Revoked Security Clearance

Government workers or contractors with security clearances are reviewed periodically. An unfavorable review can result in the revocation of a security clearance. In addition, security clearances may be revoked if you report any negative information to your security officer, which you are required to do when some incident occurs that might disqualify you for service.

Periodic investigations of your conduct are performed at the following intervals, depending upon your security clearance:

• Every five years for Top Secret Security Clearance
• Every ten years for a Secret Security Clearance
• Every 15 years for a Confidential Security Clearance

In addition, your security clearance can be revoked when you report unfavorable conduct or such a situation comes to light.

If you leave government service, your security clearance remains valid if you return to service within the number of years listed above. If you exceed the time of these periodic reviews, you need to restart your security application process.

Categories of Misconduct

Certain categories of misconduct can be reasons for revoking your security clearance. Misconduct in the following categories can result in revocation of your clearance:

• Allegiance to the U.S.
• Handling of protected information
• Foreign influence
• Foreign preference
• Criminal conduct
• Use of information technology
• Emotional, mental or personality disorders
• Personal conduct
• Sexual behavior
• Alcohol consumption
• Drug use
• Outside activities
• Financial affairs

Statement of Reasons

If your security clearance is revoked, you should receive a Statement of Reasons explaining why the clearance was revoked. Considerations used to determine the revocation are based upon what are called "Adjudicative Guidelines." These guidelines consider factors such as:

• The type of misconduct, how extensive it is and how serious it is
• How often and how recent the misconduct is
• Your age and maturity at the time of your violation
• To what extent was your participation of your own free will
• How much were you pressured or exploited to engage in the misconduct
• How likely is it that the misconduct will recur
• Presence or absence of rehabilitation
• Reason for the misconduct

You then have the opportunity to reply to this statement of reasons in an appeal.

Contact The Edmunds Law Firm

An experienced lawyer can be especially valuable during the appeals process. It is in your best interest to have a national security clearance lawyer guide you through the complex process of appealing your revocation. To schedule a consultation with a qualified and highly skilled attorney, contact The Edmunds Law Firm today.