Testimonials

Mr. Pines is a consummate professional… Mr. Pines always treated me with respect and kindness and you can tell he is a deeply empathetic person. He was always prompt in responding to my emails or phone calls and essentially held my hand through the entire process. I would strongly recommend him to any person.

Jessica

Categories: English

"Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC helped me to successfully resolve an employment matter"

Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC helped me to successfully resolve an employment matter that helped me to regain my career with The VA. The law group has demonstrated sophisticated knowledge of Federal government intricacies. They are the perfect group for government workers. They are the Dream Team, doing the hard work so I could concentrate on doing my job. They were thorough, yet quick to come to MY desired resolution. I strongly recommend Eric, Steven and Aaron. Thank you guys.

Cynthia

"Mr. Pines has assisted me on various legal matters"

Mr. Pines has assisted me on various legal matters and he has always maintained his professionalism and his passion when doing so. I would strongly recommend him to potential clients.

James

"I come from a family of lawyers and legal experts, and I work often with attorneys."

I come from a family of lawyers and legal experts, and I work often with attorneys. Stephen Goldenzweig is the best lawyer I have ever worked with. He saved my Federal Career. He was honest, genuine, and respectful. He helped me in a very complex legal circumstance, guiding me kindly through a tumultuous process. He is incredibly smart and has superior knowledge of Federal Law. In law, however, sometimes superior legal knowledge is not enough. Many times just as important is the layer’s and Firm’s reputation of integrity in the legal community. Such reputation will be known by Federal Agency Counsel. It is with this reputation of integrity that I believe Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC excels beyond all other federal firms. When a firm has an outstanding legal reputation for honesty as well as aggressive client representation, the opportunity for compromise and agreement with Agency Counsel increases. Thus, costly litigation can be sometimes be avoided simply by associating with a firm that has a superior reputation and strong working relationships in the legal community. Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC is definitely such a Firm. I could tell in my communications with Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC that they had honest and trust-based relationships with Agency Counsel. Indeed, I felt that there was great respect on both sides. The process was surprisingly professional and collegiate. While I initially was aggravated and wanted to fight, Mr. Goldenzeig steered me toward the much more sensible resolution – one where both sides found contentment. That is a rare quality, as the Firm could have made more money if a different direction had been taken. Mr. Goldenzeig had my bests interests – not his firm’s financial interests – at heart. In the end, such personal and human interest is all a client can pray for in an attorney. I give my highest and strongest recommendation for Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. The Firm cannot guarantee you a positive or favorable outcome, but I can guarantee you with great confidence they can provide you with the best possible chance for such outcome.

Client

"This is my first time in my life to reach out for legal help."

This is my first time in my life to reach out for legal help. I called his office and talked to his staff explaining my tight deadline. His staff who are caring set me up with a consultation right away with Eric. I explained my case and he was upfront with me of not being a medical attorney. I had already heard a lot of great things about him from my coworkers so I hired him. Very grateful and could have not done this without his tremendous help and knowledge. My experience working long distance; Eric is: hands on with emails, phone calls, updates, questions, faxes, and drafts to review; concerned with how situations are worded in truth; narrow down the unnecessary; explains the why and why not to; listens to what I had to say when it was difficult to express how and why I perform my work duties; took my input to paper making my work understandable; truthful about the cost at beginning and along the way; addressed all my concerns up to the very last minute of meeting the deadline by editing and making many last minute changes until I felt ok with it. Looking forward to telling Eric good news. He is a lifesaver. Thank you and grateful for you and all your great caring staff.

Judy

"I was extremely happy with the outcome of my case."

I was extremely happy with the outcome of my case. It was not just the end result but how I was treated the entire time I was his client. I was treated with respect, my case was handled completely on my behalf and I did not have to have any communications with the federal agency. This was important to me and the attorneys understood the importance of this. Hiring the Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC was the best decision I made.

Joy

"I had a reasonable accommodation request with my agency"

I had a reasonable accommodation request with my agency that was spiraling into something much more leaving me scared and not knowing where to go. I had a consultation with a Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC attorney and had almost all of my questions answered and a clear path to follow to get resolution of my request. It took a while, but finally after heeding the advice of my consultation, my agency met my reasonable accommodation request and settled with me to give me thousands of dollars in annual leave restoration, paid for my doctors fees and even paid for my consultation fees from Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. Even if they hadn’t, it was well worth the money to seek professional advice. Everything was professional and I didn’t get crazy expectations but sound advice, which I appreciated very much. Would definitely recommend if you have any work issues and work for the Federal Government.

William

"The federal employee retirement application process is a maze"

The federal employee retirement application process is a maze of opportunities to make a mistake which could cost you your retirement. Don’t navigate this process alone. I am so glad I had the employees of Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC along side me during this difficult and trying time. Thanks to them we navigated the maze with ease and my packet was approved in five weeks. Do yourself a huge favor and let the knowledgeable employees of Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC navigate this maze with you. You won’t be sorry that you did but you could well be sorry if you didn’t.

Joel

"I applied for Medical Disability from OPM and was denied."

I applied for Medical Disability from OPM and was denied. I found the Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC to hep me with my appeal through an Internet search. Eric and Scott listened to me and help me get approved. Eric also represented me when the organization I was working for tried to terminate my employment while I was waiting for approval from OPM. I’m so glad he was by my side during the hearing. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Lilia

"Thanks to Eric Pines and his team"

Thanks to Eric Pines and his team I was able to win my worker’s compensation case that had been ongoing for 3 years prior then Eric took over.. He also helped me to get in contact with the right doctors and I ended up winning a large settlement as well. He and his team are very professional and they truly care about you and your situation. I highly recommend you at least consult with him. He is very honest and he will do his very best to help you in your decision making. 2 thumbs up!

Randall

"Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC Review For 9 years I tried on my own to get my years of Military Service credited to my civilian Federal Service for retirement, to no avail."

Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC Review For 9 years I tried on my own to get my years of Military Service credited to my civilian Federal Service for retirement, to no avail. I contacted five different Government agencies and all kept pointing fingers back and forth to the other for my information. After contacting Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC and speaking with Mr. Eric Pines we sent a letter to OPM asking for reconsideration. After only two months I heard back from them and they said they were sending the matter to another Branch at OPM. After only one month we received a reply stating that they would allow me to buy back my time. After discussing the issue with Mr. Pines we decided that this would be my best alternative. I have paid back for more than six years of Active Duty and am expecting a payback check of over $40,000.00 and an increase of $400.00-$500.00 per month in my retirement annuity. My experience with Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC has been a joy and pleasure and I would highly recommend this firm to anyone dealing with issues related to the Federal Government. Bravo Zulu, Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC!!!

Thomas

"Mr. Pines answered quickly."

Mr. Pines answered quickly. I am not a Federal Employee, so was not able to represent me. He did send me a referral to another lawyer.

Ernest

"Mr. Pines was very important during a probation hearing"

Mr. Pines was very important during a probation hearing that would determine my fate at my present work position. He quickly learned the case issues and oriented me on what were the pertinent facts to discuss at the hearing. He is smart and understanding and prepped me during the troubling situation. Thank you.

Roberto

"I highly recommend Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC."

I highly recommend Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. Attorney Eric Pines is one of Houston’s best Labor Law Attorneys. Attorney Pines represented me during my complex accommodation and equal employment opportunity case. He was very patient, extremely thorough, and knowledgeable of pertinent labor laws and practices. I was very pleased with how he kept me informed of the case throughout the entire process. I received a response to all of my questions, phone calls and emails by close of business during the duration of my case. His staff and Partners are exceptionally skilled and proficient. I am very satisfied with his services and the results that he achieved for my case. I definitely recommend Attorney Eric Pines as your Labor Law Attorney. He gets the job done!!

Yolanda

"Very dedicated team!"

Very dedicated team! I highly recommend to any federal employee. Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC 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!

Melissa

"Eric Pines and his team are outstanding"

Eric Pines and his team are outstanding when dealing with federal employment issues. I strongly recommend consulting him when facing adverse actions from your agency. He will give you an expert and honest appraisal of your situation. He resolved my EEO and wrongful termination complaint in a thoroughly satisfactory manner despite the hostile stance of agency officials. Eric and his team are also very supportive, understanding the anger and frustration many individuals experience in these situations.

Rick

"I was forced to face the fact that I could not continue"

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 & Goldenzweig, PLLC, 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 & Goldenzweig, PLLC, 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.

Al

"I am a former Federal Employee who was involved in whistleblowing case."

I am a former Federal Employee who was involved in whistleblowing case. The agency went after me, eventually after numerous investigations, they put together a case and terminated my employment with one charge being lack of candor.

I initially hired a California based law firm, without doing my homework. But who really does in these matters. The firm seemed professional, had a flashy website boasting years of experience and lead attorney assured me the case would take no more than 4-6 months and I would have my job back.

10 months into my MSPB appeal, the California based firm had charged me three times the normal attorney fees for such a case and was using bullying tactics, threatening to drop my case if I would not settle with Government for virtually nothing.

I reached out to Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. Late on a Friday afternoon, I was able to reach and speak to Eric. He was patient and took the time to hear me out. As I explained my circumstances and convoluted case he could see through the mire and agreed to review the case. I explained I need someone who could see the merit and being willing to get in the ring and fight for my cause.

Mr. Pines put Stephen Goldenzweig. Stephen jumped on the task. Within a very short time, Stephen had the Government attorney at the table engaged in serious discussions. Within a short time an out of court settlement was reached. My OPM record was cleared and I was able to move on with my professional career.

Not that I would want to ever go through this again, but if I had to I would not hesitate to hire or recommend the Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC to anyone in litigation involving Federal Employment issues. I truly wish I would have contact Eric and Stephen first. I would have saved myself and family a lot of undue stress.

Michael

"When you think your legal battle with the federal government will never have the desired outcome"

When you think your legal battle with the federal government will never have the desired outcome, and you just want to throw in the towel because you are not confident with your attorney, PLEASE FIRST CONTACT PINES & GOLDENZWEIG, PLLC! Mr. Pines and his colleagues are competent & compassionate, understand the stress and strain you are suffering, and have the legal knowledge and fortitude to fight for you!!! They will be forthright with you concerning the merits of your case, while always being respectful of whatever it is you decide. Their diligent work ethic, in conjunction with their true desire to help people not be taken advantage of by the system is inspiring. They understand that legal battles are expensive and ALWAYS keep you apprised of what they bill for by sending you detailed logs of expenditures. I am grateful to them for the outcome of my case!!! I truly cannot say enough about this firm and wish I had found them initially when I was looking for representation. Give them a chance – you won’t regret it!!!!

Lyn

"If you are looking for an attorney who knows the federal service, contact Attorney Pines."

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!

Annie

"Early 2014 I was performing a Google search for Attorney’s who specialize in Federal employee rights."

Early 2014 I was performing a Google search for Attorney’s who specialize in Federal employee rights. I badly needed the assistance of a good lawyer, but like in many instances when specialized experience is needed to resolve an issue, it can be very difficult to find someone you trust, and has your best interest in mind as a client. Until I discovered the Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC… I’m currently employed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (WCPAC) Las Vegas, NV. I have worked for the VAMC for 26 years, and have always performed at an outstanding level, until management at WCPAC began to harass and bully me by threating my employment. Mid-June 2014, I was wrongfully terminated from the Department of Veteran Affairs (WCPAC) for reasons still to this day aren’t clear. While investigating Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC as much as one could at that stage, considering their individual experience, and reading all of the great testimonials, I thought to myself; I want to be one of those people freely expressing my satisfaction, which meant of course that we had won our case! Look at me know… Late July of 2014 I officially signed a retainer to secure the services of Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. By the beginning of January 2015, Pines Attorney’s Stephen Goldenzweig, and Aaron Wersing had secured a settlement which included some of the following… a. Employment Reinstatement b. Nearly a 6 figure monetary award c. All adverse actions removed from my Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC, and it’s honest, talented staff of Attorneys who know how to win…are worth every penny! The most impressing quality of Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC is that they are very up front, direct, and honest from our initial contact. If the Lawyers feel you are incorrect with your argument, as a prospective client, or an actual client, they will quickly and clearly make you aware that your argument is incorrect. They will explain why your argument is incorrect, and then they will provide you with the correct information and provide options based upon that knowledge. If Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC feels that you don’t have legal standing, they will quickly make you aware of that, and suggest that you should save your money. If they validate that you have somewhat of a case, but it’s an issue that they would not be interested in, they will refer you to someone who they feel would be better suited to assist you with your specific needs in a more efficient manner. If Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC believes that you have a valid legal complaint that they believe they can not only legally articulate a reasonable and intelligent defense, but they can also aggressively go on the offense to win the case! Ultimately, that’s all a client can ask for when searching for a Law Firm that will aggressively fight for your rights against the Federal Government, and all that entails. Since my victory with Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC, and his Associates I have referred many other Federal employees to the Firm for legal assistance and direction. To this day, I continue to be a very satisfied, and well informed client of Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC and his very talented Associates, who are well versed in Federal Law, and the legal rights of Federal employees. They’ve literally saved my life! Sincerely, Milton

Milton

"Recently I encountered a very difficult situation"

Recently I encountered a very difficult situation that resulted in my need for legal help and ultimately medical disability removal from my government job. Eric Pines and his team…including Scott Santerelli were wonderful to work with and were very successful in helping me with my case.

As a result of ongoing medical problems I found myself in a difficult EEO battle against the Treasury agency I worked for. After careful research I decided to contact Mr. Pines for help with my case and the FERS Disability Retirement process. He was always very informative, understanding and responsive to me and my situation. He was always prompt to return my calls and respond to my many emails and questions throughout my case. In addition he was more concerned about my wellbeing and situation than his own financial earnings. Throughout the process I was cared for and respected by Eric and his team. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone in the federal workplace needing legal help or advice. My case was resolved quickly and with better results than I had imagined going into the process.

Kathryn

"WOW! I just completed my case review with Attorney Pines"

WOW! I just completed my case review with Attorney Pines, not only was he extremely experienced and well versed in federal sector laws, and disability, he is the real deal! He took the time to listen, he was genuinely concerned and was not out to take advantage of my situation like so many other attorneys just out to rack up on fees. I was amazed with his experience regarding this case but another case as well.

I felt like I was his only client and I was moved by his kindness and sensitivity to my situation. It was clear that he had thoroughly reviewed the documents I had forwarded. I know it took more than the 1 hour I paid for.

He was clear, and succinct with regard to my options. I wish I had found him sooner. If you need an expert attorney, before you call anyone else, call Attorney Pines. He will not lead you astray. He’s a beacon of light and a restorer of hope.

Monica

"This team of attorneys are the ones you are looking for if you are in the unfortunate situation"

This team of attorneys are the ones you are looking for if you are in the unfortunate situation of having to put together a Federal Disability Package. From day 1 this law firm was the best when it came to listening, understanding, compiling a lot of information and putting it all together in a professional and accurate presentation. There was never a day or even a few hours that passed when I asked a question and it was answered as close to perfectly as one could expect. If they didn’t know immediately, they found out quickly. This team is definitely the model that other attorneys and firms should be measured against and strive to become. It’s nice to know that true professionals do still exists.

Tammy

"Mr. Pines was amazing. He reviewed my case, gave me some pointers"

Mr. Pines was amazing. He reviewed my case, gave me some pointers and I took those pointers to the table and made sure to use his name as well and within an hour I had a settlement agreement that included everything I asked for and then some. He was incredibly supportive, amazingly knowledgeable and the consummate professional!

Heather

"Eric Pines represented me in an OWCP case."

Eric Pines represented me in an OWCP case. I was injured while on the job with USPS. They argued that I was not in the line of duty at the time. Eric Pines and his staff helped me from day one. I could not believe how quickly they were on board and working for my behalf. I am so pleased with the outcome of my case. Clearly going up against the Federal Government must not have been easy but Eric Pines and Gavriel Toso worked tirelessly for me and kept me in the loop the entire time. They were, not only, honest, skillful and informative; but they were empathetic and kind. They have taken a huge load off my back. Now Workers Comp. will pay my medical bills like they should have done in the first place. I am forever grateful!

Amparo

"Eric Pines represented me in an EEO case involving disability discrimination"

Eric Pines represented me in an EEO case involving disability discrimination and harassment/retaliation involving my employer the V.A. The process of an EEO case for a federal worker is arduous and confusing. Mr. Pines helped me navigate through the process and explained every step in language I could understand. He was tough, knowledgeable, and stood his ground in his representation of me with the V.A. But, his interaction with me, his client, was empathetic and patient. It was clear he personally understood the emotional and personal loss associated with my case. He knew what I wanted most was acknowledgement and accountability from my employer. However, he understood that, in most cases, acknowledgement and accountability from the employer was a goal unlikely to be met. But, I got both from Mr. Pines; he acknowledged my grief, loss, and feelings of abandonment and promised me that we would get accountability by following through with the process of my case. He made good on that promise, and helped me feel empowered in the end. He negotiated a settlement for me so that I could move on with my life. Prior to my agreement with the settlement, Mr. Pines gave me all my options truthfully and candidly, disregarding any personal gain. In other words, he told me what my best options were regardless of any loss or additional gain to his practice. He is an attorney with integrity and honesty. If you have legal issues associated with Federal Employment I highly recommend Mr. Pines. I’m so thankful for his representation and assistance in one of the most difficult times in my life.

Janet

"I complained to the EEO about a reasonable accommodation denial"

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 Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC; 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.

Client

"I had a very complex federal case that Pine’s federal assisted me with."

I had a very complex federal case that Pine’s federal assisted me with. I worked with several of their attorneys and staff members for the past 3.5 years and have had nothing but pleasant experience with all of them. Everyone is intelligent, kind and helpful. They all go “the extra mile” for their clients. I am happy I found Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC! I would hire them again without a doubt.

Barry

"After getting injured at work (after having back surgery fail)"

After getting injured at work (after having back surgery fail) and painfully realizing that my ability to perform my job duties was no longer possible, I searched online for a reputable disability lawyer. I read the horror stories some federal employees posted about in discussion boards, I did not know where to turn. I found out that only Eric Pines and his staff were willing to work with me financially and to assist me throughout the entire process. I was guided and kept informed about the FERS disability process and after OPM approval. Scott Santarelli was very professional, competent, and prepared my case both humanely and professionally. They worked diligently with my treating physician to ensure the disability paperwork was received by my former agency and by OPM in a timely manner. This law firm is fantastic. They took up my case without demanding thousands of dollars upfront. They offered me a very reasonable payment plan before and after getting OPM FERS disability approval. Even though having to file for FERS disability was daunting and stressful, Scott was professional and patient. He worked very hard on the packet and was involved with my agency’s HR staff. It took sometime to get the packet assembled due to my agency and physician, but the moment these forms were finalized, Scott was ready. Throughout, Scott called me often and we met via telephone anytime I had questions or concerns. He did not let myself get down. His expertise afforded me the opportunity to have peace of mind throughout the process. They treated me like a person and not like just like another client, very personable.

I highly recommend Eric Pines. Joanna was also very helpful. I give Scott Santarelli high praise. This is the only law firm I would recommend to anyone thinking /needing to file an OPM FERS disability application.

Gigi

"I was mixed up in a retaliation case and a toxic work environment"

I was mixed up in a retaliation case and a toxic work environment within a Federal agency. Luckily I researched attorneys and called Eric’s Firm- Through Eric I met Stephen Goldenzweig who handled my case. Stephen is awesome; honest-a good communicator & fair. This firm gave me the courage to stand up to this massive agency and in the end negotiated an excellent settlement that helps me get my life back and recognizes that the agency’s actions were wrong!

Yawkey

"When I was fired, I felt all alone, hopeless, confused, victimized"

When I was fired, I felt all alone, hopeless, confused, victimized and I noticed that there was no one within my agency could help me. My first conversation with Mr. Eric Pines, I felt like someone really heard me and understood what I was facing.

From the first day I spoke with Mr. Pines, I no longer felt as thou I was in this by myself. Mr. Pines listen to me for four months and shared my pain. I’m trying not to be so personal but I can’t help it. As I write this review, I am literally crying tears of joy. I am so glad I had the opportunity to know him. He is the true example of a lawyer. He was extremely passionate, concern, knowledgeable and professional. Mr. Pines went at this case whole hearted and never gave up until I was vindicated.

I have never met him and I can truly say I love him because he showed love for me first. Thank you so much for giving me a reason to live and go on. Also letting me know there are people out here who still care for others.

Carolyn

"My government employer was threatening to report me to the licensing board."

My government employer was threatening to report me to the licensing board. I was completely distraught and unable to fight this on my own I did not know what to do. I contacted a big law firm to discuss this, but I was treated disrespectfully, given no hope and no compassion (I was only a little fish). I left that firm and contacted Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. From the first consult Eric, Stephen and Aaron were considerate, caring and understood what I was going through. They encouraged me to ask questions, kept me informed of everything going on and absolutely no surprise bills. There were two issues dealt with my employer, first was the report to the licensing board and second was applying for retirement disability. Stephen handled the licensing issue and he called me directly when he received the letter that I would not be turned into the board, I was in a state of shock and so grateful. This is my life, my family and I could not fight by myself…..they fought for me. The retirement disability outcome is still pending and is being handled by Eric, I feel he is doing a wonderful job for me. I would highly recommend this firm, all of these gentlemen made my terrifying situation more tolerable by being kind, professional and caring human beings.

Susan

"I want to thank Eric Pines and his staff publicly"

I want to thank Eric Pines and his staff publicly for taking extra great care and interest in me concerning my federal benefits and OPM application. This has not been easy for me but during this whole ordeal Eric Pines and his staff has been nothing but professional from beginning to end. He and his staff did a fantastic job pulling me through this. My family and I are very happy and appreciative with the quality of services, I received from Pines & Goldenzweig, PLLC. Thank you, Eric Pines!

Alan

"I contacted Eric Pines as he was recommended by a colleague."

I contacted Eric Pines as he was recommended by a colleague. He is very pleasant, professional and knowledgeable in the area of law related to the federal work environment. He took the time to patiently discuss my options. While I did not retain his services at this time, I would in the future if the need arises.

Client

"I have not written a public review for anyone or anything before."

 have not written a public review for anyone or anything before. However, I wanted to write this in hopes that someone looking for a lawyer could read this, and have the same wonderful experience that I did.

I recently found myself in the most difficult time of my life, I needed an attorney to guide me through the complicated task of applying for Federal Disability Retirement. From my first phone call to Eric and Scott to inquire about the process, to the day that I informed them that I had been awarded my disability retirement, they were 100% professional and caring. They treated me as if I had known them for years, genuinely caring, polite, compassionate, patient (with my endless questions!), and knowledgeable in every aspect.

Eric and Scott exceeded my expectations of them.

They returned phone calls promptly and never ever did I feel rushed with their responses or advice. I felt like I was their most valued client, never sensing that they were too busy to address my concerns. After completing any interaction with them I felt safe, informed, protected, and confident. I felt that they truly knew what to do in each step of the way.
I thank them from my heart for guiding me through a very difficult and intimidating process, I could not have succeeded without them!

Susan

"I’m a federal employee of 16 years and I was confronted with allegations about my behavior"

I’m a federal employee of 16 years and I was confronted with allegations about my behavior that were false or unfounded. The nature of these allegations could have resulted in my termination, surrender of my professional license, and criminal charges. Local attorneys that I visited with about my case told me that I would need to provide them with my employer’s labor policies.

I found out that obtaining these policies is no easy task when dealing with the federal government. Mr. Pines was already intimately familiar with federal labor policies that would affect my employment status.

Mr. Pines was a tremendous asset with guiding me in the preparation of my defense for my interview with the investigative board. He was present via phone during my interview. After a lengthy investigation process the Administrative Board of Investigation cleared me of all allegations and I returned to duty without any disciplinary action.

John

"I have a complicated disability"

I have a complicated disability that was difficult to explain and navigate on my own and with my agency. My supervisors were wrongly denying reasonable accommodations and I was becoming physically sick because of it. I contacted Eric early on when I first noticed that there was no one within my agency who would help. (Even though I work in EEO.) I didn’t know if I should file for disability or try to get accommodations so that I could work and I didn’t know who to ask. My agency was sending me in circles and insisting on excessive doctors notes. When I first contacted Eric, it was the first time that I felt like someone really heard me and didn’t just tell me what I should do based on their own interests. He was the 2nd attorney I talked to and I was reluctant to go with someone in another state, but he seemed the most competent.

I’m so glad that I started the process early on and continued because I feel like he helped me make the right steps so that I could keep my job and be made whole. I am so thankful that he was there when I ultimately participated in mediation with my agency. I knew that the way my managers were treating me was very wrong and I knew that it had hurt me tremendously. To be able to just say the “hurt” that it caused me – while he navigated the legal process of whose fault that was and why and what law it specifically violated was priceless. With Eric’s guidance, I not only got accommodations, and a great settlement offer, but I was able to keep a decent relationship with my agency. Their response was one of compassion towards me and not defensiveness, and Eric facilitated that response from them in a way that I couldn’t have done without him.

I highly recommend him.

Client

"I hired Eric Pines for an employment-related issue"

I hired Eric Pines for an employment-related issue with my federal employer. This is a somewhat specialized field of expertise, and I had previously had difficulty finding a lawyer with the necessary knowledge.

Mr. Pines was extremely knowledgeable, respectful, and professional. He was incredibly responsive. Every time I contacted him with a question or concern, he was reliably timely in his responses.

With Mr. Pines’ advice and leadership, the conflict with my federal employer was resolved favorably.

I would most definitely hire Mr. Pines again, if necessary. I would recommend him to family and friends without hesitation.

Client

"I would recommend Mr. Pines for anyone’s Attorney."

I would recommend Mr. Pines for anyone’s Attorney. Mr. Pines has assisted in my case a year ago, and he was very professional and knowledgeable of what he is doing. He helped me won the case that I was almost lost over thousand and thousand of dollars. He was easy to talk when there is any concern, and most importantly, he will answer your call or return your call in a time frame manner. Once again, this Attorney is highly recommended.

Phuong

"Eric was honest and professional."

Eric was honest and professional. Most of all he listened to what I had to say and handled the case in the manner I was comfortable. He asked my opinion and gave me his professional advice. He was with me every step of the way. During my oral response, he was available by phone and was able to help me clarify answers to some questions. His expert handling of my case saved my job. I would highly recommend Eric, especially for complex issues.

Kenda

"Mr. Eric Pines was my Attorney that I hired to represent me in 2011"

Mr. Eric Pines was my Attorney that I hired to represent me in 2011, regarding a situation that could have cost me my career. The first thing Mr. Pines impressed me with, was how easy he was to talk too, and how he negotiated an affordable cost for his services. That also, gave me the option to use other representation in combination with him. He was very open with communicating the legal process. He explained every option I had or did not have and helped me feel safe throughout the process. He was easily contacted by phone or e-mail.

I would strongly recommend Mr. Eric Pines to anyone who is in need of Legal advice regarding employment issues.

Not only is he very competent but he truly cared about me as an individual, “which is unusual in today’s society”.

Kathleen

"I would highly recommend Attorney Pines"

I would highly recommend Attorney Pines to represent you. He was approachable and explained everything very plainly. He was honest with the choices I needed to make and gave pertinent information to assists me in making reasonable informed decisions. My outcome was positive and I felt like he was really on my side.

Client

"I have met many lawyers but few have the knowledge or the integrity of Eric Pines."

I have met many lawyers but few have the knowledge or the integrity of Eric Pines. His attention to detail and grasp of complicated matters are second to none. He is an expert in federal employee law and mediation as well as age discrimination and union arbitration. His 16 yrs of experience spoke volumes when he handled my case swiftly and efficiently.

Dave

"El bufete de abogados de Eric Pines"

El bufete de abogados de Eric Pines me ayudó a resolver con éxito un asunto laboral que me ayudó a recuperar mi carrera en The VA. El grupo legal ha demostrado un conocimiento sofisticado de las complejidades del gobierno federal. Son el grupo perfecto para los trabajadores del gobierno. Ellos son el Equipo de los Sueños, haciendo el trabajo duro para que yo pueda concentrarme en hacer mi trabajo. Fueron minuciosos, pero rápidos para llegar a MI resolución deseada. Recomiendo encarecidamente a Eric, Steven y Aaron. Gracias chicos.

Cynthia

Categories: Spanish

"El Sr. Pines es un profesional consumado…"

El Sr. Pines es un profesional consumado… el Sr. Pines siempre me trató con respeto y amabilidad y se nota que es una persona profundamente empática. Siempre fue rápido en responder mis correos electrónicos o llamadas telefónicas y esencialmente me llevó de la mano durante todo el proceso. Lo recomendaría mucho.

Jessica

Categories: Spanish

"El Sr. Pines me ha ayudado en asuntos legales importantes y siempre"

El Sr. Pines me ha ayudado en asuntos legales importantes y siempre ha mantenido su profesionalismo y su pasión al hacerlo. Lo recomendaría encarecidamente a clientes potenciales.

James

Categories: Spanish