Security Clearances

Fairfax Lawyers Helping People With Criminal Histories Obtain Security Clearances

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Many Virginia residents require security clearances for their jobs. There are several factors that can impact a person’s ability to obtain such clearances, however, such as convictions for certain crimes. As such, it is important for people who need to acquire or maintain security clearances and are faced with criminal charges to speak to an attorney regarding their options for safeguarding their rights. If you are charged with a criminal offense and have questions about how it may impact your ability to obtain security clearances, the capable Fairfax criminal defense lawyers of Crowley Peritz Law can assess the facts of your case and help you take the measures necessary to protect your future. We have an office in Fairfax, and we regularly defend people in criminal matters in cities in Northern Virginia, many of whom need the assistance of a Virginia security clearance lawyer.

The Impact of Criminal Convictions on Security Clearances

State and federal guidelines both indicate that engaging in criminal activity raises significant concerns regarding an individual’s judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness, which directly impact their eligibility for roles that require security clearances. At the federal level, various conditions may give rise to security concerns and potentially disqualify an individual, including a pattern of minor offenses that, when viewed together, cast doubt on their overall character.

Additionally, the presence of credible evidence of criminal conduct, irrespective of formal charges or convictions, can trigger security concerns. Being on parole or probation, violating the terms of probation or parole or having either revoked, and the failure to complete court-mandated rehabilitation programs are also disqualifying factors, as is a less than “Honorable” discharge from the Armed Forces. However, security concerns that can prevent a person from obtaining security clearances may be mitigated under certain circumstances, such as the passage of time since the criminal behavior, the absence of ongoing triggers that may have compelled the criminal conduct, the lack of reliable evidence supporting the offense, and clear signs of successful rehabilitation, including compliance with parole or probation terms, job training, education, and positive community involvement.

At the state level, disqualifying factors include felony convictions related to violence or larceny within the last decade, any other felony conviction within the past five years, and sex offense convictions. It can also include recent misdemeanor convictions involving violence, larceny, or violation of protective orders within the previous three years, outstanding warrants, pending charges, active protective orders, and any other circumstance found to be security risks.

Protecting Security Clearances During Criminal Proceedings

A criminal defense attorney plays a crucial role in helping individuals charged with a crime protect their security clearances. Among other things, criminal defense lawyers can assess the facts of your case and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, which in many instances can lead to a not-guilty verdict, reduced charges, or a dismissal. Defense attorneys can also gather the evidence needed to work towards securing the most favorable outcome to help mitigate the impact of criminal charges on a client’s security clearance. Additionally, the attorney can help demonstrate the criminal defendant’s rehabilitation and compliance with the law, which can be instrumental in preserving their security clearance.

Consult a Skilled Fairfax Lawyer Today

Criminal charges can jeopardize your security clearance, affecting your livelihood and reputation. While criminal charges don’t automatically disqualify you, they can have serious consequences. If you are charged with a crime and have questions regarding how it may impact your security clearances, it is wise to meet with a Virgnia security clearance lawyer as soon as possible. The skilled Fairfax criminal defense lawyers of Crowley Peritz Law take pride in helping people accused of crimes fight to protect their futures, and if you hire us, we will advocate tirelessly on your behalf to help you mitigate the impact of the charges against you. We have an office in Fairfax, and we routinely defend people charged with crimes in cities throughout Northern Virginia and Fairfax, Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William, and Stafford Counties, including McLean, Arlington, Fairfax, Annandale, Centreville, Reston, Burke, Herndon, Vienna, Alexandria, Falls Church, Stephens City, Ashburn, Dulles, Leesburg, Manassas, Dale City, Lake Ridge, Linton Hall, Woodbridge, Stafford, and Winchester. You can reach us to set up a confidential consultation by using our online form or calling us at (703) 337-3773.

Client Reviews

My interaction with Crowley Peritz Law was as frictionless as possible. Seth Peritz is a fast communicator and gets the job done right. If you are looking for the best defense possible, I would recommend giving them a call!

George Espinoza

After consulting several law firms I chose the one I felt most comfortable with and was very pleased with the results. Mr. Crowley was excellent in listening to my needs and achieving the results. I would certainly recommend him to anyone.

Josh Perkins

I was very pleased with my experience at this law firm and with hiring Matthew Crowley. I appreciated his professionalism and quickness in responses via email or text or phone call. He was extremely sympathetic, comforting, and reassuring throughout the whole process. He is definitely an experienced...

Kimberly Kheang

Mr. Crowley is a very experienced attorney. He is also very thorough with his work and is excellent. I highly recommend his legal counsel.

Marwan

I don't even know where to start. Mr. Crowley is by far the most professional lawyer I've worked with. He kept in touch with me every step of the way and thanks to his due diligence and perseverance he was able to get all my charges dropped! I am beyond happy and satisfied with his services and I...

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