Jacksonville, NC Security Clearance Attorney

A history of serious criminal convictions, multiple lesser offenses, or even current criminal accusations can result in a denial, suspension, or revocation of your clearance. In security clearance cases, investigators closely review the nature, frequency, and recency of any criminal behavior to determine whether it reflects poor judgment, unreliability, or a lack of integrity. Even if a conviction occurred years ago, failure to disclose it or show evidence of rehabilitation can negatively impact your eligibility. 

If you are facing criminal charges or past convictions that could jeopardize your clearance, our criminal lawyers in Jacksonville, NC can help. With experience in both criminal law and military justice, The Wilkie Law Group provides strategic defense to minimize legal consequences and mitigate the impact on your clearance status.

Engaging in criminal or compromising sexual conduct that demonstrates poor judgment or could make you vulnerable to coercion may negatively affect your clearance. Investigators review sexual behavior as part of assessing an individual’s overall trustworthiness and ability to safeguard classified information. Behavior that violates the law, disrupts workplace integrity, or exposes a person to blackmail or exploitation can be grounds for concern. However, consensual adult relationships that are lawful and private are generally not disqualifying.

Personal history plays a significant role in determining eligibility for a security clearance. This broad category includes associations with known criminals, dishonesty during the investigation, or negative reports from employers or colleagues about your reliability or character. In security clearance investigations, even small acts of dishonesty can lead to serious consequences.

Clearance may be affected if there is a failure to follow prescribed treatment for emotional, personality, or mental disorders, or if a pattern of instability is demonstrated. However, security clearance investigators do not automatically deny clearance based on a mental health diagnosis alone. In fact, seeking professional help and adhering to recommended treatment can be viewed as a sign of responsibility and sound judgment.

Any action or evidence suggesting that your allegiance to the United States is questionable can result in denial or loss of clearance. Acts such as espionage, unauthorized contact with foreign intelligence entities, or support for organizations hostile to the U.S. are viewed as serious threats to national security. To maintain eligibility, applicants must demonstrate consistent support for U.S. laws, values, and interests through their actions, affiliations, and statements.

In security clearance evaluations, excessive or irresponsible alcohol use is viewed as a potential risk factor because it can impair judgment and increase vulnerability to coercion. Investigators consider whether alcohol consumption has affected your conduct, professional reputation, or compliance with the law.

If your clearance issues stem from a DUI or other alcohol-related offense, attorney Aden Wilkie provides skilled DUI defense in Jacksonville, NC, helping clients address criminal charges that could threaten their security clearance. By building a strong legal defense and guiding clients through both the criminal and administrative aspects of their case, Mr. Wilkie works to protect your career, your record, and your eligibility for continued clearance.

Past drug involvement, a diagnosis of substance addiction, or a relapse after rehabilitation can jeopardize your eligibility for a security clearance. Even limited or past drug use can raise red flags during a security clearance investigation, especially if it involves illegal substances or misuse of prescription medication. 

If your security clearance concerns involve drug charges, it’s important to work with an experienced drug charges lawyer who can provide aggressive defense strategies to reduce or dismiss criminal charges that may affect your clearance status.

Disclosing classified information to unauthorized individuals or intentionally breaching security protocols is among the most serious clearance violations. Such actions raise immediate security concerns because they compromise national security and demonstrate a disregard for established rules and procedures. Even accidental mishandling of classified materials, such as improper document storage or unsecured digital communication, can result in suspension or revocation of clearance.

Associations with foreign businesses, citizens, or governments that could exert pressure or influence on you may compromise your clearance. During security clearance investigations, officials assess whether personal, financial, or professional relationships abroad create conflicts of interest or increase the risk of coercion. For example, close family ties to foreign nationals can raise questions about divided loyalties or potential exploitation by foreign entities.

Holding dual citizenship, serving in a foreign military, or receiving benefits from another nation can create conflicts of interest that raise serious concerns during a security clearance review. These situations may suggest competing loyalties or obligations that could interfere with your ability to protect classified U.S. information.

Activities such as unauthorized system access, hacking, or disabling security measures are clear violations of IT and security policies. These actions raise serious security concerns because they threaten the integrity of classified systems and demonstrate a disregard for established cybersecurity protocols.

This doesn’t always mean a serious cybercrime must be committed, though. Downloading unauthorized software, sharing passwords, or simply accessing restricted networks without clearance can result in disciplinary action or loss of eligibility.

Financial considerations are among the most common issues reviewed during a security clearance investigation. Significant debt, gambling addiction, missed payments, poor credit history, or unexplained wealth can indicate financial instability or susceptibility to coercion. Investigators may view unresolved financial problems as signs of poor judgment or a potential vulnerability that could be exploited.

In security clearance investigations, outside employment, memberships, or volunteer work are carefully reviewed to ensure they do not conflict with national security interests. Participation in organizations that disclose classified information or share U.S. defense, intelligence, or technology secrets can result in serious clearance consequences. Even activities that appear harmless, like collaborating with foreign research groups or advocacy organizations, can raise red flags if they involve sensitive data or unauthorized communications.