Security Clearance Background Investigation
Individuals applying for security clearance through the Department of Defense (DoD) should be aware that they will be subject to a security clearance background investigation. The individual's personal and professional history will be investigated, and the individual may be interviewed by the DoD. The security clearance background investigation is a measure taken by the DoD to determine an individual's trustworthiness. Since the individual will have access to sensitive information relevant to national security, it is vital that the DoD ensure that national security will not be compromised.
If the individual's security clearance background investigation reveals unfavorable information in regard to the individual, the request for security clearance may be denied. Security clearance may be denied because of an individual's irresponsibility, emotional instability, or due to a pattern or poor decision making or judgment. This information is usually discovered from information submitted to the DoD via the application for security clearance as well as the security clearance background investigation.
When an individual is denied security clearance due to information obtain through the security clearance background investigation, the individual will receive a Statement Reasons (SOR) detailing the reasons why the security clearance was denied. An individual may want to obtain an attorney well-versed in security clearance guidelines and the appeals process to assist them in refuting the allegations made in the SOR. A practiced security clearance attorney will be able to provide expert legal guidance and counsel throughout the appeals process.