You are probably very familiar with the traditional “security clearance,” which gives a person access to classified information. The security clearance is not granted to just anybody; it is only granted to personnel who have passed a background investigation. Essentially, for someone to receive security clearance, he or she must be able to prove the following:
- They are loyal to the United States.
- They are a person of good moral character.
- They have sound judgement.
- They do not have a drug or alcohol problem.
- They are honest and reliable.
While the above may not sound complicated, it takes some time for an applicant to pass the background security investigation. According to the U.S. Department of State, investigators who conduct the person’s background investigation contact law enforcement agencies where the person attended school, lived, and worked. Investigators also “talk to current and former neighbors, supervisors, co-workers, as well as to the references an individual provided.” Clearly, the background investigation doesn’t happen overnight. However, sometimes an employer is in a hurry to have an employee take a position that involves security clearance. In these situations, the employee may be granted an “interim security clearance.”
The Interim Security Clearance
Under exceptional circumstances, security clearance may be requested by a hiring office. If approved, the Office of Personnel Security and Suitability may decide to grant an interim security clearance to certain individuals. If a complete security package is submitted, an interim security clearance may be granted within a few weeks. From there, the final security clearance is usually granted in less than three months. Are you considering obtaining an interim security clearance? Whether you are already preparing your security package, or are concerned about a possible denial, our skilled and knowledgeable lawyers can be of great assistance to you.
Contact Claery & Hammond, LLP to speak with one of our security clearance attorneys.
