Federal Agency Representation: Navigating OSC, DOL, and Inspector General Complaints

Congruence Law, P.C. Advocates for Whistleblowers Before Government Agencies That Investigate Retaliation

Whistleblowers who experience retaliation often find themselves in a maze of federal complaint systems. From the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) to the Department of Labor (DOL), to various Inspectors General, each agency has its own rules, procedures, and deadlines. Filing with the wrong office—or the right one at the wrong time—can cost you your case.

At Congruence Law, P.C., we help whistleblowers navigate federal protections, prepare persuasive filings, and hold agencies accountable for enforcing the law. Whether you are a federal employee, contractor, or private-sector worker protected by a federal statute, we’ll help you choose the right path and follow it effectively.

Which Agencies Handle Whistleblower Complaints?

U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC). For federal employees reporting violations under the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA). OSC investigates prohibited personnel practices, including retaliation for protected disclosures.

Department of Labor (DOL), OSHA Whistleblower Protection Program. For private-sector and federal contractors under laws such as Sarbanes-Oxley, Dodd-Frank, the Clean Air Act, and 20+ others. OSHA receives and investigates whistleblower complaints under tight time limits.

Agency Offices of Inspector General (OIG). For whistleblowers reporting waste, fraud, or abuse within federal agencies or contractor programs. OIGs investigate underlying misconduct and sometimes refer retaliation claims to OSC or other bodies.

Special Statutory Programs. Certain industries have unique channels, such as:

• SEC Whistleblower Office (for securities violations)

• Department of Veterans Affairs OAWP (for VA employees)

• Intelligence Community Whistleblower Protection Act (for national security disclosures)

What We Do at Congruence Law, P.C.

We represent whistleblowers before federal agencies from start to finish:

• Determine the appropriate agency and legal framework

• Draft and file complaints under tight statutory deadlines

• Respond to agency investigations, requests, and findings

• Appeal dismissals or adverse findings through internal review or litigation

• Coordinate filings when multiple agencies have jurisdiction

• Challenge agency inaction or delays when your rights are at stake

We ensure you preserve your eligibility for remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, compensatory damages, and attorney’s fees.

Why Agency Representation Matters

Federal whistleblower systems are complex and inconsistent. Agencies may:

• Dismiss complaints on technicalities

• Impose burdensome proof standards

• Take months or years to investigate

• Overlook key facts or misunderstand retaliation

We help you craft a compelling narrative supported by law, evidence, and precedent — and hold agencies accountable when they fail to protect you.

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Filing with the wrong agency

• Missing short filing deadlines (as little as 30 or 90 days in some cases)

• Failing to include sufficient factual detail or legal framing

• Giving inconsistent statements or omitting context during interviews

• Assuming the agency will advocate on your behalf (they often don’t)

Why Choose Congruence Law, P.C.

We understand how federal whistleblower systems really work. Whether you're facing reprisal for reporting fraud on a defense contract, corruption in a federal agency, or violations of securities or environmental laws, we will help you navigate the right process and fight for your rights.

If you’re considering filing a whistleblower complaint or need help with an ongoing agency investigation, contact us today.

whistleblower@congruencelaw.com or at 202-630-8141

Let us guide you through the process — and make your voice heard where it matters.