Northern Virginia has a workforce unlike most of the country. Federal agencies, defense contractors, and the tech employers along the Dulles corridor sit side by side, so a firing in Tysons or Reston can raise questions under Virginia law, federal law, and, for government workers, a separate administrative system with its own deadlines. Choosing a lawyer who understands that overlap matters. Below are five firms serving Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, and Prince William counties, beginning with Mundaca Law, a firm that handles employment, business, and federal employee matters across the DC metro area.
- Mundaca Law
- Berry & Berry, PLLC
- Cantrell Schuette
- Potomac Legal Group
- Hogan & Pritchard, PLLC
What makes an employment lawyer a good fit in Northern Virginia?
The right lawyer is one who regularly handles your type of problem in the forum where it will actually be decided. A private sector discrimination claim usually starts with the EEOC or the Virginia Office of Civil Rights. A federal employee’s removal may go to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), the independent agency that hears appeals of serious federal personnel actions. Cases that reach federal court in this region often land in the Eastern District of Virginia, whose Alexandria Division is known for moving cases quickly, sometimes called the “rocket docket.” A lawyer used to that pace can make a real difference in how prepared you are.
Mundaca Law Firm Profiles
Mundaca Law
Mundaca Law is led by Francisco E. Mundaca, Esq., Founding Partner, and represents clients in employment, business, and federal employee matters throughout the DMV. For Northern Virginia workers, that combination is useful because so many local jobs blur the line between private employment and government service.
The firm’s employment practice covers issues such as:
- Workplace discrimination and harassment
- Retaliation and whistleblower concerns
- Wrongful termination
- Severance agreement review and negotiation
- Non-compete and restrictive covenant questions
Federal employees can turn to the firm for help with EEO complaints, disciplinary actions, and MSPB appeals. Because the firm also advises businesses, it brings an understanding of how employers evaluate disputes, which can help when negotiating an exit package or settlement. Every case is different, and no attorney can promise a particular outcome, but an early consultation can clarify your options and deadlines.
Berry & Berry is a law firm that works with clients on employment-related legal matters in the Washington, D.C. region. Anyone considering the firm should review its website and schedule a consultation to learn whether it handles their specific issue.
Cantrell Schuette
Cantrell Schuette is a law firm whose practice includes employment law matters. Prospective clients should contact the firm directly to understand its focus and approach.
Potomac Legal Group
Potomac Legal Group is a law firm serving clients in the greater Washington area, with a practice that includes employment matters. A conversation with the firm is the best way to learn whether it fits your situation.
Hogan & Pritchard is a law firm that serves clients in the region on a range of legal matters. Those interested should reach out to the firm to confirm the areas it handles.
How long do you have to file an employment claim in Virginia?
Deadlines are short, and missing one can end a claim before it starts. Under the Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA), a discrimination complaint generally must be filed with the Office of Civil Rights within 300 days of the discriminatory act. Federal Title VII charges filed with the EEOC in Virginia also generally carry a 300 day limit.
Federal employees face tighter windows. EEOC regulations (29 C.F.R. § 1614.105) require contacting an agency EEO counselor within 45 days of the incident, and most MSPB appeals must be filed within 30 days of the effective date of the action. If you think you have a claim, the calendar is already running.
Does Virginia law limit non-compete agreements?
Yes. Virginia prohibits employers from enforcing non-compete agreements against low-wage employees, and a 2025 amendment extended that protection to employees classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act, meaning those entitled to overtime pay. Employees earning above those thresholds may still be bound by a reasonable non-compete, so having a lawyer read the agreement before you sign or resign is worthwhile.
How much does an employment lawyer cost in Northern Virginia?
Fee arrangements vary by firm and case type. Employee-side discrimination and wrongful termination cases are often handled on contingency, where the lawyer receives a percentage of any recovery, commonly in the range of one-third to 40 percent. Severance negotiations, contract reviews, and federal administrative matters are more often billed hourly or at a flat fee. Ask for the fee structure in writing at your first meeting, including who pays costs like filing fees and depositions.
Why start your search with Mundaca Law?
Mundaca Law handles employment disputes, business counsel, and federal employee cases, which reflects the mix of employers found across Northern Virginia. If your situation touches more than one of those areas, a firm familiar with all three can help you see the full picture before choosing a path.
A workplace dispute can affect your income, your career, and your peace of mind all at once. The strongest first step is to write down what happened, keep copies of relevant documents, note the dates, and speak with an employment attorney before any filing deadline passes. A short consultation now can protect options you may not realize you have.
This article is attorney advertising and is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.