Security Clearance Lawyer in Washington, D.C.
Representing Security Clearance Applicants Since 1976
If you’re applying for national security clearance, have been denied, or believe you are at risk of losing your clearance, you’ll want to consult our national security clearance lawyers in Washington, D.C. right away.
Attorney Alan Edmunds and our team of expert attorneys at The Edmunds Law Firm have the unique combination of knowledge, experience, and perspective you need. We’ve been fighting for applicants for nearly 50 years, and have deep experience with all aspects of the security clearance application and appeals processes. Just as important, Alan Edmunds and his national security law firm is dedicated to working on behalf of veterans by advocating for policies and procedures that hold the government to its stated standards and improve access to justice.
Local Help for Washington, D.C. Security Clearance Applicants
The Edmunds Law Firm represents people pursuing national security clearance across the United States. But we’re right here in the hub of federal and military employment. Our D.C. office is conveniently located at 4250 North Fairfax Drive in Arlington, Virginia.
We offer free consultations to ensure that you have the information you need before you move forward. And we make it easy to get the services you need (and only the services you need) with fixed, up-front pricing and a promise that we will never try to sell you more than you need.
When You Need a Security Clearance Lawyer in Washington, D.C.
Many people are unsure if they need a lawyer for security clearance matters. While you can apply on your own, an experienced security clearance attorney can make a significant difference at every stage, including completing the 100+ page SF-86 questionnaire.
If you’ve already started the process, you may still find that you need assistance from a knowledgeable security clearance attorney. For example:
- If there are questions on the SF-86 that you are unsure how to answer, or if you don’t know whether you need to disclose something, you should consult an attorney
- If you realize after you submit your SF-86 that you left something out or made a mistake, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. The error may be fixable, but it may not be as simple as you expect, and time is of the essence
- If you would like help preparing for your interview, particularly if there are potentially problematic issues to discuss, an experienced security clearance lawyer can help
- If you have been asked to take a polygraph exam, a knowledgeable attorney can explain what you should expect and help you prepare
- If you receive follow-up questions or requests for clarification after the investigation, your security clearance may be in jeopardy, and you should seek advice before responding
- If you receive a Statement of Reasons that your clearance may be denied, a Washington, D.C. security clearance attorney can help you respond fully and effectively, perhaps turning the decision around
- If your security clearance is denied or you have received notice that your clearance will be revoked, you should speak to a qualified attorney immediately
Choosing the Right National Security Law Firm in the DC Area
The most important thing to consider when choosing a national security law firm is the experience of the firm and the attorney you’ll be working with. Security clearance law is very different from most other areas of law, and it’s important to work with a firm that has extensive experience with matters like yours.
Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:
- You want to be confident that your attorney is on your side and dedicated to your success
- You want to work with an attorney who listens to and understands your priorities and concerns, and who answers your questions in a way you can understand
- You want to know what to expect in terms of pricing, rather than being blindsided by unfettered hourly billing
At The Edmunds Law Firm, supporting veterans, members of the military, and those who work for or want to work for the federal government is all we do. In addition to decades of experience with these specific issues and legal processes, we bring a deep commitment to your success. We’ve built a longstanding reputation as a leader in national security practice because of that knowledge and commitment, and our track record speaks for itself.
We’re local to D.C. and committed to bringing about change both within the security clearance process and in the larger context. And we employ a fixed rate billing system that lets you know in advance exactly what you will pay. We’ll never sell you more services than we believe are necessary for your success.
Don’t Make Assumptions about National Security Clearance
People who are unfamiliar with the national security clearance process make mistakes that run in two very different directions, but can have the same negative impact. One is to take the process too lightly, assuming that there’s nothing of concern in their backgrounds or that the forms and interviews can be “spun” like many people spin their resumes. That approach can lead to a denial even when the applicant might otherwise have been approved.
The other is being too pessimistic, assuming that some years-old incident will disqualify them forever. In that situation, some people don’t even try for their dream position or enter the process resigned to probable failure. That outlook will impact the interview and other aspects of the investigation.
Consulting an experienced national security clearance attorney early in the process, or even before you start applying for jobs that require security clearance, can set realistic expectations and help you understand the best way to approach the process.
The Edmunds Law Firm is Here for You
Whether you’re just getting started, you’ve received an SOR, or you have security clearance and believe it may be at risk, we can help. Often, that’s true even when the situation looks bleak. But the process can move quickly, so it’s important to seek help as early as possible. You can call us 24 hours a day at 800-481-2526 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced national security clearance attorney.
Security Clearance in Washington, D.C. FAQs
Why seek legal counsel for a security clearance in Washington, D.C.?
The national security clearance process can be long and complicated, and simple mistakes can seriously impact your future. An experienced security clearance attorney can help you avoid damaging missteps by assisting with the completion of your SF-86, preparing you for your national security interview and any required polygraphs, and putting together a thorough response to a Statement of Reasons (SOR).
A security clearance adjudicator is required to consider mitigating factors when there are red flags under the guidelines, but it’s up to you and your attorney to get that mitigating information in front of them.
A qualified national security law firm can also guide you through the sometimes complex and daunting procedural requirements and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
What areas of expertise should a security clearance attorney in D.C. have?
The exact areas of expertise you’ll need when you hire a lawyer for security clearance matters will depend on where in the process you are and the specific issues you need help with. These may include:
- Assisting with initial security clearance applications, including completion of the SF-86 form
- Addressing mistakes or omissions in your questionnaire
- Understanding and explaining what is included in the national security clearance investigation for the department requesting the investigation
- Preparing applicants for national security clearance interviews and polygraphs
- Guidance on responding to adjudicator requests for additional information
- Drafting responses to Statements of Reasons (SORs)
- Initiating security clearance appeals
- Preparing you for and representing you at a hearing
Attorney Alan Edmunds has nearly 50 years of experience with the national security clearance application and appeals processes in Washington, D.C., across all departments and categories.
How can I speed up my security clearance process?
At many points, the timing of the national security clearance process is out of your hands. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to speed up the process. The best way you can ensure that the process keeps moving forward efficiently is to make sure you are thoroughly prepared. That starts with gathering information and ensuring that you fill out your SF-86 completely and accurately.
Your security clearance attorney can help you anticipate any possible guideline issues so that you can begin assembling documentation of mitigating factors. Similarly, your attorney can prepare you for your interview so you know what to expect and don’t make mistakes or overlook anything simply because the information is old or you get flustered during the interview.
If you receive requests for clarification or additional information, consult your attorney immediately so you can respond promptly.
The Edmunds Law Firm Is Here for You
Whether you’re just starting, you’ve received an SOR, or your current clearance is at risk, we can help. The process moves quickly, so it is vital to seek help early.
Call us at 800-481-2526 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced national security clearance attorney in Washington D.C.
Washington DC
National Security Clearance Law Firm Office
Read What Some of Our Satisfied National Security Clearance Clients Have to Say
This was the only lawyer I called that actually picked up the phone when I called them. I called a few others and didn’t hear back from them until a week later. If you want to get something done this law firm is great because “the government doesn’t wait for you, you wait for them”. Mr Edmunds and his team were always professional and prompt in their responses and were very helpful with my case.