Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience.
Q:
I work for the federal government. Many of my coworkers are talking about a secession petition available to sign on the internet. I try to discourage their efforts and point out that I think it is a violation of their ‘Oath of Office’ they swore to when employed. Can this hurt their career?
A:
This is a very complicated issue not only because of the oath of office, but also The Hatch Act. This is because a secession petition could be considered political activity. I suggest you go to www.osc.gov, click on The Hatch Act and call the Office of Special Counsel for an advisory opinion.
Bill Bransford is managing partner of Shaw Bransford & Roth PC.
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