Hatch Act | Federal Employee Lawyers | Berry & Berry, PLLC

Hatch Act Lawyers

Our lawyers defend federal employees under investigation by the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), Inspector General or federal agencies regarding Hatch Act issues. The Hatch Act is a federal law that prohibits civilian federal government employees of the Executive Branch from engaging in certain political activity such as influencing elections, participating in or managing political campaigns, holding public office or running for office as a member of a political party. The Hatch Act was intended to prohibit civil servants from engaging in partisan political activity. The Hatch Act is applied significantly to curtail political activities by federal employees and supervisors while on duty.

In addition, the Hatch Act can also apply to certain state, local or District of Columbia government employees whose principal employment is in connection with an activity that is financed in whole or in part by federal loans or grants. The Hatch Act was recently amended in legislation as the Hatch Act Modernization Act of 2012 (HAMA), permitting other state and local employees, even if they are otherwise covered by Hatch Act restrictions, to be free under federal law to run for partisan office unless the employee’s salaries are paid for completely by federal loans or grants. The HAMA was signed into law in December 2012.

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) generally investigates Hatch Act violations. If the Hatch Act violation is not egregious enough to warrant prosecution, the OSC may issue a letter of warning to the employee involved. If the OSC charges an employee with a Hatch Act violation, the charges are filed with and adjudicated before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). In addition, after investigating an alleged Hatch Act violation, the OSC may seek disciplinary action against an employee before the MSPB. Effective January 27, 2013, the penalties for federal government employees can include removal from federal service, reduction in grade, debarment from federal employment for a period not to exceed five (5) years, suspension, reprimand, or a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000.

Our Testimonials

I had an exceptional experience working with Berry & Berry. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to their clients. Kim Berry and Aidan Connor were consistently responsive, thoughtful, and thorough in every aspect of their work. What stood out most was their integrity and dedication to delivering high-quality legal services. It’s clear they take great pride in their work and truly care about the people they assist. I’m grateful for all their help and would highly recommend Berry & Berry to anyone in need of knowledgeable and trustworthy legal counsel.

K. D.

I would highly recommend this firm. Mr. Berry quickly grasped the details of my case, and worked diligently towards a favorable resolution. I really appreciated his expertise and concern for my situation.

John

Berry and Berry was a great firm to work with, and specfically Attorney Melissa Watkins was FANTASTIC! She was very knowledgeable, experienced, and hard working! She was able to quickly assess my case which was previously mishandled by a horrendous law firm and did outstanding work to reach a resolution in the matter. I would not hesitate for a second to rehire Melissa should I need legal representation for the same or similar issue.

Melissa truly went above and beyond on my case. She was patient and answered all questions using her vast experience. She very accurately predicted future events and provided excellent guidance which matched what was, or was about to occur. Her communication was equally excellent, returning questions and calls at her first opportunity to respond to frequent changes and information. Thank you Melissa and Berry&Berry!

Michael

A caring, skilled and relentless team that won’t quit until they get the results you seek. Highly recommend.

Mike C.

I cannot say enough great things about Berry & Berry. I reached out to them regarding my security clearance, and I knew I was in good hands from the beginning. Both John Berry and Todd Hull took the time to truly understand my situation and provided clear, actionable advice throughout the entire process. The entire firm was always prompt with communication, incredibly knowledgeable about the law, and showed a level of professionalism that put me at ease.

Not only was John Berry diligent in handling every detail, but he also worked very hard to ensure a positive outcome. He kept me informed at every step, explaining complex processes and legal terms in ways I could easily understand, which made a stressful situation feel much more manageable.

What truly stood out to me was his compassion and dedication. John showed genuine care about my situation and went above and beyond to provide support.

If you are looking for a firm that is not only incredibly skilled but also trustworthy, responsive, and compassionate, I highly recommend Berry & Berry. I would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.

Ryan H.

When I started my litigation against my employer I was unable to find representation in my local area as I worked for a government institution. I was desperate having never been in a situation of this magnitude. Upon calling the firm the staff listened and guided me to one of the most effective attorney I could ever imagine. The dignity afforded me and her extensive knowledge of federal law was unparalleled. Ms. Watkins is a GEM. She was upfront forthcoming and forthright. When she surmised and articulated salient facts, she just Got It. I would hire HER again. If you find yourself in litigation with the US Government, Department of Defense she is the attorney to consult with.

Althea R.

“Highly recommend Berry & Berry. Kimberly Berry picked up a tremendous mess (from previous attorney) of a case that was about to expire. She not only picked it up but revived it and was able to arrange a settlement after many months of stagnation. I can’t thank her enough for her professionalism, tenacity and timeliness throughout. Thank you Berry & Berry for your EXCELLENT service!”

Anders J.

“John Berry and Aidan Connor! Security Clearance GRANTED! IF I COULD GIVE AN INFINITE AMOUNT OF STARS I WOULD. If moving mountains was a thing that men could actually do, they can do it! My situation was definitely difficult and one for the books. I mean a checkered past for sure. Recovered from it and actually walk the walk. Just the same, very CHECKERED! They are professionals, they are knowledgeable, and they really took the time and care my case needed. I was going to be denied and I truly believe if I had not put them on the job I would be! I am cleared NEVER TO WALK THAT OLD PAST AGAIN but these guys made it happen, truly eternally grateful! Praise God and KEEP MOVING MOUNTAINS Gentlemen!”

David H.

“Attorney Todd Hull and his team at Berry & Berry were fantastic. I had an issue with my security clearance that was favorably and quickly adjudicated. Todd walked me through the process, set reasonable expectations, told me what documents to request and was often the voice of reason when I was understandably a little angry sometimes. More importantly, he took the draft response I had written and all the documents I provided and turned it into a crushing response that blew the government’s case to pieces. He told me to expect a response in 3-4 months and that I would probably have to go to court to get a fair shake and hope for a favorable outcome. Two weeks after submitting my response, I received word that my clearance had been reinstated. This would not have happened without his excellent work. I also think he was extremely fair about billing. I feel he produced a product that required more hours than he billed. He’s a great attorney and I’m so glad I found him.”

Alex S.

“Absolute strongest recommendation. John and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. He knew the appeals process backwards and forwards, he prepped me for what last ahead at each milestone and was especially thorough.”

Mark O.

“Outstanding legal representation. Highly recommended. John Berry and his team are first class professionals. Melissa Watkins was great!”

Rahim N.

“Berry & Berry is a great firm. Kimberly was very knowledgeable, detailed, professional, and kept me in the loop of the process. I would recommend this firm without hesitation.”

Lakina B.

“I would definitely recommend Berry& Berry. My case was a success thanks to Kimberly she was great. They made me feel very comfortable.”

Kevin L.

I had an exceptional experience working with Berry & Berry. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to their clients. Kim Berry and Aidan Connor were consistently responsive, thoughtful, and thorough in every aspect of their work. What stood out most was their integrity and dedication to delivering high-quality legal services. It’s clear they take great pride in their work and truly care about the people they assist. I’m grateful for all their help and would highly recommend Berry & Berry to anyone in need of knowledgeable and trustworthy legal counsel.

K. D.

I would highly recommend this firm. Mr. Berry quickly grasped the details of my case, and worked diligently towards a favorable resolution. I really appreciated his expertise and concern for my situation.

John

Berry and Berry was a great firm to work with, and specfically Attorney Melissa Watkins was FANTASTIC! She was very knowledgeable, experienced, and hard working! She was able to quickly assess my case which was previously mishandled by a horrendous law firm and did outstanding work to reach a resolution in the matter. I would not hesitate for a second to rehire Melissa should I need legal representation for the same or similar issue.

Melissa truly went above and beyond on my case. She was patient and answered all questions using her vast experience. She very accurately predicted future events and provided excellent guidance which matched what was, or was about to occur. Her communication was equally excellent, returning questions and calls at her first opportunity to respond to frequent changes and information. Thank you Melissa and Berry&Berry!

Michael

A caring, skilled and relentless team that won’t quit until they get the results you seek. Highly recommend.

Mike C.

I cannot say enough great things about Berry & Berry. I reached out to them regarding my security clearance, and I knew I was in good hands from the beginning. Both John Berry and Todd Hull took the time to truly understand my situation and provided clear, actionable advice throughout the entire process. The entire firm was always prompt with communication, incredibly knowledgeable about the law, and showed a level of professionalism that put me at ease.

Not only was John Berry diligent in handling every detail, but he also worked very hard to ensure a positive outcome. He kept me informed at every step, explaining complex processes and legal terms in ways I could easily understand, which made a stressful situation feel much more manageable.

What truly stood out to me was his compassion and dedication. John showed genuine care about my situation and went above and beyond to provide support.

If you are looking for a firm that is not only incredibly skilled but also trustworthy, responsive, and compassionate, I highly recommend Berry & Berry. I would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.

Ryan H.

When I started my litigation against my employer I was unable to find representation in my local area as I worked for a government institution. I was desperate having never been in a situation of this magnitude. Upon calling the firm the staff listened and guided me to one of the most effective attorney I could ever imagine. The dignity afforded me and her extensive knowledge of federal law was unparalleled. Ms. Watkins is a GEM. She was upfront forthcoming and forthright. When she surmised and articulated salient facts, she just Got It. I would hire HER again. If you find yourself in litigation with the US Government, Department of Defense she is the attorney to consult with.

Althea R.

“Highly recommend Berry & Berry. Kimberly Berry picked up a tremendous mess (from previous attorney) of a case that was about to expire. She not only picked it up but revived it and was able to arrange a settlement after many months of stagnation. I can’t thank her enough for her professionalism, tenacity and timeliness throughout. Thank you Berry & Berry for your EXCELLENT service!”

Anders J.

“John Berry and Aidan Connor! Security Clearance GRANTED! IF I COULD GIVE AN INFINITE AMOUNT OF STARS I WOULD. If moving mountains was a thing that men could actually do, they can do it! My situation was definitely difficult and one for the books. I mean a checkered past for sure. Recovered from it and actually walk the walk. Just the same, very CHECKERED! They are professionals, they are knowledgeable, and they really took the time and care my case needed. I was going to be denied and I truly believe if I had not put them on the job I would be! I am cleared NEVER TO WALK THAT OLD PAST AGAIN but these guys made it happen, truly eternally grateful! Praise God and KEEP MOVING MOUNTAINS Gentlemen!”

David H.

“Attorney Todd Hull and his team at Berry & Berry were fantastic. I had an issue with my security clearance that was favorably and quickly adjudicated. Todd walked me through the process, set reasonable expectations, told me what documents to request and was often the voice of reason when I was understandably a little angry sometimes. More importantly, he took the draft response I had written and all the documents I provided and turned it into a crushing response that blew the government’s case to pieces. He told me to expect a response in 3-4 months and that I would probably have to go to court to get a fair shake and hope for a favorable outcome. Two weeks after submitting my response, I received word that my clearance had been reinstated. This would not have happened without his excellent work. I also think he was extremely fair about billing. I feel he produced a product that required more hours than he billed. He’s a great attorney and I’m so glad I found him.”

Alex S.

“Absolute strongest recommendation. John and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. He knew the appeals process backwards and forwards, he prepped me for what last ahead at each milestone and was especially thorough.”

Mark O.

“Outstanding legal representation. Highly recommended. John Berry and his team are first class professionals. Melissa Watkins was great!”

Rahim N.

“Berry & Berry is a great firm. Kimberly was very knowledgeable, detailed, professional, and kept me in the loop of the process. I would recommend this firm without hesitation.”

Lakina B.

“I would definitely recommend Berry& Berry. My case was a success thanks to Kimberly she was great. They made me feel very comfortable.”

Kevin L.

I had an exceptional experience working with Berry & Berry. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to their clients. Kim Berry and Aidan Connor were consistently responsive, thoughtful, and thorough in every aspect of their work. What stood out most was their integrity and dedication to delivering high-quality legal services. It’s clear they take great pride in their work and truly care about the people they assist. I’m grateful for all their help and would highly recommend Berry & Berry to anyone in need of knowledgeable and trustworthy legal counsel.

K. D.

I would highly recommend this firm. Mr. Berry quickly grasped the details of my case, and worked diligently towards a favorable resolution. I really appreciated his expertise and concern for my situation.

John

Berry and Berry was a great firm to work with, and specfically Attorney Melissa Watkins was FANTASTIC! She was very knowledgeable, experienced, and hard working! She was able to quickly assess my case which was previously mishandled by a horrendous law firm and did outstanding work to reach a resolution in the matter. I would not hesitate for a second to rehire Melissa should I need legal representation for the same or similar issue.

Melissa truly went above and beyond on my case. She was patient and answered all questions using her vast experience. She very accurately predicted future events and provided excellent guidance which matched what was, or was about to occur. Her communication was equally excellent, returning questions and calls at her first opportunity to respond to frequent changes and information. Thank you Melissa and Berry&Berry!

Michael

A caring, skilled and relentless team that won’t quit until they get the results you seek. Highly recommend.

Mike C.

I cannot say enough great things about Berry & Berry. I reached out to them regarding my security clearance, and I knew I was in good hands from the beginning. Both John Berry and Todd Hull took the time to truly understand my situation and provided clear, actionable advice throughout the entire process. The entire firm was always prompt with communication, incredibly knowledgeable about the law, and showed a level of professionalism that put me at ease.

Not only was John Berry diligent in handling every detail, but he also worked very hard to ensure a positive outcome. He kept me informed at every step, explaining complex processes and legal terms in ways I could easily understand, which made a stressful situation feel much more manageable.

What truly stood out to me was his compassion and dedication. John showed genuine care about my situation and went above and beyond to provide support.

If you are looking for a firm that is not only incredibly skilled but also trustworthy, responsive, and compassionate, I highly recommend Berry & Berry. I would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.

Ryan H.

When I started my litigation against my employer I was unable to find representation in my local area as I worked for a government institution. I was desperate having never been in a situation of this magnitude. Upon calling the firm the staff listened and guided me to one of the most effective attorney I could ever imagine. The dignity afforded me and her extensive knowledge of federal law was unparalleled. Ms. Watkins is a GEM. She was upfront forthcoming and forthright. When she surmised and articulated salient facts, she just Got It. I would hire HER again. If you find yourself in litigation with the US Government, Department of Defense she is the attorney to consult with.

Althea R.

“Highly recommend Berry & Berry. Kimberly Berry picked up a tremendous mess (from previous attorney) of a case that was about to expire. She not only picked it up but revived it and was able to arrange a settlement after many months of stagnation. I can’t thank her enough for her professionalism, tenacity and timeliness throughout. Thank you Berry & Berry for your EXCELLENT service!”

Anders J.

“John Berry and Aidan Connor! Security Clearance GRANTED! IF I COULD GIVE AN INFINITE AMOUNT OF STARS I WOULD. If moving mountains was a thing that men could actually do, they can do it! My situation was definitely difficult and one for the books. I mean a checkered past for sure. Recovered from it and actually walk the walk. Just the same, very CHECKERED! They are professionals, they are knowledgeable, and they really took the time and care my case needed. I was going to be denied and I truly believe if I had not put them on the job I would be! I am cleared NEVER TO WALK THAT OLD PAST AGAIN but these guys made it happen, truly eternally grateful! Praise God and KEEP MOVING MOUNTAINS Gentlemen!”

David H.

“Attorney Todd Hull and his team at Berry & Berry were fantastic. I had an issue with my security clearance that was favorably and quickly adjudicated. Todd walked me through the process, set reasonable expectations, told me what documents to request and was often the voice of reason when I was understandably a little angry sometimes. More importantly, he took the draft response I had written and all the documents I provided and turned it into a crushing response that blew the government’s case to pieces. He told me to expect a response in 3-4 months and that I would probably have to go to court to get a fair shake and hope for a favorable outcome. Two weeks after submitting my response, I received word that my clearance had been reinstated. This would not have happened without his excellent work. I also think he was extremely fair about billing. I feel he produced a product that required more hours than he billed. He’s a great attorney and I’m so glad I found him.”

Alex S.

“Absolute strongest recommendation. John and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. He knew the appeals process backwards and forwards, he prepped me for what last ahead at each milestone and was especially thorough.”

Mark O.

“Outstanding legal representation. Highly recommended. John Berry and his team are first class professionals. Melissa Watkins was great!”

Rahim N.

“Berry & Berry is a great firm. Kimberly was very knowledgeable, detailed, professional, and kept me in the loop of the process. I would recommend this firm without hesitation.”

Lakina B.

“I would definitely recommend Berry& Berry. My case was a success thanks to Kimberly she was great. They made me feel very comfortable.”

Kevin L.

I had an exceptional experience working with Berry & Berry. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to their clients. Kim Berry and Aidan Connor were consistently responsive, thoughtful, and thorough in every aspect of their work. What stood out most was their integrity and dedication to delivering high-quality legal services. It’s clear they take great pride in their work and truly care about the people they assist. I’m grateful for all their help and would highly recommend Berry & Berry to anyone in need of knowledgeable and trustworthy legal counsel.

K. D.

I would highly recommend this firm. Mr. Berry quickly grasped the details of my case, and worked diligently towards a favorable resolution. I really appreciated his expertise and concern for my situation.

John

Berry and Berry was a great firm to work with, and specfically Attorney Melissa Watkins was FANTASTIC! She was very knowledgeable, experienced, and hard working! She was able to quickly assess my case which was previously mishandled by a horrendous law firm and did outstanding work to reach a resolution in the matter. I would not hesitate for a second to rehire Melissa should I need legal representation for the same or similar issue.

Melissa truly went above and beyond on my case. She was patient and answered all questions using her vast experience. She very accurately predicted future events and provided excellent guidance which matched what was, or was about to occur. Her communication was equally excellent, returning questions and calls at her first opportunity to respond to frequent changes and information. Thank you Melissa and Berry&Berry!

Michael

A caring, skilled and relentless team that won’t quit until they get the results you seek. Highly recommend.

Mike C.

I cannot say enough great things about Berry & Berry. I reached out to them regarding my security clearance, and I knew I was in good hands from the beginning. Both John Berry and Todd Hull took the time to truly understand my situation and provided clear, actionable advice throughout the entire process. The entire firm was always prompt with communication, incredibly knowledgeable about the law, and showed a level of professionalism that put me at ease.

Not only was John Berry diligent in handling every detail, but he also worked very hard to ensure a positive outcome. He kept me informed at every step, explaining complex processes and legal terms in ways I could easily understand, which made a stressful situation feel much more manageable.

What truly stood out to me was his compassion and dedication. John showed genuine care about my situation and went above and beyond to provide support.

If you are looking for a firm that is not only incredibly skilled but also trustworthy, responsive, and compassionate, I highly recommend Berry & Berry. I would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.

Ryan H.

When I started my litigation against my employer I was unable to find representation in my local area as I worked for a government institution. I was desperate having never been in a situation of this magnitude. Upon calling the firm the staff listened and guided me to one of the most effective attorney I could ever imagine. The dignity afforded me and her extensive knowledge of federal law was unparalleled. Ms. Watkins is a GEM. She was upfront forthcoming and forthright. When she surmised and articulated salient facts, she just Got It. I would hire HER again. If you find yourself in litigation with the US Government, Department of Defense she is the attorney to consult with.

Althea R.

“Highly recommend Berry & Berry. Kimberly Berry picked up a tremendous mess (from previous attorney) of a case that was about to expire. She not only picked it up but revived it and was able to arrange a settlement after many months of stagnation. I can’t thank her enough for her professionalism, tenacity and timeliness throughout. Thank you Berry & Berry for your EXCELLENT service!”

Anders J.

“John Berry and Aidan Connor! Security Clearance GRANTED! IF I COULD GIVE AN INFINITE AMOUNT OF STARS I WOULD. If moving mountains was a thing that men could actually do, they can do it! My situation was definitely difficult and one for the books. I mean a checkered past for sure. Recovered from it and actually walk the walk. Just the same, very CHECKERED! They are professionals, they are knowledgeable, and they really took the time and care my case needed. I was going to be denied and I truly believe if I had not put them on the job I would be! I am cleared NEVER TO WALK THAT OLD PAST AGAIN but these guys made it happen, truly eternally grateful! Praise God and KEEP MOVING MOUNTAINS Gentlemen!”

David H.

“Attorney Todd Hull and his team at Berry & Berry were fantastic. I had an issue with my security clearance that was favorably and quickly adjudicated. Todd walked me through the process, set reasonable expectations, told me what documents to request and was often the voice of reason when I was understandably a little angry sometimes. More importantly, he took the draft response I had written and all the documents I provided and turned it into a crushing response that blew the government’s case to pieces. He told me to expect a response in 3-4 months and that I would probably have to go to court to get a fair shake and hope for a favorable outcome. Two weeks after submitting my response, I received word that my clearance had been reinstated. This would not have happened without his excellent work. I also think he was extremely fair about billing. I feel he produced a product that required more hours than he billed. He’s a great attorney and I’m so glad I found him.”

Alex S.

“Absolute strongest recommendation. John and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. He knew the appeals process backwards and forwards, he prepped me for what last ahead at each milestone and was especially thorough.”

Mark O.

“Outstanding legal representation. Highly recommended. John Berry and his team are first class professionals. Melissa Watkins was great!”

Rahim N.

“Berry & Berry is a great firm. Kimberly was very knowledgeable, detailed, professional, and kept me in the loop of the process. I would recommend this firm without hesitation.”

Lakina B.

“I would definitely recommend Berry& Berry. My case was a success thanks to Kimberly she was great. They made me feel very comfortable.”

Kevin L.

If you wish to explore legal representation, please call our office or use this form to inquire about our consultation process.

Call Us Today!703-668-0070

Office Location

Plaza America
11700 Plaza America Drive
Suite 305
Reston, VA 20190

Fax703-668-0071

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