Introduction: Understanding Courts-Martial in the Military A court-martial is the military’s version of a criminal trial. If a service member is accused of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), their case may be handled through this specialized legal system instead of a civilian court. Unlike civilian criminal courts, courts-martial operate under different […]

In many circumstances, the answer is yes.  If you are having to disclose potentially derogatory information or if derogatory information has been discovered about you, working with an experienced security clearance attorney will significantly improve your chances of obtaining or maintaining a clearance.  Just as importantly, the earlier you involve counsel in the process, the […]

The eApp was implemented on 1 October 2023 as the primary system to replace the eQIP for completing the SF-86 in federal employment.  The new portal has brought some useful features like autosave, timeline continuity, definitions/acronym explanations, and address verification.  Additionally, the system offers intuitive question branching, such that applicants are only directed to questions […]

The SF-86 requires the disclosure of employment activities (including periods of unemployment) going back ten (10) years.  It is not surprising that basic information about the employer, position, and supervisor is required, but so too is detailed information about the reason(s) for leaving that employment activity.  The investigators are looking for patterns of behavior that […]

On 5 March 2026, DCSA announced a new interactive tool that allows individuals to track the status of past or current investigations, communicate directly with agency personnel, and securely self-report information.  This platform is meant to align with the Trusted Workforce 2.0 initiative to modernize and improve the efficiency of federal personnel vetting by providing […]

A security clearance suspension is different than a denial or revocation.  It is an interim decision made when the government or agency becomes aware of derogatory information that raises questions as to the clearance holder’s current ability to protect national security information.  Examples of incidents that could trigger a clearance suspension include a positive drug […]

Receiving mental health treatment alone is not a reason to deny or revoke a clearance, and often it is a failure to seek and adhere to effective treatment plans that results in eligibility issues. When derogatory information about your mental health has been discovered by investigators that could impact your clearance, either because it was […]

On 27 January 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14183, Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness.  On 26 February 2025, the Under Secretary of Defense issued additional guidance on implementation of the policy.  The stated rationale is that the “medical, surgical, and mental health constraints … [associated with] gender dysphoria are incompatible with the high mental […]