The fundamental difference between security clearance denial and security clearance revocation is straightforward: denial occurs in response to an application for security clearance, whereas revocation of security clearance can happen at any time after security clearance is granted. 

Both revocation and denial of security clearance can have a significant impact on your career and potentially other aspects of your life. So, it’s important to get help as soon as possible if you are faced with either. The Edmunds Law Firm has nearly five decades of experience helping clients with all aspects of the security clearance application and appeals processes. To learn more about how we can help, call us right away at 800-481-2526 or fill out our contact form right now. 

Security Clearance Denial and Revocation Procedures

The process for denying security clearance and the process for revoking security clearance are different, but very similar. 

In both circumstances, the applicant or security clearance holder typically receives a notice of intent and a Statement of Reasons (SOR). In both circumstances, the applicant or security clearance holder has an opportunity to respond to the SOR, potentially heading off the security clearance denial or revocation. Both a security clearance denial and a revoked security clearance can be appealed.

One important difference between the two procedures is that revocation proceedings are initiated when security clearance is already active, and the clearance holder is likely working in a job that requires that clearance. That means security clearance revocation could lead to termination or demotion. In addition, in some cases, security clearance may be suspended pending the outcome of the revocation process, meaning that the clearance holder may be abruptly unable to perform their professional responsibilities. 

Whether you have received a notice of intent to deny security clearance, a notice of intent to revoke security clearance, a notice of suspension or an actual denial or revocation of security clearance, your first step should be to contact an experienced security clearance attorney. Each event requires a different process, which can be much more complex than you might expect. For example, an effective response to a Statement of Reasons for denial or revocation is extremely detailed and typically runs to 25 pages or more. 

Grounds for Security Clearance Denial or Revocation

Like the procedures for denial and revocation, the reasons security clearance may be denied or revoked overlap significantly. The main reasons for both denial and revocation are concerns raised under one or more of the 13 guidelines used to assess national security risk. These are: 

Security clearance may also be denied or revoked if the investigator discovers that you were not entirely honest in your application or interview, or if those discrepancies are discovered after your security clearance is granted. The main difference is that a security clearance denial is based on actions or red flags from your past or misrepresentations during the application process, while security clearance revocation may result from actions taken during the performance of your government job or contracting role. 

Protecting Against Security Clearance Denial or Revocation

Protecting your security clearance begins with preparation for completing your SF86 and the interview process. If you leave something off of your application–even accidentally–that discrepancy could come back to haunt you during the investigation or even after you’ve been approved and started your job. Guidance from an experienced security clearance lawyer as you complete your application and your investigation moves forward can help you avoid those pitfalls. 

Getting Help to Appeal Security Clearance Denial

If you didn’t work with an attorney on your security clearance application, you will want to contact a security clearance denial attorney as soon as you receive a notice of intent and SOR. You will typically have very limited time to respond to an SOR, and the process of responding thoroughly is time-consuming and may require the collection of information and documentation. Though you can appeal a security clearance denial after the decision has been made, it is in your best interest to head off the denial if possible. 

When to Contact a Security Clearance Revocation Lawyer

If you’ve received a Statement of Reasons your security clearance may be denied, you should contact a security clearance revocation lawyer right away. But, in many cases, you’ll want to reach out to an experienced attorney sooner. For example, if you are aware that you are under suspicion or investigation in your office, or you have done something that you realize may threaten your national security clearance, you should get advice from a knowledgeable security clearance revocation lawyer immediately–even if you haven’t received a notice of intent.

The Edmunds Law Firm Can Help You Every Step of the Way

At The Edmunds Law Firm, security clearance matters have been our primary focus since 1976. We are here to help you if: 

  • You are just preparing to apply for security clearance
  • You have applied for security clearance and have received a request for additional information or clarification
  • You have applied for security clearance and realize you made a mistake on your application
  • You have received a Statement of Reasons your clearance may be denied
  • Your security clearance has been denied
  • You suspect the security clearance you currently hold may be at risk
  • You have received a Statement or Reasons your security clearance may be revoked
  • Your security clearance has been suspended
  • You need to appeal security clearance revocation

Many security clearance matters are very time-sensitive, so don’t delay. Call us today at 800-481-2526.