Why You Need an Army Security Clearance Lawyer at Every Step of the Process
Serving Members of the Military in Security Clearance Matters Since 1976
Nearly all members of the U.S. Army must undergo a background check and some form of security application. Not everyone requires the full security clearance process, but many military roles do. For example, all officers in the Army must receive security clearance, as well as anyone in a role that requires access to classified information. The same is true for many civilians and contractors who work for or with the Army. Inability to obtain security clearance can stop your career in its tracks.
An experienced Army security clearance lawyer can be your best resource, whether you’re just starting the Army secret clearance process, have received a Statement of Reasons (SOR) that your clearance may be denied, or have reason to believe your existing security clearance is at risk.
If you’re ready to learn more about how we can help, call us right now at (800) 481-2526 or fill out our contact form. The initial consultation is free, there’s no obligation, and we’re committed to giving you the straight story. We’ll never try to sell you services you don’t need or overstate the likelihood of success.
Trusted Military Security Clearance Lawyers Since 1976
Attorney Alan Edmunds has focused his legal practice on national security clearance matters and other issues affecting military members and veterans for decades. Every Army security clearance lawyer in the firm has trained directly with Mr. Edmunds and has extensive knowledge of and experience with the national security clearance process.
What Are the Army Security Clearance Requirements?
How the Army Security Clearance Process Works
The security clearance process for the Army begins with the Security Manager initiating a security clearance request. Once that request is received:
- The security clearance applicant will receive an email with information about accessing the eQIP questionnaire – the electronic version of the Army SF86
- The applicant has a very limited time in which to complete the lengthy questionnaire
- Once submitted, the questionnaire is reviewed for completeness and passed along to the Office of Personnel Management
- The investigation begins with a criminal background check, credit checks, and other financial verification, and verification of past employment
- Depending on the circumstances, the applicant may be asked for further information or required to sit for an interview
- In some cases, the applicant may be subjected to a polygraph examination
- The results of the investigation are forwarded to the Department of Defense (DOD)
- The DOD Central Adjudication Facility makes a determination on security clearance
The timeline for the investigation and determination differs depending on the security clearance level. An applicant for Army secret clearance may receive a determination in just over a month. However, the timeline for top secret clearance is typically closer to 90 days.
If security clearance is denied, you should contact a military security clearance lawyer right away. You may be able to successfully appeal your denial, but you will have to act quickly.
Common Reasons Army Security Clearance Applications Get Denied
The categories of information the DOD considers in assessing an Army security clearance application are the same as those assessed for other types of security clearance. They are:
A. Allegiance to the United States
B. Foreign Influence
C. Foreign Preference
D. Sexual Behavior
E. Personal Conduct
F. Financial Considerations
G. Alcohol Consumption
H. Drug Involvement
I. Emotional, Mental, and Personality Disorders
J. Criminal Conduct
K. Security Violations
L. Outside Activities
M. Misuse of Information Technology Systems
As you can see, there is a wide range of issues that may raise red flags in the security clearance process. These may include issues from the past that you might not have anticipated would be a problem, such as:
- Past drug use, including marijuana
- Overindulgence in alcohol
- International travel
- Unpaid debts or debt collection lawsuits
- Ties to foreign people or entities
- Illicit sexual behavior
- Criminal conduct, even if minor, and even if you were not prosecuted
A single red flag issue won’t necessarily disqualify you from receiving security clearance. Rather, the decision-maker will consider all information in context to determine whether you may potentially pose a security risk. Note that the DOD has no burden of proof in this process. If there is doubt about whether you may be a risk to national security, you will not receive clearance.
How a Military Security Clearance Lawyer Can Help You Succeed
If you’re pursuing security clearance as a member of the U.S. Army or in hopes of working with the Army as a civilian employee or contractor, preparation counts. Too often, people seeking security clearance run into trouble simply because they don’t understand how important it is to be thorough and accurate on the Army SF86 or are unsure what they need to disclose during the security clearance process.
At The Edmunds Law Firm, we have nearly 50 years of experience helping people navigate the national security clearance process. We can assist with issues including:
- Guidance on how to handle possible red flag issues in your application and interviews
- Ensuring that you have provided all necessary information in the appropriate format
- Preparation for your interview and/or polygraph examination
- Assistance in responding if you receive a request for clarification or additional information
- Representation on appeal if your security clearance is denied or you are facing revocation of security clearance
What Causes Army Security Clearance Revocation?
Army secret clearance or top secret clearance can be revoked for the same types of reasons that an application might initially be denied. Depending on the circumstances, your access to classified information may be suspended pending the revocation process, which may mean you are unable to perform your duties. Revocation could result in demotion or even discharge.
Fortunately, there is a process for fighting revocation of security clearance. Our law firm has a history of successfully fighting revocations, but the process isn’t easy. With so much at stake, you shouldn’t try to navigate it alone.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Army Security Clearance Attorney Today
Whether you need help navigating the security clearance application and investigation process, want to appeal a denial of security clearance or are facing potential revocation of your security clearance, The Edmunds Law Firm can help.
We know how important your security clearance is to your career and your future, and we know how to effectively respond to security clearance concerns. We have successfully helped clients overcome obstacles to military security clearance, including a history of delinquent debts, international travel concerns, and ties to foreign people.
If your security clearance application has been denied or you are facing revocation, you don’t have much time to act. You should contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Just call (800) 481-2526 right now.