​  At Birch Hill Chambers, we understand that navigating New York State’s civil service laws and appeal procedures can be complex and overwhelming—especially when your career, reputation, or benefits are at stake. Our advocates bring deep knowledge of New York Civil Service Law and a strategic approach to representing clients in administrative hearings before the Civil Service Commission.

 

When You Need Us

 

  You have the right to appeal many final determinations made by the New York State Department of Civil Service.

 

  Birch Hill Chambers is here to ensure your voice is heard when facing:

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• Medical and physical disqualifications by the Employee Health Service (EHS)

• Job classification or salary allocation disputes, including under CSL §§ 120(2) & 130(5)(b)

• Disqualifications from examinations or eligible lists issued by Staffing and Testing Services or the Investigations Unit

• Denials of reinstatement after leave due to disability (CSL § 72 or § 71)

• Disciplinary actions taken against Managerial/Confidential (M/C) employees under CSL § 76

 

  Whether your case involves a complex occupational health determination, a classification downgrade, or an unjust disqualification, our team can guide you through the appeals process and present your case with clarity and authority.

 

  Understanding the Legal Framework

 

  Our representation covers appeals under key sections of the Civil Service Law, including:

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• CSL § 6(5): General right of appeal from final administrative actions

• CSL § 72: Involuntary leave for ordinary disability

• CSL § 76: Disciplinary actions involving M/C employees

• CSL §§ 120(2) & 130(5)(b): Salary allocation and position classification appeals

• CSL § 71 & 4 NYCRR 5.9(e): Denied reinstatement following occupational illness

• 4 NYCRR 66.4: Disqualification from examinations due to background or other investigations

 

What We Don’t Do

 

  Certain matters fall outside the Commission’s jurisdiction—and we’ll give you clear, honest guidance if your issue must be addressed elsewhere. These include:

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• Local civil service or municipal employment disputes

• Probationary terminations

• NYSHIP benefit issues

• Union grievances or salary matters governed by collective bargaining agreements

• Employment discrimination cases (which belong before the NYS Division of Human Rights or EEOC)

 

Why Choose Birch Hill Chambers?

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• Specialized Knowledge: We focus on state civil service law and administrative appeals.

• Pragmatic Advice: We won’t pursue appeals that are unwinnable—we tell you the truth, not what you want to hear.

• Strategic Advocacy: Whether through written submissions or oral argument, we craft compelling cases that get results.

• Client-Focused: Your livelihood matters. We treat your case with the urgency and care it deserves.

 

Contact Us

 

  If you’ve received a final determination from the NYS Department of Civil Service and believe it to be unfair, time is critical. Let Birch Hill Chambers review your case and advocate on your behalf.​​