I went to Pines Federal because I am a firm believer in Google reviews. Pines had the highest I found and my gut instinct told me to give it a go. I am happy to say that they told me what they "could" do for me not like other that tell you what they "can't" do for you. Rus Wersing could not have been a better Point of Contact. She was on top of things and answered my questions every step of the way. My case went smoothly and quickly.
I highly recommend Pines Federal, and if I could give them an additional five stars I would. They are a very professional team that you "do" want on your side.

“Above and Beyond My Expectations”

Pines Federal flew in their “legal eagle” with Justin Schnitzer’s representation. Justin got me through an extremely rough period on my job. I was facing a wrongful demotion after a thirty-year career with the federal government. From the beginning, Justin was honest with me and his evaluation of my case was one-hundred percent correct. He represented me in ADR better than I could have imagined, he is brilliant and an expert negotiator. Within a short period of agreeing to represent me, Justin had a settlement letter in my hand from my employer. He went above and beyond my expectations to get me a settlement agreement that was favorable to me. I don’t know how I can ever thank Justin enough for having been my advocate. I am so grateful to have found Justin and would hire him again.

Could not have asked for better legal services. Professional, detail-oriented, and responsive. Thank you Pines Federal!

I’m happy I went to Pines Federal. There is a good sense of confidence knowing that they consider their clients needs first. There reputation is stellar for a reason. My consultation was analyzed honestly. Pines Federal’s team doesn’t make someone feel like their case is a shot in the dark. I Highly recommend them!

From the first time I met Mr. Eric Pines I felt like I was in good hands. He introduced me to Mr. Aaron Wersing who also worked for the firm and he won my case. I was never treated like a number. Thank you Mr. Wersing for having my back.

affirmed my faith in the legal field.

Compassionate and knowledgeable. Eric went above and beyond to understand my legal options, sought my best interest rather than seek pure financial interest, and provided me with different consulting options to suit my budgetary need. Great customer service that made a lasting impression on me. If you need legal counsel for federal matters, Pines Federal should be your first choice.

Don't go it alone. Pines Federal knows exactly what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. One of the best decisions I ever made. If you are not sure, give them a call. They are the best !!!

I solicited Eric Pines' help in a lawsuit/employment dispute with Houston VA hospital. He helped me navigate the maze of legal jargon and procedures. he was patient with me. He explained somethings a couple of times. He gave advise that was in my best interest. I recommend his firm to anyone who is not familiar with the law but needs a lawyer they can trust.

Having never been through the EEO process before, I found the entire process very daunting. Mr. Pines, Mr. Glazer and Mr. Goldenzweig were extremely honest, knowledgeable and professional throughout my entire ordeal, and I truly believe my case case would not have gone so well without their help. When you need the best, look no further.

I was stressed and my energy level was non-existent. Shoshana gave me accurate information upfront. I consulted with Eric and he went above and beyond within an hour. His ethics as a lawyer are impeccable. I wasn't given any false information or hope, previous law firms made me feel like currency. I left the consult feeling empowered and having the knowledge to make informed decisions. Most importantly, I didn't feel pressured to retained them. In conclusion, I would calls Pines Federal again without hesitation!

I am so happy I found Pines Federal. Mr. Rob Glazer, Mr. Eric Pines and all of the staff are the best of the best. They really care about you as person and a client. They helped me win my case and handled everything for me every step of the way. If you want to win your case I highly recommend Pines Federal.

Thank you,
Desiree G.

I could not have had a better experience. Russ handled my case and was patient and on top of important deadlines. I was very impressed with pines federal and the outcome of my case.

Eric Pines and his staff are amazing. When I had given up on resolution he kept going until the job was done. He gave me realistic expectations and everything he promised I received. I felt Eric took a personal interest in my case and was supportive through everything. Thank God for you and your firm.

After spending over 15 years working As Register Nurse and suffered from Brain Aneurysm, I was forced to face the fact that I could not continue. So, with the support of my Neurosurgeon I began researching various Internet sites along with OPM's web pages to educate myself on the process and procedures required to apply for FERS disability retirement. While the application process is very involved. I realized even with my medical background, it cannot be completed without professional help. Given my medical issues and circumstances, I decided the cost involved with obtaining top-notch help was well worth it and the payment plan they offer was great. I reasoned that the possible outcome of denial and the appeal process could cause financial losses much greater. While having professional support with the application is no guarantee of success, I wanted the best possible case, with the best possible chance for a favorable decision, as I could no longer continue working – and I feel strongly that retaining the support was crucial to obtaining OPM approval.

Rus Wersing and Mr Pine was my primary interface with Pines LLC, Ms. Rus, were immediately dedicated to building my case. Working through the lengthy Q&A process with Rus turned up details crucial to my application – details that I had completely forgotten about and in some cases even decided were unimportant. Fortunately for me, Rus saw the value of these details, and folded them into an incredibly powerful statement prepared for my physician to review and sign. This lengthy (nine pages, single spaced) statement was dead-on-target, and my doctor signed. Later, he commented to me about the quality and presentation method of this statement, saying, “it captured everything perfectly.” Rus was amazing.

I strongly recommend Pines, LLC, and their team of dedicated professionals. Their commitment to my disability retirement application made my case very strong. I credit them for my fast OPM approval.I soon founded out that the most crucial and vital part of my submission was providing the right information the first time and she was masterful. Without her there would be no success story for me, only gloom and doom. She and her entire staff/office were excellent throughout my journey with the maze of paperwork Her professionalism, ease of verbal communications we shared and serious care displayed towards my outcome were heartwarming. She always made herself available to me and for this I say thanks and she will be in my debt for life "

Justin Schnitzel was my Pines Federal Attorney and he masterfully dealt with some really very nasty and callous people at my agency. As a pro-se litigant - basically meaning I didn't have a lawyer - I had already gone to two prior mediations at which I was offered absolutely nothing. I was treated like a criminal when all I did was get sick and request a reasonable accommodation for which I was fired. This was my last chance. My case was complex and I knew going to trial was a gamble. Had I lost at my third mediation, it would have been disastrous for my family especially my special needs child. Justin was very professional. Never raised his voice, never lost his cool. But in a room full of people, whenever he opened his mouth, everyone else shut theirs. Even the administrative judge was highly impressed. Justin has what we call in the military - Command Presence. With Justin representing me, the agency treated me with respect and dignity. More importantly, the agency gave me much more money than I expected, my job and my life back!

I cannot say enough great things about Pines Federal! This entire team went above and beyond to support me in my legal fight on short notice. They know the federal law and they are BRILLIANT! Thank you Stephen Goldenzweig, you are simply AWESOME!
If you need legal help with a federal government issue, call this team today!

I really appreciated the advice and counsel offered by Justin and Eric because they actually appeared to care about me and my specific legal issue, and they offered what I considered to be sound advice that no other attorney did or would give me. Pines even went as far as stating while they'd be willing to represent me, and take my money, it would end up costing me a lot of money when I don't really need a lawyer to get the results I was looking for. No other lawyer offered the same advice, instead these other firms asked for thousands of dollars in retainer fees up front, but these other lawyers did not offer sound advice, they only seemed interested in getting money up front. Thank you Pines Federal for putting my mind at ease.

I worked for Pines Federal, briefly. I can honestly say, if you are looking for a Federal Employee Law Firm, THIS would be it! You will be well taken care of. From seeing what goes on behind the scenes, they genuinely care for their clients. They track and follow up with you every step of the way. I would highly recommend Eric Pines, such a nice, honest and caring attorney. He knows how to run a law firm.

Pines Federal was instrumental in winning my federal employment case. They were extremely professional, caring and forthright in handling my case and dealing with the organization. I would HIGHLY recommend this firm to anyone having employment problems with the federal govt. This is all that they do and they are the best, period.

I was a former USPS employee seeking Restoration. I was charged 5000 and later told I don't have a case. My Attorney did not understand the Statutes and how they applied to me. I went to a Mediation and my Attorney let me become "Mediation Roadkill". I had a case no one could figure it out.

Simply AMAZING service. Usually, law firms can be “distant” or make you feel like just another client. Not Pines Federal. From the billing department to Eric Pines himself, the service provided went above and beyond. I highly recommend Mr. Santerreli to assist you with your disability retirement. I had shopped around before choosing them and am so glad I did not pick another firm. Stop looking and stop here! Thanks guys and gals for service excellence.

RETALIATION\RETRIBUTION

If that has happened to you, you must read...

Unfortunately, when you exercise your rights, and participate in the EEO process you also open yourself up for Retaliation from individuals within the Agency.

Fortunately, there's the Law Office of Eric Pines, LLC to call on for help. I work for the Department of Veterans Affairs, In 2014 I contacted Eric Pines Law for assistance with an possible discrimination issue. Thanks to the knowledge and professionalism of Eric Pines Attorneys, they were able to secure a reasonable and satisfactory settlement.

Upon my return to duty, I immediately noticed that management continued to treat me differently than other staff. So, I calmly began to take notes and recap in email, situations that I considered out of the ordinary. Ultimately, I gathered and compiled enough information to file a claim for Retribution due to my prior EEO case and subsequent settlement.

I RAN back to Eric Pines Law! I was assigned Attorney Joshua Kahn to handle my complaint. I found Josh Kahn to be very knowledgeable in Federal Employment Law, with a long impressive background to back it up. Josh is patient, and he knows how to extract useful\pertinent information to present on your behalf to maximize the outcome. As an result of Attorney Kahn's work, I was once again able to secure a satisfactory settlement with the Agency. I received a promotion, my attorney fees paid, and derogatory actions removed from my Official Personnel File (OPF).

If you require legal employment representation, you really should look no more....

Milton

I want to give a great big thank you to the firm of Pines Federal, they came through in my support after my Union refused to help me when filing an EEO against my agency.
Thank you to Mr. Glazer and his associates, we were able to meet the goals that I set to meet when confronting management. Pines Federal receives my highest recommendation and I will not hesitate to call them again if legal assistance is needed.

My experience with Pines Federal was very positive. From the partner of the Law firm, Eric Pines to the secretary’s. Pines Law firm made me feel very comfortable.The folks there have so much knowledge and experience in dealing with Federal retirement. I was privilege to work with Rus Wersing, whom guided me through every step of the way. Mrs. Wersing was compassionate, knowledgeable and patient through the whole process. I would recommend this Law Firm to any federal employee who is seeking to start the process or seeking reconsideration of retirement disability. Believe me I shopped around this Law firm was the most honest, genuine Law firm out there for federal employees seeking federal retirement. They also specialize in other areas of federal employnment cases.

I could not be more pleased with their service. They have been extremely helpful. Like a close knit family, in fighting my case !!!!!!!!!

Very professional, positive results. This was a very long and frustrating case, due to some hiccups within OPM. Glad to have had this team, thank you Tzirel.

I highly recommend the Law Offices of Eric L. Pines. Eric and his team did an outstanding job, representing me with my discrimination, disability, and workers compensation cases.

I had been working as a triage nurse at a Military Treatment Facility for over five years when my job-related symptoms started to worsen. When I addressed my issues with my employer, instead of accommodating me, they sought ways to remove me from my job. When I contacted my union representative, she quickly referred me to Pines Federal. This was the beginning of a very pleasant and professional relationship with Eric and his team, as they advocated for me throughout the process. From beginning to end, Eric was always available to guide me and intervene whenever I needed assistance and reassurance. My employer soon realized that I wasn’t alone, and that lessened any attempt to take full advantage of me. I was treated as family from the very beginning and I felt cared for. It was never too late to call Eric. He was even available via cell phone when necessary. Because of their positive results-oriented approach, they were able to help me initially obtain Federal Workers' Compensation, later obtain my OPM Disability Retirement, and positively resolving my EEO case. Thank you Eric, Scott, Aaron, Gavriel, Cyril, and the rest of the team!

Pines Federal is the best decision you can make! After battling my case for years, and getting nowhere, I made the best decision for my life, family, and career when choosing Pines Federal as my representation. After contacting Pines Federal my case was resolved within 60 days!

Pines Federal expert skills and professionalism has allowed me to be fully compensated. I never thought that this day would have come! Although I cant go into details, I highly recommend Pines Federal when seeking representation that will get results!

Pines Federal is the best decision one can make when dealing with federal government cases. Pines Federal expert skills and experience, with EEO, MSPB, military and federal cases, are phenomenal! If you have experienced harassment, wrongful termination, or discrimination Pines Federal is the best option for you!

Please do not waste time and money with attorneys that lack experience when facing these types of cases! Pines Federal gets results and relieves the stress and burden of your case! When your organization, attorneys, and leadership has failed you call Pines Federal!

Pines Federal is key to restoring your rights! Pines Federal Has the ability get you fully reinstated with back pay and compensated for the hardships that you have faced! Let Pines Federal lift your burden!

Pines Federal took on the "Good Ole Boy" mentality of an organization that started three decades ago. I was impressed with the essence of team-work and willingness to listen to the client. Each case has its own dynamic so it takes quick wit and keen understanding of Labor Laws.

Very dedicated team! I highly recommend to any federal employee. Pines Federal is very knowledgeable and helped me resolve an employment issue which resulted in an outcome I couldn't have achieved otherwise. I'm so happy I hired them to represent me!

Pines Federal is the law firm you want in your corner when facing adverse action as a fed employee. They will give you an honest and realistic opinion on the merits of your case and will not just tell you what you want to hear to get your money. I was pleased with the settlement Eric and his team negotiated In my case.

My father-in-law used Pines Federal for his case with OWCP. Eric Pines was helpful and responded quickly to his needs. This firm in located in Texas, and we live in Georgia. We were able to complete the process via conference calls and emails without any trouble. If I was faced with this type of Federal case in the future, I would use Pines Federal again.

After spending five years working in a cyberspace engineering position and struggling with progressively worsening spine and chronic pain conditions, I was forced to face the fact that I could not continue. So, with the support of my long-time primary care physician, I began researching various Internet sites along with OPM's web pages to educate myself on the process and procedures required to apply for FERS disability retirement. While the application process is very involved and carries built-in pitfalls, it can be completed without professional help if one is so inclined. However, given my medical issues and circumstances, I decided the cost involved with obtaining top-notch help was well worth it. I reasoned that the possible outcome of denial and the appeal process could cause financial losses much greater. While having professional support with the application is no guarantee of success, I wanted the best possible case, with the best possible chance for a favorable decision, as I could no longer continue working – and I feel strongly that retaining the support was crucial to obtaining OPM approval.

Eric Pines and my primary interface with Pines LLC, Ms. Cyril Dubin, were immediately dedicated to building my case. Working through the lengthy Q&A process with Cyril turned up details crucial to my application – details that I had completely forgotten about and in some cases even decided were unimportant. Fortunately for me, Cyril saw the value of these details, and folded them into an incredibly powerful statement prepared for my physician to review and sign. This lengthy (nine pages, single spaced) statement was dead-on-target, and my doctor signed it without changing a single word. Later, he commented to me about the quality and presentation method of this statement, saying, “it captured everything perfectly.”

I strongly recommend Pines, LLC, and their team of dedicated professionals. Their commitment to my disability retirement application made my case very strong. I credit them for my fast OPM approval.

I complained to the EEO about a reasonable accommodation denial and within days, the Agency leveled discipline. I spoke to several attorneys who didn't speak plain English. So I took to the internet.

I found the Eric L. Pines Group; spoke to Aaron Wersing and was amazed by how pleasant he was. I felt safe instantly. He didn't pressure me, but recommended a 2 hour consultation with Attorney Pines.

I went with his recommendation and I was hooked right away. Eric Pines truthful, to-the-point, respectful and by the end of the consultation, offered me a solution to my issue and advised me to make a decision; no pressure. I'm glad I did because after 4 mediations and a year 1/2 of torment, the Agency and I have finally reached a settlement.

Eric Pines is a skillful attorney who knows his craft well. He dealt with some very difficult personalities, but remained professional and objective the whole time. He also has members in his Firm who are like geniuses, in my opinion. Scott Santarelli, and Eric Pines are who I dealt with most of the time.

They both returned calls and emails promptly. Sometimes, I would receive a reply or call the same day. Scott is quick-witted; compassionate and consoling. He and Eric always provided me with a resolution. Their expertise and people skills set the tone for interacting in adverse situations like mine, which I believe were second-to-none.

Although I spent money, it was money well spent to protect the investment I made in my Federal career. The price was reasonable, and the Firm actually looked for ways for me save money! I'm happy I found and hired this Firm to help me though all this.

My experience with the Pines Federal team was fantastic.

Very soon after I initiated an EEO complaint I became certain that I would need help navigating the long and stressful road that unfurled ahead of me.

After extensively poring over legal websites and attorney reviews I chose the Pines Federal team to represent me.

Best. Decision. EVER!

The entire team was courteous, warm, and welcoming. They really treated me like a part of their family. Even though I had an overwhelming abundance of anxiety about going through a legal proceeding, Mr. Pines' humor and expert advice helped get me through the EEO process until it was successfully resolved. I always felt that the Pines Federal team had my best interests at heart and always treated me with kindness and dignity.

When going to court, the truth alone is not enough. I was one day away, from losing a case and contacted Pines Federal. Facing a deposition, without legal representation, I was shooting a hail mary and scored with them. Not only did they tell my side of the story, I was awarded Exactly what I asked of them in our agreement. I would probably be homeless if I hadn't found them. They do Quality work and get Quality results. I recommend them Highly.

If you are looking for an attorney who knows the federal service, contact Attorney Pines. I normally do not post review online but I am compelled with Attorney Pines' service. He is an honest down to earth attorney who would analyze your case and tell you the way it is and what options are available. If your case does not stand or he knows it does not stand, he will honestly tell you to not hire an attorney even though he is an attorney. He speaks to you easily and knows your case very thoroughly. You will receive his full attention. The time and money paid for consultation is well worth it!

5.0 star rating

7/20/2015

Recently I found myself in need of legal help with an EEO case I filed due to disability discrimination at my federal job.
I carefully researched legal firms that represent federal employees and was impressed with the reviews I saw of Eric Pines legal office and website. I enlisted his help with my case and also with my disability retirement application. Eric has been wonderful to work with and his knowledge and expertise far exceeded my expectations. He successfully won my case with results far exceeding what I anticipated.
But, the most important element of my experience was how caring and dedicated he and his staff were to me and my case. He was always available when I needed him and promptly responded to my countless questions and emails throughout the process. He was genuinely more concerned with me than he was of any financial gain he could have gained from representing me. I felt as though I was his only client and he was devoted to helping me win my case.
Scott Santerelli has also been wonderful in all of his assistance and support while helping me apply for FERS disability retirement.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND any federal employee in need of legal assistance to contact Mr. Pines and seek his representation. You will be so pleased you did. Eric is a Rockstar in his field!