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What To Do if You Receive a Security Clearance Denial & Why It’s Vital to Hire a Lawyer

Security Clearance 

In the world of government jobs, one of the most sought-after criteria is a security clearance. It takes a long time to get one, a lot of work to keep one, and even after months of processing, individuals can still face difficulty in getting approved. having a security clearance can therefore greatly improve your chance of getting a different government job or even keeping the one you have. Sadly, many applicants receive a security clearance denial, which can be both stressful and discouraging. But it’s important to remember that a security clearance denial does not mean it’s over–it merely means that you may need to take a few extra steps to navigate the process of contesting the decision. Understandably, most applicants are unable to navigate the legal system on their own and need the help of a security clearance lawyer who can not only help you better understand the requirements of a security clearance but also to review your case and advise you on your options in the event your application is denied. To understand the importance of a good attorney through this process, it’s important to understand the process.

I. Understanding Security Clearance Requirements

When you are applying for security clearance, you must make sure you meet the requirements that are set by different governmental agencies. This means providing detailed information about your background, finances, and any potential conflicts of interest.

The first step to obtaining a security clearance is to fill out a clearance application form, usually online. This form will ask you to provide detailed information about your finances, education, employment history, and residence. You will also need to provide references and answer questions related to any potential conflicts of interest.

Next, you’ll undergo a background check. This will involve verifying your identity, checking your criminal records, verifying references, and obtaining a credit report. There may also be other background checks required depending on the job and the agency. As part of the background check, you may also need to provide information about your personal life such as who you associate with and if you have any close family members who are outside the United States.

Once you have completed the security clearance application and the investigation is complete, all of the information will be reviewed by the government agency and a decision will be made regarding your eligibility. You may be asked to appear for an interview and/or provide additional documents. If your application is approved, you will be issued a security clearance.

II. What To Do If You Receive a Security Clearance Denial

When someone is denied a security clearance, it can have a significant impact on their ability to move forward with certain job or educational opportunities. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to appeal the denial and potentially get the clearance granted. Generally, these steps are:

  1. Understand the Reason for the Security Clearance Denial: The first step is to find out why the denial was issued. Federal agencies that issue security clearances will provide a written document that explains the reasons for the denial. The letter should provide answers to questions such as: why the application was denied and what needs to be done to resolve the issue.
  2. Gather Supporting Documentation: Once the individual understands the reasons for the denial, they should begin to gather the necessary supporting documentation. This could include, but is not limited to, character references, dispute letters, court documents, and other evidence that could help substantiate their claim.
  3. Submit an Appeal: After the individual has acquired the necessary evidence, they should submit an appeal to the agency that denied the security clearance. The appeal should include an explanation of why the individual believes the decision was incorrect, as well as all of the supporting documentation.
  4. Attend a Hearing: Depending on the situation, the individual may be invited to attend a hearing in order to orally defend their case. During the hearing, the individual should be prepared to explain why they think the decision is incorrect, and present any evidence they have that supports their case.
  5. Follow Up on the Appeal: After the hearing, the individual should follow up with the agency to ensure that their appeal has been received and is being considered. They may also request an update on the status of their appeal. If the appeal

III. How an Attorney Can Help

As you can see from the information provided above, this is a complex and legal process. While you are not required to have an attorney assist you, we strongly recommend it. Security clearance attorney’s have experience navigating the complex federal regulations that govern security clearance denials. They can help determine the reasons for the denial, assess the government’s evidence and contest the denial on legal grounds. Furthermore, a security clearance attorney can provide legal advice on the appeal process and help to carefully prepare a response that can result in a successful clearance.

Additionally, security clearance lawyers can provide strategy for presenting a successful case, including providing evidence of rehabilitation, improving one’s credit report and obtaining affidavits of support. They also understand the technical aspects of the appeal process, including the deadlines and requirements for submitting the appeal.

Sometimes a security clearance denial is the result of a mistake or due to incorrect or incomplete information. An experienced security clearance lawyer can help to gather the necessary evidence to prove the mistake and ensure the appeal is properly presented. They may also be able to identify potential areas of negotiation in order to reach a settlement that can be mutually beneficial for both parties.

In summary, a security clearance denial is not the end of the battle, but just the beginning. Hiring an experienced security clearance attorney to help you fight that battle may make all the difference.

If you or a loved one are having security clearance issues, King Military Law has expert attorneys ready to fight alongside of you.

King Military Law–When Experience Matters Most.

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Jess SackettJess Sackett
20:19 15 Sep 23
Mr King recently defended my daughter for misconduct. His defense ended with a unanimous board decision clearing my daughter of that charge. Mr King was tenacious and unrelenting in her case. His staff are true professionals and highly skilled and experienced in preparing the cases. If you or someone you know needs a lawyer who will fight for you Mr King is the one you want in your corner.
Liv SLiv S
07:58 06 Sep 23
My journey with King Military Law began when my Navy Reserve Center falsely accused me of committing a crime but failed to notify me until nearly a year had passed after said crime. I was literally looking at losing everything I had ever worked towards the 16 years I had spent in the military to include a burgeoning career in the healthcare sector, my security clearance, my G.I Bill benefits, ect. If you think that situation can’t get any more stressful, try searching for legal counsel who will treat your case with the utmost importance instead of just a money grab. Thankfully, I found King Military Law quickly and was sold from the many 5-star reviews to Don’s impressive resume, and Kasheta’s prompt response to my initial query.During the consultation, Don did not shy away even after I explained the details of my rather complex case. In fact, he seemed to relish in the challenge of it all. Once retained, he and the rest of his legal team immediately began working various angles of my case and even provided further support by helping me navigate through several legal forms provided by my command to ensure that none of my rights were signed away.As it is the Navy Reserve, I had to wait several months for my Administrative Separation Board to convene; however, Don and his legal team always answered any questions that I had or dealt with any situations that arose in a timely manner and kept me in the loop as new details emerged.To say I was beyond stressed out the weekend of my Administrative Separation Board is an understatement, Angela’s positive demeanor and Don’s encouraging words were greatly appreciated. Don is a talented legal force and well versed in proceedings, his eloquence and extensive knowledge of military law is clear. However, what stuck out to me the most is the moment when the opposing counsel launched a particularly catty and rather unwarranted personal attack on my character. Don immediately but gracefully rebuffed his attack, providing a compelling and moving argument in which he showered me with praise and related similar experiences he had in the navy to my case in order to appeal to board members on my behalf.Thanks to King Military Law, I was able to win my case and can finally relax for the first time in nearly a year. I can’t thank the exceptional legal team (Don, Kasheta, Angela, and Ashley) enough for their tireless efforts, they’re absolute consummate professionals who truly care about their clients and will always go that extra mile for them. I HIGHLY recommend King Military Law to any service members in need and seeking out legal counsel.
Eddie RobinsonEddie Robinson
02:35 04 Sep 23
Mr. King & his associates (Ms. Kasheta) were very responsive and caring to me and my son's case. They explained in terms I could understand, they were timely, and they were caring. My son had serious charges against him and I am hundreds of miles away on the East coast and very scared. He was able to be there to see my son and let him know he had someone on his side. I know we pay for attorneys but you want to feel comfortable with your choice. My son is coming home free & clear. You will be very satisfied with King Military Law when you just can't be there yourself. THANK YOU MR KING & STAFF. posting from : Alethia
Hailey PorterHailey Porter
15:24 30 Aug 23
King Military Law saved my best friend's life and career. The Navy likely illegally separated a close friend of mine with 14 years of service, at the time, as a Sailor. As was I, she was stuck overseas in Afghanistan in 2020 due to the travel ban Gen Miller initiated to prevent personnel from entering and leaving Theater. She wasn't able to fulfill her naval obligations due to the ban. She fought tooth and nail to come back into service and went through MEPs for a second time to continue serving. The Navy again tried to ADSEP the sailor for a separate reason, and that's when she hired King Military Law. If my friend was given her charges she would've lost her medical career, intelligence career, and at this point 16 years of active service. I was present for her ADSEP board and watched King Military Law in action. The process was extremely nerve-racking. The recorder wasn't pulling any punches about my friend's character they were trying to portray to the board. King Military Law's kindness, professionalism, and strategy saved her life. They helped her beat a case that typically the service member wouldn't win. I 10/10 recommend King Military Law. For the first time in 2 years, my friend is able to truly rest and breathe.
Bryce BeeckmanBryce Beeckman
04:26 30 Aug 23
Don is absolutely amazing, I cannot thank him enough for how much he helped me out with my case. He knows the Navy legal system inside out and has a ton of experience. If it weren’t for him I would have never been reinstated. My chain of command literally tried to rail road me, twist my story, and even tried to tell me that it was illegal to get legal representation, but Don worked with me every step of the way. Before contacting Don I spoke with other lawyers and they did not care at all, and didn’t even listen to me and my case. The JAG even blew me off and told me that I was going to loose, didn’t even want to help me out, but Don did it, and got my rank back. I’m so incredibly grateful that he had my back. Don is the way to go for anything legal dealing with the Navy, hese #1 in my books.
Dina TrujilloDina Trujillo
04:46 15 Aug 23
Where do I begin? This will be a bit lengthy as I want to share my experience King Military Law. There aren’t enough words to express how grateful, blessed, and completely honored we are to have had Don King and his team representing my Marine. A few months ago, my son found himself in a very difficult, very scary and extremely stressful situation. A parents worst nightmare. My son was being FALSLEY accused of of a very serious crime. My son had no chance to speak his truth, and was immediately guilty in the eyes of command with absolutely no chance for a positive outcome. This was extremely heart wrenching to a mother who 100% knows without a doubt that her son is innocent, it completely broke me and tore me apart. There was nothing I could do. Once Don heard my sons case he immediately took action. Don ensured that my sons rights were protected. Don protected my Marine when I could not. Don made sure that my son would not get screwed out of what he was entitled to, since my son was a few months from completing his enlistment.Don fought for my boy, presented facts and had these serious charges dismissed against my son, all without having to go to court martial. Don believed in my son from day one and relentlessly fought for him.Don is caring and compassionate and genuinely cares. While going through this stressful situation, Don made sure to reach out to my Marine a few times a week to check in with my son to make sure he was mentally and emotionally doing well. Don kept us updated throughout the process and we always knew what to expect. In the end my son was separated under honorable conditions and is now home. All which never would’ve happened without Don. Don saved my sons career and ensured that my son could have a successful and bright future in the civilian world.I promise that you will not find another Military Attorney with the experience and knowledge that Don has, just take a look at his resume. Don is a warrior who will run circles around anyone. Thank you so much Don and Kasheta for everything! Forever thankful.
Rancell GonzalezRancell Gonzalez
06:29 08 Aug 23
This guy has the best legal team in the nation, hands down. All odds were against my best friend, another co-worker, and myself. Somehow, he managed to win every single battle. Don King literally fought for us 24/7, it did not matter to him whether it was the weekend or late at night. Don always answers the phone provides support through stressful times. Don is a winner, what can I say. I will always be forever grateful that I hired this man. When you go to court with him, you will see that you didn't waste your money and time, but you invested it. This guy awesome, I would hire him a 10000000000000 times if had to because I know he will win.
Kiki WhiteKiki White
00:27 13 Jul 23
Mr. King went above and beyond during our consultation. He was professional, knowledgeable, and very thorough. We went over the 30 minutes. Mr. King did not try to rush me off the phone. This is an attorney who truly cares for a client or potential client. I would highly recommend retaining Mr. King as an attorney. Thank you so much for your assistance Mr. King!
Jeovani StouteJeovani Stoute
02:47 05 Jul 23
Mr. King provided advice for a pending legal issue I am facing. His experience, professional demeanor, and care is unmatched.
Leslie PuikLeslie Puik
01:03 07 May 23
There aren't enough words of high praise to express our appreciation for Don King of King Military Law. He and his very qualified staff Kasheta and Angela took care of our needs like we were their only clients. They are all highly professional, superb communicators, responsive, and thorough. They are caring, compassionate and patiently listen to and address every concern as though they were helping one of their family members. Don excels at helping others understand the processes of the law. He educates his clients so that they can navigate toward the best possible solution and outcome. We will be forever grateful for the entire team's effort to help our family through the most challenging time of our lives.I highly recommend King Military Law.
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