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Overview

Navigating the complexities of security clearance law requires expertise, discretion, and a trusted advocate in your corner. At Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, our veteran-owned law firm combines legal acumen with firsthand understanding of the unique challenges faced by professionals whose careers depend on maintaining their security clearances.

Whether you are facing suspension or revocation or seeking proactive guidance to safeguard your clearance, our dedicated security clearance attorneys are here to help.

Top security clearance attorneys helping you navigate legal challenges

Our experienced security clearance lawyers have a deep understanding of the security clearance process and can guide you through every step. We can help you navigate the complex security clearance application process, from initial application to clearance renewal. Our security clearance attorneys have a proven track record of success in overcoming security clearance denials and appeals.

We understand the importance of national security and the impact of security clearance problems on careers and reputations. Our security clearance lawyers can help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to clearance denial.

Comprehensive support for security clearance matters

Our attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of security clearance law, offering tailored solutions for government employee and government contractor clients. Here’s how we can assist:

SECURITY CLEARANCE SUSPENSION

A security clearance suspension can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to derail your career. Suspensions often arise due to concerns like financial instability, personal conduct, foreign influence, or other allegations of misconduct.

Our security clearance attorneys work with you to pinpoint the specific issues that led to the suspension and build a strong response tailored to the unique facts of your situation. From collecting supporting evidence to drafting persuasive explanations to mitigate, we guide you through every step of the process to resolve the suspension effectively and efficiently in order to minimize disruption to your professional life.

SECURITY CLEARANCE REVOCATION

When a security clearance is revoked, it can have severe repercussions on your career and future opportunities. Revocations typically occur after unresolved concerns during the suspension stage. At Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, we analyze the revocation notice and develop a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Our attorneys work diligently to compile mitigating evidence, present compelling arguments, and demonstrate your continued reliability and trustworthiness. Whether through administrative processes or formal appeals, we fight to help you regain your clearance.

APPEALS

If your clearance has been denied or revoked, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process often involves responding to a Statement of Reasons (SOR) or appearing before an administrative judge.

Our team excels at crafting well-supported appeals that address the adjudicator’s concerns head-on. We assist with gathering documentation, preparing for hearings, and advocating on your behalf. With a clear understanding of the appeals process, we ensure your case is presented in the strongest possible light.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

The best way to protect your security clearance is to address potential risks before they escalate. Our attorneys offer personalized consultations to help you identify and mitigate vulnerabilities that could jeopardize your clearance. Whether it’s resolving outstanding financial obligations, avoiding conflicts of interest, or ensuring compliance with reporting requirements, we help you maintain a clean record and demonstrate your ongoing suitability for sensitive roles.

Security clearance law and regulations

Our security clearance attorneys are well-versed in security clearance law and regulations, including the federal government’s guidelines for security clearance eligibility. We can help you understand the complex web of regulations surrounding security clearances to ensure compliance.

Our security clearance lawyers have experience working with federal agencies and can help you navigate the specific regulations and unique nuances of each federal agency involved in the security clearance process. We can provide guidance on the security clearance reconsideration and appeals process.

Our security clearance attorneys can help you understand the security concerns and mitigating factors that may impact your clearance eligibility.

Types of security clearance

There are three main types of security clearance: Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. Our security clearance attorneys can help you understand the different types of security clearances and which one is required for your position. Security clearance applicants benefit greatly from legal guidance, especially when responding to government notices, preparing for interviews, and navigating potential denials, suspensions, or revocations.

We can also help you understand specialized security designations, such as Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) or “Public Trust” designation. Our security clearance lawyers can guide you through the security clearance application process for each type of clearance. We can help you understand the security clearance requirements for national security positions.

Security clearance representation

At our law firm, we understand the complexities of the security clearance process and the importance of having experienced representation. Our security clearance lawyers have decades of experience navigating the intricacies of security clearance law and have a proven track record of success in security clearance cases. We provide comprehensive representation to clearance holders, military personnel, and federal employees throughout every stage of the security clearance process. Our experienced security clearance attorneys are dedicated to helping clients achieve a positive solution and protecting their rights and interests.

Benefits of hiring a security clearance lawyer

Hiring a security clearance lawyer can be a crucial step in ensuring a successful outcome in the security clearance process. An experienced security clearance attorney can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the process, from the initial application to the final decision.

Here are just some of the benefits of hiring a security clearance lawyer:

  • Expert knowledge of security clearance law and procedures
  • Ability to identify and address potential security concerns
  • Effective representation in security clearance investigations and hearings
  • Assistance with security clearance appeals and reconsideration
  • Protection of rights and interests throughout the proces

Security clearance eligibility and denial

The federal government has established strict guidelines for determining eligibility for a security clearance. The adjudicative guidelines include a list of conditions used to disqualify applicants and alleviate security concerns. Some of the most common reasons for security clearance denial include these

  • Financial debt
  • Foreign influence and relationships
  • Technology misuse and cyber security concerns
  • Criminal conduct and substance abuse

Our experienced security clearance lawyers can help clients understand the eligibility requirements and navigate the process of appealing a denial.

Security clearance investigations and hearings

A security clearance investigation is a thorough examination of an individual’s background and character to determine their eligibility for a security clearance. The investigation may include interviews with the applicant, as well as with friends, family, and colleagues. In some cases, a security clearance hearing may be required to address specific security concerns or allegations. Our experienced security clearance attorneys can provide effective representation in security clearance investigations and hearings, ensuring that our clients’ rights and interests are protected throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the common reasons for security clearance suspension?

Financial issues, criminal conduct, substance abuse, foreign influence, or misuse of IT systems often trigger suspensions.

To appeal a revocation, you must respond to the Statement of Reasons (SOR), provide mitigating evidence, and, if necessary, request a hearing before an administrative judge.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, but the process can take several months. Prompt responses and thorough preparation can help expedite the process.

Evidence such as financial statements, character references, proof of rehabilitation, and compliance with training or reporting requirements can strengthen your case.

Yes, you can reapply, but it’s crucial to address the issues that led to the revocation and demonstrate significant changes in circumstances or behavior.

While not required, having an experienced attorney improves your chances of a favorable outcome. A security clearance attorney can help navigate complex processes and present a strong defense.

Proactive measures like resolving debts, maintaining transparency, and adhering to security protocols can help you avoid problems with your clearance.

Not necessarily, but it’s important to disclose these relationships and demonstrate that they do not pose a risk to national security.

Respond promptly and thoroughly, addressing each concern with supporting evidence and a clear explanation of mitigating circumstances.

Yes, with proper documentation and corrective actions, many suspensions can be resolved and clearances can be reinstated.

Partners

Ellis Bennett

Partner

Aaron Jackson

Partner

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Intern Program

As part of our effort to recruit, develop and retail the best and brightest attorneys, Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig offers a summer intern program for promising law school students who are looking to work as part of an innovative and incredibly successful team. With a global team of lawyers, selected candidates are able to work on high level projects in a collaborative space.

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