Firm News Archives

Air Force Civilian Paid Significant Multi Six Figure Settlement and Six Figure Attorneys’ Fees to Resolve Discrimination Case

Posted on April 18, 2025April 18, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Secures Just Resolution Following EEOC Sign-Off

Washington, D.C. – April 18, 2025 — A federal civilian employee of the United States Air Force has reached a confidential settlement in a workplace discrimination case after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) approved the agreement and formally dismissed the complaint with prejudice on April 16, 2025.

The resolution followed a thorough and iterative review process by the EEOC administrative judge, who requested updates to the agreement language before ultimately granting approval. The complainant, an African American senior-ranking civilian employee, had alleged a hostile and discriminatory work environment stemming from repeated incidents involving her immediate supervisor. Claims included harassment on the basis of race and age, bullying, intimidation, and the creation of a toxic work environment.

Annie Morgan, Senior Military Attorney with the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, represented the complainant throughout the proceedings. “This settlement represents a meaningful conclusion to a deeply distressing chapter in our client’s federal service,” said Morgan. “She showed incredible courage by coming forward and asserting her rights. We are proud to have helped her obtain justice and preserve her professional reputation.”

The terms of the agreement include both a six-figure monetary compensation including reimbursement of attorney fees and restoration by various specific administrative remedies to be applied by the Air Force. In addition, the agreement includes provisions that support transparency and post-resolution compliance monitoring, ensuring the complainant’s dignity and rights are fully restored.

While the exact financial terms of the settlement are confidential, the judge has issued a formal dismissal order, closing the case and granting the parties’ joint motion for resolution.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
Based in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC provides experienced legal representation in military, federal employment, and national security matters. The firm’s attorneys are nationally recognized for their advocacy on behalf of service members, federal employees, and civilians navigating complex legal disputes within government agencies.

Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street SE, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. If you or someone you know is facing injustice or abuse of authority within the federal government or military, consult a qualified attorney experienced in UCMJ and federal employment law.

Legal Victory for USPHS Commander Denied DOJ Representation

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Becky Haugen

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 14, 2025) – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a Washington, D.C.-based military and federal employment law firm, announces the successful resolution of a significant case involving a United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Commander who was personally sued for actions taken in the course of his federal duties.

The Commander had signed a lease agreement for a warehouse in furtherance of a government mission. Despite the agency’s approval and continued payment of the lease by the government for over two years, the agency later vacated the property and ceased payments. The property owner filed a personal lawsuit against the Commander in state court.

When the Commander requested legal representation from the Department of Justice (DOJ) under 28 C.F.R. § 50.15, the request was never acted upon. Without the representation to which he was entitled, the Commander was left to defend himself in court and was ultimately held liable.

With legal representation by Dylan Thayer of the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, the Commander filed suit in the United States Court of Federal Claims, asserting the government’s failure to follow required procedures. The case was ultimately resolved through a negotiated settlement, and the matter was dismissed with prejudice, bringing long-overdue closure for the officer and reinforcing the protections owed to federal personnel.

“This case reflects the real-world consequences federal employees face when agencies don’t fulfill their legal obligations,” said attorney Dylan Thayer. “We’re honored to have helped this Commander secure justice.”

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, located in Washington, D.C., defends military service members and federal employees nationwide in both civil and criminal matters. The firm has decades of experience handling courts-martial, administrative boards, security clearance cases, and high-stakes federal litigation. Its attorneys are committed to safeguarding the rights of those who serve.

Contact Us:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street SE, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20003
202-546-9575
MilitaryDefense.com

Disclaimer:
This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Each case is unique and results may vary depending on specific facts and legal circumstances.

Over 800 Law Firms Join Forces to Defend Constitutional Advocacy Rights in DOJ Retaliation Case Against Jenner & Block

Posted on April 11, 2025 by Becky Haugen

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon stands in solidarity with 806 other firms nationwide in a sweeping amicus brief filed today in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The brief supports Jenner & Block LLP in its legal challenge against a March 25 Executive Order issued by the current Administration, which imposes punitive sanctions against the firm for its client advocacy work.

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, a Washington, D.C.-based litigation firm focused on military and federal law, joined this powerful coalition of law firms who argue the Executive Order represents a “grave threat to the rule of law and our constitutional system of governance”.

“The retaliation we are witnessing against Jenner & Block—and previously against Perkins Coie, WilmerHale, and others—is nothing less than an abuse of executive power aimed at silencing lawful advocacy,” said David P. Sheldon, founder of the firm. “We are proud to stand with hundreds of our colleagues to affirm that the independence of the bar must not be undermined by political agendas.”

The amicus brief, officially titled Brief of Amici Curiae of 807 Law Firms in Support of Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment and for Declaratory and Permanent Injunctive Relief, underscores that the Executive Order:

Revokes security clearances from law firm personnel,
Denies access to federal facilities and contracts,
Allegedly punishes the firm for pro bono activities that “undermine justice and the interests of the United States”.

Lawyers from across the political and professional spectrum warn that such actions will chill protected First Amendment activities and erode public access to legal representation.

“We’ve reached a constitutional crossroads,” Sheldon said. “If we allow government retribution against law firms based on who they represent, we dismantle the very foundation of equal justice under law.”

This brief follows similar filings in the Perkins Coie and WilmerHale cases and reflects growing concern in the legal community over executive orders targeting law firms based on their client portfolios.

Contact:

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
100 M Street SE, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

Legal Disclaimer:
This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Individuals or organizations seeking legal representation should contact a qualified attorney.

Honoring Service: Legal Team Wins Medical Retirement for Dedicated USPHS Officer

Posted on April 4, 2025April 4, 2025 by Becky Haugen

April 4, 2025

Senior Public Health Service Officer Secures Medical Retirement with Legal Representation from the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A senior officer in the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps has successfully obtained a medical retirement following an in-depth review by the Medical Review Board and final approval by the Office of the Surgeon General. The officer was represented by Annie Morgan, Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC.

The officer served the nation with distinction for more than a decade, including frontline deployments during public health emergencies. Despite a history of exceptional service, the officer developed service-connected medical conditions that rendered continued service untenable. After a thorough review, the Medical Review Board recommended permanent medical retirement, which was approved with an effective retirement date.

Annie Morgan, the officer’s legal representative, praised the outcome:

“This result reflects both the strength of our client’s record and the importance of advocating for the rights of officers who can no longer serve due to medical conditions that they incurred while in service. We’re proud to stand beside those who’ve sacrificed their health in service to this country.”

This case marks yet another success for the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, which is nationally recognized for representing USPHS members, service members, officers, and federal employees in complex legal and administrative matters, including medical retirement, disability evaluation, courts-martial, and correction of military records.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

Located in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a premier military law firm dedicated to defending the rights of U.S. service members and federal employees across all branches and uniformed services. The firm specializes in military justice, administrative law, disability and retirement proceedings, and appeals before military and federal courts. Led by founding attorney David P. Sheldon and supported by a team of seasoned litigators, the firm brings decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Contact:

Law Offices David P. Sheldon, PLLC
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Individuals facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military and Federal law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Federal Court Rejects Army’s Denial of Reservist’s Application for Retirement Benefits

Posted on April 3, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Federal Court Rejects Army’s Denial of Reservist’s Application for Retirement Benefits

Federal Judge Finds Army’s Decision Arbitrary, Siding with Plaintiff Represented by Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

WASHINGTON, D.C. — April 3, 2025 — A federal court has sided with a retired Army Reserve officer in her challenge to the Army’s decision to separate her just four months shy of qualifying for military retirement. The case, brought under the Administrative Procedure Act, was remanded for further proceedings after U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan ruled that the Army’s reasoning for denying retirement benefits was “arbitrary and capricious.”

The plaintiff, a decorated Lieutenant Colonel with nearly 18 years of honorable service, had sought a modest extension of her service to reach the 20-year retirement threshold. Although her original position was deemed “overstaffed,” she successfully pursued a transfer to an understaffed Civil Affairs unit only to be discharged days before the transfer was finalized.

The Army Board for Correction of Military Records unanimously recommended correcting her records to reflect 20 years of service and to award retroactive retirement pay. But in a move the court called confusing and unsupported, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army overruled that recommendation in a single paragraph. The court determined that the Army’s rejection lacked any meaningful explanation and misunderstood key facts in the case.

“This case isn’t just about one soldier, it’s about fairness and accountability in how the Army treats its own,” said Dylan Thayer, the plaintiff’s attorney and partner at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, a D.C.-based firm known for championing military rights. “We’re proud to fight for service members who’ve earned the benefits they were promised.”

The court’s decision sends the matter back to the Army for further review, giving the plaintiff a renewed chance to secure the retirement benefits she should have rightfully received.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
Based in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is one of the nation’s premier military law firms. With a track record of defending the rights of service members across all branches, the firm handles courts-martial, correction of military records, medical retirement claims, and constitutional rights cases. Visit www.militarydefense.com for more information.

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Secures Disability and Retirement Benefits in Medical Evaluation Board Determination

Posted on March 31, 2025April 1, 2025 by Becky Haugen

Washington, DC — April 1, 2025 — The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon announces a successful challenge to a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) determination on behalf of a Commissioned Corps Officer. Following submission of an Officer Response Form requesting a Full & Fair Hearing with the Medical Appeals Board, the USPHS found the officer unfit for duty, not due to his misconduct, but due to his service-connected disability. This allows him to earn his rightfully owned retirement benefits and corresponding VA benefits.

“When military service results in a disability, which prevents a service-member from finishing their career, they are entitled to compensation for that disability and to the retirement benefits they have rightfully earned,” said Senior Military Defense Attorney Annie Morgan. “We’re proud to have secured this fitness‑for‑duty determination, ensuring our client will have the resources – both financial and medical – to properly treat his service-connected disability moving forward.”

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a nationally recognized firm specializing in military and federal employment law. With decades of combined experience, the firm advocates for servicemembers, veterans, and federal employees facing administrative injustices, ensuring their rights are protected and their records accurately reflect their service. Known for its commitment to integrity, personalized client service, and tenacious representation, the firm has successfully secured corrections of military records, restoration of benefits, and vindication of career reputations.

Federal Court Rules in Favor of Army Reservist, Remanding Her Application to Secure Retirement Benefits in the Rank of Lieutenant Colonel

Posted on March 26, 2025 by Becky Haugen

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 26, 2025 — The United States District Court for the District of Columbia has granted summary judgment to a Lieutenant Colonel in her lawsuit challenging the Army’s denial of her Mandatory Removal Date (MRD) extension, remanding the case for further proceedings to correct her military records and secure retroactive retirement benefits.

The LtCol was involuntarily separated from the Army Reserve on October 31, 2015, four months short of the eighteen‑year service requirement for non‑regular retirement pay, despite applying for an MRD extension and being selected for transfer into an understaffed Army specialty. After the Army Board for Correction of Military Records recommended granting her relief, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army overturned that recommendation without a reasoned explanation, prompting the LtCol to appeal under the Administrative Procedure Act.

“Today’s decision underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the military’s personnel processes,” said Dylan Thayer of the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon in Washington, DC. “The LtCol dedicated nearly two decades of service to our country and was unjustly denied the retirement benefits she earned. We look forward to finally achieving the correction she deserves.”

Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Files Key Legal Motion in Military Defense Case

Posted on March 19, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is pleased to share an important legal update regarding a recent filing in a military defense case. Led by attorney Dylan Thayer, our firm has submitted a critical motion in the United States Court of Appeal for the District of Columbia Circuit on behalf of a dedicated service member in the United States Army. This motion seeks to overturn a wrongful conviction that threatens both the career and reputation of a decorated officer, underscoring our firm’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for those who serve in the armed forces.

Legal Strategy and Advocacy

The motion, filed in a high-stakes military law matter, presents compelling arguments that challenge procedural inconsistencies, evidentiary issues, and violations of due process that have unfairly impacted our client, a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) with over 15 years of honorable service. This case involves allegations that were based on flawed investigative procedures, raising significant concerns about the fairness of the military justice process.

Attorney Dylan Thayer, an experienced advocate in military defense law, crafted a well-researched and forceful legal argument addressing key issues related to military regulations and procedural fairness. The motion highlights due process violations and improper handling of exculpatory evidence that could have significantly altered the outcome of the original proceedings.

“This filing is a testament to our firm’s dedication to fighting for service members’ rights,” said Thayer. “The stakes in this case are high—our client’s career, military benefits, and lifelong reputation are on the line. We take immense pride in providing strong, strategic legal representation to ensure that justice is upheld.”

Commitment to Military Defense

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon has built a reputation as a leading firm in military law, representing service members across all branches of the military. Based in Washington, DC, our team is known for its expertise in courts-martial appeals, discharge upgrades, security clearance matters, and military administrative proceedings. Our attorneys bring decades of experience to the table, providing clients with top-tier legal advocacy in complex military cases.

This latest filing reflects our ongoing commitment to defending those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. We will continue to monitor this case closely and provide updates as developments unfold.

For more information about our legal services or to schedule a consultation, visit militarydefense.com or contact our office directly 202-546-9575.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
Located in Washington, DC, the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a premier military defense law firm dedicated to representing service members in a wide range of legal matters. With a proven track record of success, we are committed to protecting the rights of those who serve. Learn more at militarydefense.com.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this press release is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC Clarifies Immunity of U.S. Public Health Service Officers from Personal Liability

Posted on March 18, 2025March 25, 2025 by Becky Haugen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC Clarifies Immunity of U.S. Public Health Service Officers from Personal Liability

Washington, D.C. – March 18, 2025 – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a leading firm specializing in military and federal employment law, reaffirms that United States Public Health Service (PHS) officers are immune from personal liability for their official actions. Read the Ruling.

A recent inquiry posed the question of whether PHS officers need to obtain personal insurance for their official acts. The answer is a definitive no. The Supreme Court decision in Castaneda v. Hui, 599 U.S. 799 (2010) established that PHS officers, like our client a named Defendant in the case, are shielded from personal lawsuits under the Federal law.

In this landmark ruling, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing for a unanimous Court, made it clear that 42 U.S.C. § 233(a) expressly provides that the FTCA is the exclusive remedy for claims related to constitutional violations committed by PHS officers while acting within the scope of their official duties. The ruling precludes Bivens actions against individual officers, ensuring their legal protection in the performance of their critical public health responsibilities.

“This decision underscores the legal protections in place for PHS officers, reinforcing that personal liability is not a concern when they act within their official scope of duty,” said David P. Sheldon, Managing Partner at the firm. “Our firm is dedicated to defending the rights of service members and federal employees, ensuring that legal protections are properly understood and upheld.”

For more information about the legal rights of PHS officers or other federal employees, contact the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC at (202) 546-9575 or visit www.militarydefense.com.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC—headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC provides premier legal representation for military personnel, federal employees, and public service officers in a wide range of cases, including administrative actions, courts-martial, appeals, and federal employment law. With years of expertise, the firm is a trusted advocate for those serving in uniform and beyond.

Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

Disclaimer: