Security Clearance Lawyer in Maryland | The Law Office of Dondi WestThe Law Office of Dondi West specializes in security clearance law and offers expert legal representation to federal employees and government contractors throughout the security clearance appeals process. If you’re facing challenges with your security clearance, our team is here to help you navigate the legal complexities and protect your professional future.
Our founding attorney, Dondi West, is a former military officer and currently holds an active security clearance, giving him unique insight into the process. We provide personalized assistance for individuals facing adverse actions related to their security clearance, from the initial application to appealing decisions such as security clearance denial or revocation.
Additionally, we work directly with employers looking to sponsor security clearance assistance for their employees to retain top talent. Whether you’re just starting the process or facing an appeal, we can help at every phase of your security clearance journey.
We offer legal assistance throughout the security clearance process, including:
Our goal is to help you maintain or regain access to classified information, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
The security clearance appeals process can vary depending on the federal agency or contractor you work for. However, the steps generally follow this pattern:
Security concerns typically arise during the investigation phase, which starts after you submit your SF-86 or e-QIP security clearance application. These concerns can come from a variety of sources, such as:
Once identified, these security concerns are evaluated to determine whether you should be granted or retain access to classified information.
Security concerns raised during the investigation are reviewed by agency adjudicators. For most cases involving government contractors and Department of Defense (DoD) employees, this review is conducted by the Department of Defense Central Clearance Facility (DoDCAF). The agency will either:
If a security clearance is denied or revoked, you will receive a Statement of Reasons (SOR), outlining the specific concerns. This document is the foundation of your legal defense. Our attorneys work with clients to build a thorough response, addressing any inaccuracies and providing mitigating factors that may influence the final decision.
For federal employees, the security clearance appeals process begins when you receive an LOI or SOR. You have the opportunity to:
If your response does not resolve the matter, you can appeal the decision through your agency’s Personnel Security Appeals Board (PSAB) or request a hearing before an administrative judge from the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA).
Government contractors follow a slightly different process, governed by DoD Directive 5220.6 and Executive Orders 10865 and 12968. Contractors typically receive an SOR from DOHA, which must be answered within 20 days. You can request either a written decision or a hearing before an administrative judge.
Our attorneys often recommend requesting a hearing, as live testimony and evidence can have a significant impact on the outcome. If you choose a written appeal, DOHA will send you a File of Relevant Material (FORM), allowing you to respond in writing to the allegations.
At Dondi West Law Office, we offer specialized legal representation for individuals facing security clearance challenges. Our founding attorney’s experience as a former military officer with an active security clearance gives our firm an edge in understanding both the legal and practical aspects of the clearance process. We provide personalized strategies to protect your access to classified information.
If you are facing an adverse security clearance decision or need help navigating the application or appeals process, contact us today at 443.203.9378 or fill out the form below to schedule a consultation.
When dealing with security clearance issues, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. Dondi West Law Office is ready to assist you in maintaining your clearance and protecting your career. Call us or fill out the contact form below to get started today.