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Legal Help

Expert Representation

OPEA offers its members the peace of mind of having an experienced, professional staff available to answer their questions about their employment rights. OPEA members have the Association’s Advocacy Services staff in their corner from the beginning. Fighting accusations of wrongdoing usually costs from $3,000 to $8,000. But for OPEA members, this cost is included in their membership dues. In addition to representing members in crisis, the Advocacy Services staff answers thousands of requests from members each year. OPEA believes in preventing work-related problems by providing members with the information they need to protect their rights. Solid, real-world experience allows the Advocacy services staff to help with:
Investigations

Many employees are shocked when they find out they are being investigated by their agency. They have many questions about their rights and their obligations to the agency, and OPEA is there to answer their questions and help as needed.

Complaints

State employees often face issues that could adversely affect their employment. Many of these issues – promotions, classification, discipline, leave, discrimination and other matters – are addressed through the internal agency complaint process, which can be intimidating for state employees. The OPEA Advocacy Services staff walks Association members through the process and helps them file their complaint. OPEA has also produced a complaint manual to give you a step-by-step guide through the process.

Adverse Actions

Suspensions, demotions and terminations can leave state employees in dire financial straits. Those who have been members of OPEA for at least 180 days are eligible to have the OPEA staff help them file their appeal with the Merit Protection Commission. If the Appeals Review Board approves your case, you are eligible to receive free representation before the Oklahoma Merit Protection Commission for appeals concerning suspension, termination or demotion.