DOD Security Clearance Revocation and Denials
Retired Marine and Army Judge Advocates with Active, Reserve and National Guard Service
When you expect a problem, let us discuss it with you earlier rather than later. The stakes are too high to wish a problem away. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is true and it usually will result in lower legal fees also.
At Citizen Soldier Law, we understand the critical role that a security clearance plays in maintaining your career in the defense, intelligence, or government contracting sectors. Whether you are on Active Duty, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard, or if you are a government civilian or a contractor, your clearance is essential for accessing sensitive information and continuing your work. Losing or being denied a clearance can seriously affect your livelihood and future opportunities. One recent case of ours turned on the fact that our foreign-born client was not a native English speaker and Korean born. So ask for an interpreter or we can facilitate that.
Our Experience in Security Clearance Issues
At Citizen Soldier Law, we have or had TS-SCI and Secret clearances and our team has a wealth of experience in navigating the intricate and often daunting process of DOD security clearance revocations and denials. We are adept at handling cases before various adjudicating bodies, including the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) and other federal agencies. We will leverage your Command, if they will support you, and your past accomplishments and trustworthiness.
We Provide Representation for:
- Security Clearance Denials/Revocations: Contact us when you have received a preliminary decision to deny your eligibility for access to classified information, assignment to duties that have been designated national security sensitive and access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). If you have received a Statement of Reasons (SOR) detailing why your eligibility has been denied, we can help you challenge this decision.
- The federal government issues security clearances to determine whether an individual is trustworthy and reliable enough to access classified information. This process involves a thorough background investigation and the final decision is based on specific adjudicative guidelines. The most common reasons for clearance denials and revocations include:
- Financial Concerns: Unpaid debts, excessive debt, bankruptcy, or a pattern of irresponsible financial behavior.
- Foreign Influence: Close relationships with foreign nationals, investments in foreign companies, or extensive travel to foreign countries that may raise concerns about allegiance.
- Criminal Conduct: Past or present criminal activities, arrests, convictions, or patterns of illegal behavior.
- Personal Conduct: Integrity issues such as dishonesty, falsifying information during the clearance process, or negative employment history.
- Substance Abuse: Illegal drug use, addiction, or history of alcohol-related offenses.
- Mental Health Issues: Conditions that could affect an individual’s judgment, reliability, or trustworthiness.
- Security Violations: Unauthorized disclosure of classified information or violations of security protocols.
Appeals and Hearings
- Formal Appeals: If your initial response to the SOR does not resolve the issue, you have the right to request a hearing or file an appeal. We provide aggressive representation during this stage of the process, ensuring that your case is presented effectively and comprehensively.
- DOHA Hearings: The Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) conducts security clearance hearings for DOD revocations/denials. Our attorneys have significant experience representing clients in DOHA hearings and are skilled in presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing in your favor before Administrative Judges.
- Mitigation and Rehabilitation: The key to most security clearance appeals is proving mitigation of the government’s concerns. We will work with you to demonstrate how any past issues have been addressed, whether through financial counseling, substance abuse treatment, or the passage of time. Our goal is to prove that you are trustworthy and deserving of clearance.
Why Choose Citizen Soldier Law?
- Experience: Our attorneys and paralegals have nearly 125 years of experience in the law.
- Personalized Representation: We understand that each case is unique. We provide tailored legal strategies to address the issues that led to your clearance denial or revocation.
- Timely Action: Security clearance cases often have strict deadlines for appeals and responses. We ensure that your case is handled efficiently and that all filings are submitted on time.
- Dedicated Support: We are committed to helping you protect your career and livelihood. Our team will stand by your side through every step of the process, from initial consultation to the final resolution.
Contact Us
If you are facing a security clearance denial or revocation, do not wait to take action. Contact Citizen Soldier Law today for a consultation.
