Challenging Negative Findings in a Security Clearance Investigation

If you’ve received notice of unfavorable findings during your security clearance investigation or reinvestigation—leading to a revocation or initial denial—you may be wondering what to do next. While the situation can feel overwhelming, it's essential to know that you have options. Over 98% of security clearances that undergo the entire adjudication process are ultimately granted.

Whether you’re a civilian federal employee or a government contractor applying for a role that requires access to sensitive or classified information, maintaining your clearance can be essential to your job and career. Unfortunately, many applicants stop responding after receiving a Statement of Reasons (SOR), a formal notice that lists the concerns leading to the adverse finding. Failing to respond is the surest way to lose the chance to correct or explain the situation.

Clearance decisions follow consistent adjudicative guidelines based on a “whole person” assessment. This means that a single issue from your past—such as financial difficulty, a legal matter, or substance use—doesn’t automatically disqualify you. What often matters more is how you’ve responded since the event: Did you take responsibility? Seek treatment or counseling? Pay off debts or make efforts to do so? Mitigating actions like these show good judgment and may outweigh the concern entirely.

If your career depends on keeping or obtaining a clearance, don’t navigate the process alone. With proper legal guidance, you can prepare a strong response to the SOR, present mitigating evidence, and increase your chance of success.

At Crisp and Associates, we assist individuals in addressing clearance-related concerns and represent them throughout the administrative review process. Contact us today to discuss your options in confidence.