Security clearance is usually needed for jobs related to defense in the United States. Likewise, other jobs involving a substantial amount of responsibility might need security clearance. There are four different types: top secret, secret, confidential, and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).

Confidential security clearance provides access to information or material that may cause damage to national security if distributed without authorization. It usually must be reinvestigated every 15 years. It is also typically the easiest to get, and most military personnel must acquire this level of clearance.

While other authorization levels require a background check by the Defense Investigative Service (DIS), clearance programs for a confidential level can be operated by the agencies themselves. For example, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) can run its own type of clearance program and decide for themselves who is trustworthy enough to merit the clearance.

However, to get to this level, it requires a few weeks to a few months of investigation. A confidential clearance might require a National Agency Check with local Agency Check and Credit Check (NACLC), which is a type of background check.

If you need help applying for a particular level of security clearance, or your application has been denied, talk to one of our experienced security clearance attorneys. The process could be somewhat confusing, particularly if you were denied and must now make an appeal. If you need clearance for your job, make sure you have excellent representation.

The Edmunds Law Firm is a nationally recognized business committed to representing people and corporations in national security clearance issues. We can handle even the most difficult cases. The attorneys at our firm have more than three decades of experience with these kinds of cases and can help you wherever you’re located. Our founding attorney, Alan V. Edmunds, is one of the few nationwide security clearance lawyers who travels throughout the country to represent people with security clearance problems. Trust him with your case. Contact us at (800) 481-2526 or fill out our online form to schedule a case consultation today.