What was the employee's situation in federal court regarding representation?

In federal court, individuals have the right to represent themselves, a concept known as "pro se" representation. This means that the employee could choose to proceed without an attorney if they so desired. This right is grounded in the constitutional principle that individuals have the ability to advocate for themselves in legal matters. While it may not always be advisable for someone without legal training to represent themselves, the law allows for it.

Options that suggest the employee could not proceed without an attorney or was required to find one misinterpret the latitude granted to individuals in the legal system. Court-appointed counsel is typically available in criminal cases for defendants who cannot afford a lawyer, but this does not apply to civil cases where individuals are usually expected to fend for themselves unless they choose to hire a lawyer. Therefore, the option reflecting the ability to represent oneself accurately captures the employee's situation in federal court.