Can a security clearance background check be put on hold until my probation is lifted?

A background check for a Secret security clearance is about to be initiated for me. The problem is that I am on summary (informal) probation for about 9 more weeks. This was a stupid, immature thing that I have moved past, and have no problem being honest, and I don't thing this will be a problem in my clearance check.

My problem is that the background check is being initiated now, when I do not need to be cleared until May (about 6 months from now), and I will not be lifted from summary probation for another 9 weeks. Will the investigator see this, and sit on my file until after the probation is lifted? Or will they stamp a big NO on my file once they see the probation? I would really like some advice on this? Would it help if I went out and got a lawyer to get off probation ASAP? I'd hate to see this bad timing screw me over. Please help!

I believe there are two issues. First, was this probation mentioned when you applied for whatever job this security clearance requires? The other issue is IF this offense in and of itself disqualifies you from getting this job. I doubt you could put this issue "on hold". That would raise red flags with your employer.

I have a buddy with TS clearance who WAS on probation for some stuff he did a few years back. I guess he just had to explain what happened and how it was a bad choice. He wasn't on probation at the time though so I'm not sure how that would effect your investigation. I doubt (unless it was a felony or something) that your probation will kill the clearance. You could always mention it to your employer and see what they say, chances are they will find out anyways.

Did you disclose this information when you completed the online paperwork for your background check? If you did then, just wait and see what happens.

If you did not - don't worry, you are not going to get a clearance.

What I would like to know is who even considered you for a 'position of trust and responsibility' when you are on probation?

No. Telling the company to hold off will just provide a huge hint that something is up.

As far as getting clearance, it really depends on the company and their policies. For example, some companies won't deny clearance for minor things, but some companies won't give clearance if you have anything on your record.

Were you upfront about the fact you are currently on probation? If you weren't, you probably won't get the clearance because you weren't honest in the first place.

I wouldn't bother getting a lawyer to get you off probation early because it's probably not going to help. If you're really interested in getting off early, I'd speak to whatever unit is supervising you (the court, admin probation, etc.). If you've been an excellent probationer and completed your conditions right away, they may let you off early.