Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch

Join KCNF partner Elisabeth Baker-Pham on Tuesday, March 18, from 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT for the live event, "PVQ Unlocked: Navigating Personnel Vetting with a Security Clearance Lawyer," hosted by ClearanceJobs. Lisa will break down the Personnel Vetting Questionnaire (PVQ), the eventual replacement for the SF-86 and what these changes mean for security clearance applicants. While not yet implemented, the PVQ is designed to streamline the vetting process, and Lisa will offer key insights to help applicants prepare. Register here: https://lnkd.in/dYhW4R9G #SecurityClearance #EmploymentLaw #PVQ #SF86 #ClearanceJobs

This #WomensHistoryMonth, we celebrate the legacy of June Kalijarvi, our firm founder and a fearless advocate who paved the way for equality in the workplace. In 1975, June founded KCNF with the belief that everyone deserves equal opportunity employment and a work environment free from harassment and discrimination. Her tenacity and passion for justice were evident in cases like Herrman v. Coleman, one of the first successful Title VII lawsuits against the federal government. With an unwavering commitment to fairness, she set a standard that continues to inspire us today. June’s influence extended beyond the courtroom. She trained attorneys, shaped legal discourse, and left an indelible mark on our community. As we honor the trailblazing women who drive change, we are proud to carry forward her mission at KCNF. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for workplace rights with the same strength and dedication that defines June Kalijarvi’s legacy. #WHM2025 #WomenInLaw #Trailblazer #EmploymentLaw

In today's digital landscape, social media is a powerful tool, but for federal employees, it can also present significant risks. Forbes recently featured Elisabeth Baker-Pham’s insights on why security clearance holders should be especially cautious when engaging in political discussions online. “From a clearance perspective, it is never a good idea to voice strong political opinions on social media because the ordinary risks of social media engagement are heightened,” she explained. She warns that online debates can quickly lead to statements that may be misconstrued or regretted, particularly when touching on hot button topics like foreign policy, immigration, diversity efforts, and national security. Even seemingly harmless conversations can have unintended consequences for those holding security clearances. Read the full article in Forbes here: https://lnkd.in/eePrsYUC #EmploymentLaw #SecurityClearance #SocialMediaRisks #FederalEmployees

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?