If you work for the National Security Agency (NSA), you understand the importance of maintaining your security clearance. The NSA is an intelligence agency with its own unique security clearance process. At Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC, we have extensive experience representing clients employed by the NSA and are ready to help you if your access to NSA SCI has been denied or revoked.

The Security Clearance Appeals Process:

Your clearance appeal can deeply affect your career, so make sure you understand the process and how a security clearance attorney can help guide you:

• Receiving a Clearance Decision Statement or Revocation Decision Statement:

When you have your security clearance or SCI access denied or revoked, you’ll get a Clearance Decision Statement or Revocation Decision Statement that lists the security concerns, as well as a copy of the Investigative File which outlines the investigation, including evidence and reasons for denial. You’ll have 45 days from receipt to respond from the receipt of your letter.

• Responding to the Clearance Decision Statement or Revocation Decision Statement:

If you challenge the Clearance Decision Statement or Revocation Decision Statement, you’ll have to respond to their security concerns in a detailed written submission. A security clearance attorney can help you gather the evidence you need, and ensure your response thoroughly covers each security concern.

• ​​First Level Clearance Decision:

The Office of Personnel Security Review Authority will evaluate your response and render a decision. If their security concerns are dismissed/mitigated, your clearance will be restored. Otherwise, you will receive a short decision outlining the reasons why your appeal was denied, and giving you the chance to your final appeal with the NSA Access Appeal Panel.

• Panel Appearance 

Your security clearance attorney can help you prepare for your appearance before the panel. They’ll work with you to build a strong presentation that addresses each security concern, and ensure that all paperwork is filed and submitted correctly. 

• Final Decision:

You’ll usually receive a decision within 1-3 days after the panel convenes, or occasionally a request for more information. If you are issued a final denial, your lawyer can help prepare a re-application in a year. 

Why Your Clearance Could Be Denied or Revoked

Maintaining a security clearance allows individuals to access classified information essential for their jobs. However, even with proper maintenance, there are situations where clearances may be revoked or denied. Here are the primary reasons:

• Financial Issues: One of the most common reasons for security clearance revocation or denial is financial issues. This includes having a significant amount of debt, a history of bankruptcy, or consistent late payments. Adverse financial situations may raise concerns about an individual's reliability and potential susceptibility to bribery.

• Drug Involvement: If there are allegations or evidence that an individual has been involved with any drug activity, their security clearance may be at risk. Involvement with illegal drug use could potentially compromise an individual's stability and reliability, which is a security clearance concern.

• Personal Conduct Issues: Engaging in activities that demonstrate questionable judgment or moral character can also lead to security clearance revocation or denial. This could include involvement in illegal activities, work-related misconduct, or instances of dishonesty.

The Importance of Hiring a Knowledgeable Security Clearance Attorney

When facing the possible revocation or denial of your NSA security clearance, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side. At Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC, lead attorney Matthew Thomas is well-versed in the complexities of these cases. He understands the potential consequences and the delicate nature of the process and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and advocate for your security clearance.

How Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC Can Help You

• Case Evaluation: Matthew Thomas will thoroughly evaluate your case to determine the best strategies for your defense. He will review all the details surrounding the revocation or denial of your security clearance and assess the available evidence.

• Skilled Guidance: With his extensive experience in military criminal defense and security clearance cases, he can provide experienced and skilled guidance throughout the entire process. He will explain your rights and options, and make sure you have a clear understanding of the path forward.

• Aggressive Representation: Matthew Thomas will provide strong and aggressive representation to fight for your security clearance. He will pursue every available avenue to present your case persuasively and effectively to the relevant authorities.

Contact Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC Today 

If you are facing the revocation or denial of your NSA security clearance, don't hesitate to reach out to experienced security clearance attorney Matthew Thomas. He is here to protect your rights and help you navigate through this challenging process. Contact him today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your security clearance issues.