Defending you and your career.

When everything you've worked for is on the line, you deserve strategic, compassionate, and zealous advocacy that stands with you and fights for what matters most.

Confidential consultation • Speak directly with an attorney • No obligation

Experienced Legal Defense for Federal Employees

When your career, reputation, security clearance, or TWIC credential is at risk, the stakes are too high for uncertainty. At Shield Law, we provide strategic, compassionate, and zealous legal representation for federal employees and contractors navigating disciplinary actions, security clearance issues, and credential challenges.

With dedicated experience in federal employment law and national security law matters, we guide clients through complex processes with clarity, precision, and strong advocacy every step of the way

 

Founding Attorney, Tonya Hardzinski

Primary Practice Areas

Security Clearance Defense

Protect Your Clearance and Your Future

If your security clearance is essential to your career you could benefit from a security clearance attorney. We provide strategic representation including SF-86 or e-QIP review, written responses to Supplemental Information Requests or Statement of Reasons, full representation at DCSA AVS appearances or DOHA hearings, and more to protect your eligibility.

TSA TWIC Credential Assistance

Help with Your TWIC Credential

TWIC credentialing issues can stop your career goals in its tracks. Whether you need a second chance, need to appeal a preliminary denial, or request a waiver, we may be able to help restore eligibility with clear, persuasive written advocacy. 

Federal Employment Defense

Defend Your Federal Career with Confidence

Facing suspension, removal, or disciplinary action? See how a federal employment law attorney can help you protect what matters most. We build strong, strategic responses that can help protect your rights, reduce penalties, and safeguard your future.

Expungement

Strategic Expungement for Federal Careers

Do you have a criminal charge still showing on your background check? In Virginia, and in some military contexts, eligible charges may be expunged from public record. For federal employees and clearance applicants, this can reduce red flags. A federal employment law attorney can guide you through this process.

Why Employees Trust Our Firm

Strategic Advocacy That Protects Careers

We represent federal employees and professionals across a wide range of high-stakes matters, including:

Focused Legal Defense for Federal Employees

Federal employment law operates under unique rules, procedures, and standards, where the consequences of agency action can be immediate and severe. Whether facing discipline, a misconduct investigation, a security clearance challenge, or a threatened denial of your TWIC credential, the stakes are high.

We provide strategic, informed representation designed to protect your career at every stage from early response through resolution. Timely legal intervention can improve outcomes, preserve employment, and minimize long-term impact

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I contact an attorney?

As early as possible. Early legal guidance can shape your response, protect your rights, and significantly improve the outcome—often before issues escalate.

Can I respond to a proposed action on my own?

You can—but it carries risk. These responses often determine the outcome of your case. Strategic legal advocacy can strengthen your position, address key issues effectively, and help avoid costly mistakes.

What happens if my security clearance is revoked?

You may have the right to appeal through a formal process, such as responding to a Statement of Reasons (SOR) and presenting mitigating evidence. A well-prepared response is critical to protecting your clearance and career.

How long does a TWIC appeal take?

Timelines vary depending on the case, but the process can take several weeks to months. Acting quickly and submitting a strong, well-supported appeal can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Will I have to disclose expunged charges?

In many federal and security clearance contexts, yes. Full and honest disclosure is required—but expungement can still help reduce concerns and support your overall case.

Do you offer flat-fee pricing for your services?

Yes. We offer transparent, flat-fee pricing so you know exactly what to expect, with no surprises. After an initial consultation, we provide a clear scope of representation and a tailored flat fee—so you can make informed decisions about protecting your career.

Protect Your Career Before It’s Too Late

If you’re facing a federal employment issue, security clearance denial or revocation, or a TWIC appeal or waiver, early action can make all difference, whether you’re in Virginia, nationwide, or a federal employee serving abroad.

Take the first step in protecting your career. Schedule a confidential consultation now to discuss your options and next steps. We accept a limited number of matters to provide each client with strategic representation.

Speak directly with an attorney • All calls are confidential • No obligation