Maryland Security Clearance Adjudications & Appeals Lawyer
A security clearance is difficult to get, and once obtained, it may be revoked at any time. Nevertheless, having a security clearance is a requirement for many military personnel, government workers, and employees of government contractors in the intelligence, defense and homeland security sectors. The attorneys at Henault & Sysko Chartered in Maryland have experience in national security law that includes not only private legal practice but also serving in positions in the National Security Agency. Our Maryland security clearance appeal lawyers help first-time applicants and existing security clearance holders whose application for security clearance is denied, or who have had their clearance suspended or revoked.
Denial of a security clearance is a life-altering event. Fortunately, you have options. Henault & Sysko Chartered provides practical legal advice and effective representation throughout the process of security clearance adjudications and appeals.
Evaluation based on adjudicative guidelines
If your application is denied, you will be provided with either a Statement of Reasons or a Letter of Intent to deny your application. At this time, you will need to decide whether or not to appeal the agency determination. Your timeline to respond can be as short as 45 days. We can help you understand your situation and options regarding whether to appeal, and we can draft your response, including a detailed brief emphasizing mitigating factors.
In evaluating whether to grant or deny a security clearance, the agency follows what are known as the adjudicative guidelines. Depending upon the particular agency or regulations governing your application, the specific adjudicative guidelines may be different, although they are all substantially similar to one another. In general, the 13 adjudicative guidelines relate to the following:
- Allegiance to the United States
- Foreign Influence
- Foreign Preference
- Sexual Behavior
- Personal Conduct
- Financial Considerations
- Alcohol Consumption
- Drug Involvement
- Psychological Conditions
- Criminal Conduct
- Handling Protected Information
- Outside Activities
- Use of Information Technology Systems
In answering the Statement of Reasons or Letter of Intent, you will need to craft a comprehensive response. Remember, the government spent months deliberating and making its decision; you only have as little as 45 days. After contacting our firm, we will set to work immediately crafting a comprehensive response that includes all relevant mitigating factors, such as:
- An overall common sense assessment based on all good and bad information
- The nature, extent and seriousness of the conduct
- All the surrounding circumstances
- Frequency and recency of the conduct
- Your age and maturity at the time
- The voluntary nature of the conduct
- The presence or absence of rehabilitation or any behavioral changes
- Your motivation for the conduct
- The potential (or lack thereof) for pressure, coercion, exploitation or duress
- The likelihood of continuation or recurrence
While it is true that any doubt is resolved in favor of national security, the agency is required to weigh any mitigating factors presented by the applicant. Preparing a thorough and persuasive brief is essential to convincing the administrative judge or appeals panel that you are worthy of security clearance.
How We Help
Henault & Sysko Chartered provides advice and representation throughout the entire process of adjudication and appeal by:
- Assisting you in the preparation of your application for security clearance
- Advising you on the initial determination of whether to appeal
- Initiating contact with the appropriate government agency, including DoD Central Adjudication Facilities or particular agencies that conduct their own adjudications, including the national Security Agency for NSA hearings
- Engaging all experts and consultants as necessary or helpful to your case
- Preparing a written appeal and all attachments
- Representing you in person before the administrative judge or appeals panel
Call Henault & Sysko Chartered in Maryland for Expert Assistance with Security Clearance Adjudications and Appeals
For practical advice, powerful representation and dedicated assistance throughout the entire process of security clearance applications, adjudications and appeals, contact Henault & Sysko Chartered in Maryland at 410-768-9300. We are conveniently located just minutes from Baltimore-Washington International Airport, DoD central adjudication facilities, NSA headquarters and other agencies relevant to your case. Your initial consultation is free, and weekend or evening appointments are available upon request. Before you make a life-altering decision regarding a security clearance denial, talk to a team of experienced attorneys committed to your best interests.
