California State Personnel Board Attorneys

Reach Out to Goyette, Ruano + Ulmer

Established by the State Constitution, the State Personnel Board (SPB) is charged with overseeing the merit-based, job-related recruitment and selection process for the hiring of state civil service employees within California.   The Board itself is composed of 5 political appointees who oversee a panel of Administrative Law Judges, investigators and other personnel who conduct SPB’s numerous affairs.

Additionally, the SPB oversees compliance with the state merit system, investigates violations of state civil service laws and presides over a variety of appeals including disciplinary actions taken by state agencies.

Investigations/Appeals Heard By The SPB

  • Adverse Action
  • Rejection During Probationary Period
  • Medical Termination/Demotion/Suspension
  • Non-Punitive Termination/Demotion/Transfer (License Registration/ Revocation)
  • Termination of Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) Appointment
  • Termination of Career Executive Assignment (CEA) Appointment
  • California State University (CSU) Appeal
  • Appeal from Counties Without Approved Merit System
  • Request to File Charges
  • Complaints of Discrimination based upon disability, medical or mental condition (including denial of reasonable accommodation)
  • Examination Appeal
  • Request to Test – Dismissed Employee
  • Whistleblower Complaint
  • Merit Issue Complaint
  • Withhold from Certification
  • Voided Appointment
  • Pre-Employment Medical/Psychological Disqualification
  • Failure of Pre-Employment Drug Test
  • Out-of-Class Claim (Examination)
  • Petition for Rehearing

Your State Employment Is A Valuable Asset Worthy of Protection

Goyette, Ruano + Ulmer recognizes the immense value of your state employment, which extends beyond salary, to include substantial benefits and lucrative pension through the California Public Employee Retirement System (CalPERS), potentially worth millions over your lifetime.


We strongly advocates for retaining your position with the State of California, understanding that each case demands a thorough analysis of your professional and personal objectives. Despite many state employees having union representation, the representation often does not provide you with an experienced attorney (or an attorney at all), does not wish to expend the time and resources to properly litigate against the state or simply does not have the necessary experience. If you are seeking adept legal guidance, we invite you to continue exploring our services and contact us for a comprehensive consultation.

More Information Pertaining to SPB Appeals & Procedures Generally

Visit here: https://www.spb.ca.gov/content/appeals/Appeals_Resource_Guide.pdf

Goyette, Ruano + Ulmer proudly brings over 30 years of experience in successfully litigating hundreds of cases before the California State Personnel Board, encompassing a broad spectrum of issues.

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