What functionality does the adjudication process serve?

The adjudication process is integral to security clearance and personnel security management. Its primary function is to assess and determine whether an individual is suitable for access to classified information based on established criteria, which often involve evaluating the individual's background, behavior, and any potential risks they may pose to national security. This process involves a thorough review of relevant information, such as criminal records, financial history, and personal conduct, to ensure that only trustworthy individuals are granted access to sensitive data.

By focusing on the appropriateness of access to classified information, the adjudication process plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security interests. It involves making informed decisions that weigh the individual's past behaviors and personal circumstances against the responsibilities that come with access to classified material, thereby ensuring that those entrusted with sensitive information can be relied upon to act in a manner consistent with security needs.