Q Clearance Worries – I was stupid when I was younger

[Paul22]

So it looks as if I may be putting in the paperwork for a Q clearance soon. For the last 5 years I have kept myself clean and have been working very hard. Before that however I did some stupid stuff. Right now Im wondering if it is even worth the time and trouble to fill out the paperwork. Since this forum is (relatively) anonymous, Ill just be frank about it and see what you think since there are three things I feel pretty pessimistic about.

1 - I used to smoke weed on and off 5+ years ago and experimented a couple times with MDMA and cocaine about 6-7 years ago.

2 - I have about 5k in child support arrears (which I have been working on paying off for some time now). When they go to interview the ex, I have a feeling Im not really her favorite person if you know what I mean.

3 - fourteen years ago I got a misdemeanor conviction (trespassing) which was sealed via Y.O. status.

So for those of you who have been there and done that – is it even worth my time filling out the paperwork? Or should I probably be ok as long as I am 100% honest about everything?

Also, before 5 years ago, I moved around a lot (4-5 different places), and I do not remember the dates I was there, nor do I have any idea on how to get in touch with some of the people I knew back when I lived there. What do you do in that situation?

[thenukeman]

There are previous posts on here about Q clearances, You can check archives, But the jest of these and I have had a Q clearance, is be completely honest especially if you have been clean for awhile.  Even tell them about your sealed Juvenile stuff. Tell everything.  I think you will be Ok even if Ex wife is called. 

[Paul22]

hmm ok, thanks. I looked through the previous posts, but they mostly seemed to have to do with one issue, and I have multiple so I am concerned. I guess if it dosent work out, Im pretty much in the same spot I am now anyways...

[SloGlo]

paul22.... watts the worse that can happen?  they say no?  will you be any worse?  that's what i'd say is the primary concern for you.  now, if you don't get a q clearance and stand a chance to lose your present employment, then it may be worth really thinking about.  butt, if current employment is a stand alone item, then i'd go for the q.   

[Marlin]

So it looks as if I may be putting in the paperwork for a Q clearance soon. For the last 5 years I have kept myself clean and have been working very hard. Before that however I did some stupid stuff. Right now Im wondering if it is even worth the time and trouble to fill out the paperwork. Since this forum is (relatively) anonymous, Ill just be frank about it and see what you think since there are three things I feel pretty pessimistic about.

1 - I used to smoke weed on and off 5+ years ago and experimented a couple times with MDMA and cocaine about 6-7 years ago.

2 - I have about 5k in child support arrears (which I have been working on paying off for some time now). When they go to interview the ex, I have a feeling Im not really her favorite person if you know what I mean.

3 - fourteen years ago I got a misdemeanor conviction (trespassing) which was sealed via Y.O. status.

So for those of you who have been there and done that – is it even worth my time filling out the paperwork? Or should I probably be ok as long as I am 100% honest about everything?

Also, before 5 years ago, I moved around a lot (4-5 different places), and I do not remember the dates I was there, nor do I have any idea on how to get in touch with some of the people I knew back when I lived there. What do you do in that situation?

Ditto the honesty part. If you have the opportunity to start a Q with an employer do so, with the increase in work load on visas and passports the length of time to complete a Q is increasing as though it did not take forever as is.

[Mike_Koehler]

They have seen everything when it comes to the stupidity of youth......... I was probably one of your stupider youths and I have had Q clearances. Just be honest and be prepared for the "final interview". After they have completed the investigation, they will want to talk with you to "resolve" any questions that come up. This is your chance to impress them with how far you have come as a responsible human being...... Don't bash the ex, if they ask about her comments just state that you do not currently get along with her and leave that topic behind. If they ask about your "sealed" priors, explain that you were young and foolish and have learned better. If they ask about your substance abuse, be prepared to show evidence that you have been clean since. I got many different clearances with at least as shaky a background as you have. It is all about your attitude!!!! If you show them that you are willing to go the extra mile (or even inch) to help put aside their concerns, they will work with you.....   Good luck, Mike

[alphadude]

the child care situation may have serious implications for the clearance. in some states you may be considered for arrest. they pull your credit rating and if you are below 600 it may be a while before you get interviewed  or go for the fast track which is 3 days and then u will know.

[Paul22]

I appreciate all the replies, thank you!

alphadude - considered for arrest? How so, I have spoken with the office at the state, and I am making good on my word to pay the monthly amount plus some for arrears, Ive cut it in half from almost 10k. It shows up on my credit reports (just pulled them about 20 min ago), but its the only financial negative on there. While it is overdue I am paying it down slowly but surely. What is meant by "fast track"?

[wp_913]

Helloo all,

been lurking about here for while, All this conversation about clearances suggested that I send you all this very interesting link, actual cases about DOD clearances being either denied or allowed, Check it out, all interesting reading, also, the DOE cases are not much different, same logic applies, good stuff to know and be aware of. this also pretty much confirms what everyone is telling you, honesty, redemption and proving you are improving your situation goes a long way.

http://www.dod.mil/dodgc/doha/industrial/

[retired nuke]

Helloo all,

been lurking about here for while, All this conversation about clearances suggested that I send you all this very interesting link, actual cases about DOD clearances being either denied or allowed, Check it out, all interesting reading, also, the DOE cases are not much different, same logic applies, good stuff to know and be aware of. this also pretty much confirms what everyone is telling you, honesty, redemption and proving you are improving your situation goes a long way.

http://www.dod.mil/dodgc/doha/industrial/

Very helpful to many here - Karma to ya for sharing...

[B.PRESGROVE]

Hey just my 2 cents here, I got a clearence with not the best (cough, cough) credit, was arrested for shootin a government sign while hunting, owed a little child support (making payments at the time), and had about 400 different jobs.  If they will give me one, and remember I was totally honest about all of it, then they will give anyone a clearance.  BE HONEST!!!!  When they ask what you are doing to clear the child support up dont do like I did and jokingly say, "Um yah about that, would having your ex disappear for no good reason seem suspicious to yall?", for some reason they didnt see the humor in that statement.  Still got my clearance though.