A security clearance allows you to access classified government information. The federal government grants clearances at three levels: confidential, secret, and top secret. Each level requires a background check to determine whether you can be trusted with sensitive information. Holding a clearance is a privilege, not a right, and you must follow strict rules to keep it. Losing your clearance could mean losing a job, especially if you work in defense, intelligence, and government contracting.
Common Reasons for Security Clearance Denial or Revocation
Protecting a security clearance requires avoiding actions and circumstances that could raise concerns about trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. Government agencies review many factors when deciding whether to grant, deny, or revoke a clearance. Some of the most common reasons for clearance problems include:
- Financial Issues: Government agencies view financial problems as a potential security risk. If you have large unpaid debts, a history of bankruptcy, or frequent financial troubles, investigators might question your ability to resist bribery or coercion.
- Criminal Charges and Other Legal Problems: A criminal record, even without a conviction, can raise concerns about your judgment and reliability. Agencies take violent crimes, fraud, and theft especially seriously, but even lesser offenses, such as multiple DUIs, could signal a lack of responsibility.
- Drug or Alcohol Abuse: Regular drug use, even in states where marijuana is legal, can threaten a security clearance. Federal agencies follow federal law, which still classifies marijuana as illegal. Excessive alcohol use can also become a problem, especially if it leads to arrests, reckless behavior, or poor performance at work.
- Personal or Work-Related Misconduct: Security clearance holders must follow strict ethical and professional standards. Investigators look for evidence of dishonest behavior, such as falsifying work records, lying on official forms, or leaking sensitive information. Workplace harassment or a history of rule violations could also raise red flags.
- Foreign Influence, Travel, or Ties: Agencies carefully review clearance holders’ foreign connections. Regular contact with foreign nationals, including family members, could trigger concerns about divided loyalties. Traveling to certain countries without reporting it or failing to disclose foreign financial interests could also raise suspicion.
Self-Reporting and Mitigation Strategies
Security clearance holders must report potential issues before investigators discover them. Self-reporting includes disclosing arrests, financial problems, and foreign contacts. Failing to report an issue can make the situation worse and lead to clearance revocation. Agencies might grant leniency if you report a problem promptly and take steps to fix it. For example, you might show proof of a repayment plan if you’re struggling with debt. Similarly, if you were dealing with a minor legal issue, you could provide evidence of rehabilitation. Agencies look at the full picture, so taking responsibility and showing improvement can help you protect your clearance.
What to Do If Your Clearance Is in Jeopardy
If you’re facing a security clearance investigation, suspension, or revocation, you should contact a lawyer immediately. They can help you respond to inquiries, gather evidence, and challenge negative findings. If an agency denies or revokes your clearance, your attorney can appeal the decision on your behalf, but deadlines are strict. Waiting too long to act can limit your options for defense, so you must act quickly. A lawyer with experience in security clearance cases understands government procedures and can build a strong case. Without legal guidance, you risk losing your clearance and possibly your job.
Contact a Defense Attorney Now
Our defense attorneys understand the laws and procedures involved in security clearance cases. We can help you respond to government inquiries, address potential concerns, and fight to keep your clearance. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to arrange an initial consultation with our attentive team.