Association of the District of Columbia, in partnership with the American Constitution Society DC Lawyers Chapter and the Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association (MWELA), recently hosted a webinar with KCNF’s Elaine Fitch as the featured speaker. Elaine provided key insights into the legal landscape for terminated federal probationary employees. She covered the MSPB’s recent rulings, the impact of OSC complaints and leadership changes, and the role of unions and class action lawsuits in seeking broader relief. She also emphasized the importance of securing key documentation, including performance appraisals, SF-50s, and supervisor communications to support legal challenges. Watch the full webinar here: https://lnkd.in/eBHZ8WJa #FederalEmployees #FederalProbationaryEmployees #FederalWorkforce #EmploymentLaw

The KCNF team attended the Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association's annual conference last week. It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow employment attorneys, judges, and industry experts while engaging in insightful discussions on key topics in plaintiff-side employment law. ? A special congratulations to Steve Pershing, who was recognized as MWELA president-elect for a two-year term! ? Pictured: Keir Bickerstaffe, Briana Odom Imran, and Anna Kathryn Barry. ? #EmploymentLaw #MWELA

KCNF’s Elaine Fitch spoke with Law.com about the increasing challenges facing federal employees as widespread job cuts sweep through government agencies. To support employees during this uncertain time, KCNF has expanded access to information by sending email updates that outline legal options, directing employees to appropriate resources, and participating in podcasts and webinars to educate people on the latest developments. Read the article on Law.com here: https://lnkd.in/gHW8ipS5 Subscribe to our legal alerts here: https://lnkd.in/gvHB7pGx #FederalEmployees #FederalWorkers #Retaliation #EmploymentLaw #WorkersRights

KCNF partner Mary Kuntz recently appeared on the podcast Federal Drive with Thomas Temin to discuss a significant legal challenge involving former Bureau of Prisons Director Collette Peters. As a career Senior Executive Service (SES) official, Peters is appealing her termination before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). The case raises important questions about due process protections for federal employees. In the interview, Mary emphasized that career SES officials can only be removed for cause, such as misconduct or poor performance — none of which were cited in Peters’ dismissal. This case underscores the legal safeguards in place for career federal employees, particularly during presidential transitions. Listen to the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/gGuQ2iKS #FederalEmploymentLaw #MeritSystemsProtectionBoard #MSPB #EmploymentRights #FederalWorkers #FederalEmployees

We are very excited to have Briana join us!

KCNF’s Elaine Fitch will be speaking at this event on Feb. 26 from 12:00 – 1:00 ET. The quick primer will provide insights for federal probationary employees who have been fired or are facing uncertain employment situations. ? All are welcome to attend the free webinar. Registration information can be found here:?https://lnkd.in/e7RKGcfM

We’re excited to announce that Briana Odom Imran, a former attorney with the?U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission,?has joined?KCNF. Briana brings?extensive experience in employment law, having handled complex federal employee discrimination appeals and having advocated for foreign service employees in workplace disputes. She?will be an incredible asset to our team and clients. Please join us in welcoming Briana to KCNF! https://lnkd.in/gExDJbBg #Lawyers #EmploymentLaw #CivilRightsLaw #WorkplaceRights #EmploymentLitigation?

During Black History Month, we honor, reflect on, and celebrate the profound contributions of Black leaders, artists, and changemakers who have shaped our history and culture. Washington, D.C. offers countless opportunities to engage with Black history and culture, not just in February, but all year long. If you’re in the nation’s capital, here are some ways to explore, learn, and celebrate: Explore the Legacy of Black Broadway Walk through the historic Shaw neighborhood, visit the famed Howard Theatre Walk of Fame and take a Black Broadway walking tour to learn more about D.C.'s rich musical and cultural heritage. https://lnkd.in/gAiCDn5k Visit the I Have a Dream Marker at the Lincoln Memorial Climb the very steps where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington. https://lnkd.in/gK7q898v https://lnkd.in/g5dCyTjU Reflect at Black Lives Matter Plaza at 16th Street NW, near Lafayette Square This powerful landmark stands as a reminder of the continued fight for racial and social justice in America. https://lnkd.in/gbQFAuZg Experience the National Museum of African American History and Culture One of the Smithsonian’s most celebrated museums, this space showcases thousands of artifacts and immersive exhibits that tell the story of the African American experience. https://nmaahc.si.edu/ Celebrate Go-Go Music at the Go-Go Museum & Café (Opening Feb. 19, 2025) D.C.'s official music genre, Go-Go, gets its own dedicated space in Anacostia, a must-see for music lovers and history buffs alike. https://lnkd.in/giBvmjp5 #BlackHistoryMonth #WashingtonDC #CivilRights #BlackExcellence #HistoryMatters #BHM2025

Federal agencies have regulations they must follow when laying off employees. However, according to?Keir Bickerstaffe?in a recent article in?Bloomberg Law,?“It’s not readily apparent to us that the process and the regulations have been followed.”

KCNF is pleased to welcome?Keir Bickerstaffe?to the firm. A former?deputy associate solicitor with the U.S. Department of Labor, Keir brings?decades of experience?in employment law, civil rights litigation, and labor protections, making him a powerful advocate for workers facing discrimination, wage theft, and retaliation. Keir has spent his career fighting for workplace justice. His extensive regulatory expertise, policy acumen, and?litigation experience?give him a unique perspective on navigating complex employment disputes. We’re excited to have Keir on board as we continue our mission of protecting?workers' rights?and ensuring?fair treatment?in the workplace. Read more about Keir here?https://lnkd.in/g-evYSJw?and in Law360 here?https://lnkd.in/gEAVbKqp. #EmploymentLaw #CivilRights #WorkersRights #LawFirms #Lawyers