Criminal Defense (Federal and State)

A person charged with a criminal offense enters the world of police, courts, prosecutors and judges. Success depends not only on the skills of your lawyer, but also on your lawyer's ability to effectively navigate through the criminal justice system. Because a person's freedom is at stake, there is no substitute for an experienced criminal defense attorney who will navigate the rough waters of the criminal justice system.

FECA/OWCP. Federal civilian employees who are injured while working on the job for an agency of the United States are entitled to benefits under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, Office Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP). OWCP claims can be complicated, time consuming and frustrating for the claimant. A failure to follow the rules or to submit required evidence can result in a complete denial of benefits.

OPM/MSPB. Disability retirement is a right. A employee who belongs to either the Civil Service Retirement system (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), after meeting certain requirements, can collect a portion of his salary if a medical condition prevents him from continuing work in a government job. It is not a handout, but a right for which you have already paid through contributions to your retirement fund. The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) also hears appeals of personnel actions, such as removals, suspensions, and demotions. Employee complaints unders the Whistleblower Protection Act, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act are also heard by the Board.

EEO. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the Federal Agency in charge of processing complaints of employment discrimination and employment harassment complaints which violated Federal Law. The EEOC handles complaints based on age, race, gender, national origin, religion, sexual harrassment, sexual orientation, and reprisal. Any individual who believes he or she has been discriminated against in employment may file an administrative charge with the EEOC. Before an employee can file a lawsuit in a Federal or State Court, he must exhaust all administrative remedies by first filing a complaint with the EEOC. The EEOC records the complaint, sends a notice to the employer, and issues a "right to sue" letter to the employee. Without "a right to sue" letter, the employee cannot file a lawsuit in Federal or State court.

Federal Tort Claims

Have you, or a member of your family, suffered an injury due to medical negligence by military or government health care providers? If you are a dependent of someone on active duty in our armed services, or a military retiree, you may have a claim against the government under the Federal Tort Claims Act. If the negligent act occurred while you were stationed oversees, you may seek a remedy under the Military Claims Act.

Whether you're starting a business for the first time, or you've been in existence for awhile, I can help you form your company and analyze the tax-sensitive benefits and pitfalls among alternative business structures, including the use of limited liability companies, corporations, and partnerships.

Family Law

I offer clients a wide range of services in the family law area. In addition to divorce, adoptions, and parentage cases, a large part of this practice area involves tax planning for divorce and separation as well as structuring property settlements, maintenance, or support agreements. I also draft and negotiate premarital agreements delineating the rights of couples in the event of divorce or death.

Wills, Trusts, Probate, & Estate Planning

I offer a wide variety of estate and tax planning counseling services. In addition to wills and various types of trusts, I can help you with a power of attorney, Advance Health Care Directives, and all other documents needed as part of an estate plan. I also offer complete legal services subsequent to the death of a client. These services include the preparation of all tax returns, probate and trust administration and advising clients with respect to their rights as surviving spouse, trust beneficiary or as a fiduciary of an estate or trust.