We provide legal assistance and representation to civilian employees of the federal government, employees of government contractors and active military members in matters related to obtaining security clearances, public trust positions and special access program reviews. There are many civilian and military positions in which the ability to maintain a security clearance is critical to a successful career. If you have had your security clearance denied we can provide effective representation in your effort to get your career back on track.

It is usually vital to request a hearing in your security clearance case. In the great majority of cases, Administrative Judges deny clearances where no hearing has been requested. For most people, their career and work experience are the most valuable assets they have. When faced with a career threat such as loss of a security clearance, an investment in experienced counsel may be the most important step you can take. It is critical to hire counsel early in the process, rather than waiting.

The adjudication of a government employee's clearance denial is a complicated process. If it is not clearly understood, and the employees position is not aggressively advocated, the chances of a successful resolution are slim. The following is a summary of the timeline in a typical case:

1. The Central Adjudication Facility ("CAF") issues a Letter of Intent ("LOI");
2. The employee has a chance to respond to the LOI;
3. The CAF sends the employee a Letter of Denial/Revocation ("LOD");
4. The employee appeals the LOD;
5. The Administrative Judge issues a recommendation;
6. The Personnel Security Appeals Board issues a final decision.

You should get counsel involved at the LOI stage. After the Administrative Judge issues his recommendation, it is extremely difficult to try and win a security clearance case on appeal. It is critically important to request a hearing in front of the Administrative Judge. We stand ready to provide you with effective counsel and aggressively represent your interests in these matters.

Mr. Shoemaker has over 15 years of experience as a trial attorney and is a partner in the law firm of Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein, L.C. ("PWHD"), based in Virginia. Mr. Shoemaker, his partners and associates are available for representation nationwide. If you feel that you need assistance obtaining security clearances, public trust positions and special access program reviews we encourage you to contact us online, or call us, toll free, at 1-888-611-4599 or 757-223-4560. One of our paralegals will review the facts of your case and discuss our consultation policy for this type of case.