Receiving a Statement of Reasons (SOR) can feel overwhelming—but what you do next is critical. Once you acknowledge receipt, the clock starts ticking. You are given a limited window to respond to the allegation(s), and failing to submit a timely response is treated the same as not responding at all.
This is not a process you want to navigate alone.
At JAG Defense, our security clearance attorneys help clients understand and respond effectively to proposed denials or revocations of your clearance. Early legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.
Several factors influence how your case will be evaluated, including:
- The level of your clearance
- The agency sponsoring your clearance
- Whether you are a federal employee or government contractor
- The number and seriousness of the allegations
- How recent the alleged conduct is
- The availability of mitigating information or context
Our team works closely with you to build a strong, strategic response. We can:
- Explain the process clearly and set expectations
- Evaluate your options, including whether to request a hearing or personal appearance
- Draft a comprehensive response designed to address and mitigate the government’s concerns
- Represent you during hearings or personal appearances
Maintaining a security clearance is often essential for career advancement—and in some fields, it’s a requirement to stay employed. A misstep at this stage can limit future opportunities.
Before submitting any response or documentation, it’s important to consult with an experienced security clearance lawyer. The right guidance can help protect your career and give you the best possible chance of a favorable outcome.
Justyn Ann Baxley is a Partner with JAG Defense. Her practice primarily focuses on security clearance law and administrative law. As a security clearance lawyer, Ms. Baxley has represented hundreds of individuals in security clearance adjudications across virtually every federal agency, to include the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Energy, the National Security Agency, NASA, and others.
