Navigating the security clearance process can be complex, stressful, and at times, overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for your first clearance, appealing a revocation, or fighting a denial, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. But how do you choose the best security clearance lawyer to represent you?
At the National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we know what it takes to fight for your clearance—and win. With over 90 years of collective experience, our team of former federal employees and military lawyers understands the unique challenges of security clearance cases from both sides of the table. Here’s what you should look for when choosing your security clearance lawyer:
1. Federal and Military Law Expertise
Security clearance cases are a specialized area of law, requiring deep knowledge of federal regulations, government procedures, and national security concerns. Your lawyer should have extensive experience in handling security clearance matters and a strong background in federal and military law. Ideally, you want a lawyer who has worked inside the federal system—someone who knows how government agencies operate and who can leverage insider knowledge to benefit your case. At NSLF, our attorneys have served in federal positions themselves, which gives us unparalleled insight into the bureaucracy you’re up against.
2. Experience with the 13 Adjudicative Guidelines
The federal government evaluates security clearance applicants and holders under 13 Adjudicative Guidelines, covering everything from financial considerations to foreign influence. A seasoned security clearance lawyer will understand how to address concerns raised under these guidelines and will have a track record of helping clients successfully navigate them. Whether you’re dealing with issues related to foreign contacts, financial debt, or past legal problems, your attorney should know how to counteract negative factors and highlight your reliability, trustworthiness, and sound judgment.
3. Proven Success in Appeals and Hearings
If your clearance has been denied or revoked, you need an attorney with a strong track record in security clearance appeals. Look for a lawyer who has successfully represented clients before the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), federal agencies, or military tribunals. Experience in the courtroom is crucial—your lawyer should be comfortable presenting complex arguments, cross-examining government witnesses, and advocating for you in high-stakes environments. At NSLF, we pride ourselves on being a fearless, battle-hardened team—much like an elite military unit—who fights vigorously for our clients at every stage of the clearance process.
4. Ability to Navigate Bureaucratic Hurdles
One of the key challenges in security clearance cases is cutting through the layers of bureaucracy that often slow down the process. An effective security clearance lawyer will know how to overcome administrative obstacles, gather crucial evidence through FOIA requests, and challenge improper delays or unjust decisions. Our attorneys at NSLF are well-versed in these strategies and work tirelessly to get results for our clients, maximizing case value through incremental gains along the way.
5. Strategic Insight and Custom Solutions
No two security clearance cases are exactly alike. Your lawyer should offer more than just cookie-cutter solutions—they should be able to craft a custom strategy tailored to your specific situation. This requires a deep understanding of national security law, as well as the ability to anticipate potential roadblocks and counter them effectively. At NSLF, we approach every case with a mission-focused mindset, determined to protect our clients’ careers and livelihoods. We are committed to providing tailored advice and taking the steps necessary to help you achieve a favorable outcome.
6. Transparent Pricing and Free Consultations
At the National Security Law Firm, we understand that security clearance cases can be financially stressful, which is why we believe in offering transparent pricing from the outset, giving you peace of mind from the start. Here’s what you can expect:
- Responding to a Letter of Intent (LOI): $3,500 flat fee. This covers all necessary legal work to respond to the LOI and begin defending your clearance.
- Statement of Reasons (SOR): $5,000 flat fee, with a $3,000 credit for the LOI. If your case progresses to a SOR, we apply a $3,000 credit from the initial LOI fee to ensure you aren’t paying for overlapping work.
- Hearing: $7,500 flat fee (including travel). If your case reaches a hearing, this fee covers all associated legal work, including travel expenses, so you won’t be surprised by additional charges.
The only additional costs you may incur are for any experts we recommend for your case, such as psychologists or financial advisors. However, these experts will only be brought in with your approval, ensuring that you maintain control over any further expenses.
At NSLF, we take pride in offering free consultations, which allow you to meet with our experienced attorneys and receive a thorough assessment of your case with no upfront commitment. We believe that choosing the right lawyer shouldn’t come with hidden fees or inflated costs. With us, the price is locked in from the start—no surprises, just clear, transparent pricing for top-tier legal representation.
To further ease the financial stress, we also offer flexible payment options through Pay Later by Affirm, allowing you to break down your legal fees into manageable payments. With Pay Later, you can choose a payment plan that works for your budget, giving you the flexibility to pay over time.
Learn more about how our Legal Fee Financing with National Security Law Firm can provide you with affordable payment solutions while securing the representation you need.
7. Proximity to Washington, D.C.
Why does location matter? Washington, D.C. is the hub of federal employment law, where the relevant agencies and courts are located. Choosing a security clearance lawyer based in D.C. can provide a significant advantage, as your attorney will have close relationships with key agencies and be readily available for hearings and meetings. At NSLF, our location in the nation’s capital enables us to stay connected with the decision-makers who handle security clearance matters, giving us an edge in representing our clients.
Meet the NSLF Team: Experienced and Battle-Hardened Advocates
At the National Security Law Firm, you’ll be represented by a team of elite military lawyers who bring decades of experience and an unmatched understanding of security clearance law. Our attorneys have navigated some of the most challenging cases and are well-versed in the legal and strategic nuances that define this complex field. Here are some of the key members of our team:
- Brett O’Brien: As our founding partner, Brett brings over 14 years of experience advising on security clearance matters. His work spans both advising federal agencies and litigating cases before the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), offering our clients a unique advantage through his strategic insights and deep legal expertise.
- Luke Rose: With more than 15 years as a federal intelligence law attorney, Luke’s career has been defined by his work advising commanders on security clearances and related issues. His insider knowledge of the security clearance process makes him a critical asset, providing our clients with a distinct edge in complex cases.
- Alan Ott: Alan’s extensive 30+ year career within the federal government, including serving as a Senior Executive Service (SES) intelligence law attorney, positions him as one of the most experienced attorneys in the field. His work advising intelligence agencies on security clearance matters offers clients an unparalleled level of insight and guidance.
- Carl Marrone: Carl is a seasoned litigator who has served as both a prosecutor and defense attorney in the U.S. Army and as a prosecutor for Los Angeles County. Known for his aggressive courtroom style and impressive litigation skills, Carl is a relentless advocate for his clients, making him the attorney you want fighting for your security clearance.
- Sean Rogers: With 17 years of military litigation experience, Sean has represented clients as both a prosecutor and defense attorney in high-stakes cases. His skills in the courtroom have transferred seamlessly to security clearance law, leading to numerous victories for his clients through his tireless preparation and mastery of the law.
At NSLF, our team’s combined experience and battle-hardened approach ensure that you’ll be in the best possible hands when defending your security clearance. We are not just lawyers—we are advocates who understand the high stakes involved in these cases and fight relentlessly to protect your career.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.
Your security clearance is essential to your career and your future. Don’t leave it to chance—trust a law firm with the knowledge, experience, and dedication to fight for you. At the National Security Law Firm, we’re more than just civilian lawyers—we’re former federal employees who understand the stakes, the rules, and the system. It’s our turn to fight for you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call 202-600-4996 or visit our website to book a free consultation with one of our experienced security clearance attorneys. The National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You!
