Polygraph Help

Not all security positions require a polygraph (lie detector) test of their applicants. When such a test is required, however, it is best to know ahead of time what to expect. Lawyers at The Edmunds Law Firm have 30 years of experience in helping to prepare people applying for national security jobs, including preparing clients to take a polygraph.

The polygraph is a machine that measures someone's physiological responses to being questioned in order to determine if he or she is telling the truth. Physiological measurements taken during a polygraph exam include:

• Heart rate
• Blood pressure
• Respiration
• Skin conductivity

The presumption is that a person's physiological reaction reflecting nervousness to a question could signify a false answer. If heart rate, blood pressure, respiration and perspiration increase in a certain way, someone might be seen as lying.

The test is designed to take into account the fact that most persons taking it are nervous to some extent to begin with. In addition, some authorities discount the test's accuracy. In 1998, the Supreme Court found that no consensus exists about whether the test results are factual. The Court said polygraph test results provide only another opinion for the jury to consider.

A primary purpose of the test is to determine if a person can be trusted with secret or sensitive information. Two kinds of polygraphs may be used: counterintelligence and lifestyle. Either one of the tests or both may be given.

Counterintelligence Polygraph

Counterintelligence polygraph questions someone on their involvement in or knowledge of spying activities. This test is used most often in security clearance investigations. It is given to find out if someone is a good candidate for a special assignment or can be trusted with secret information.

Lifestyle Polygraph

Lifestyle polygraph is used to determine how vulnerable a person might be to blackmail or intimidation. The questions are meant to learn about a person's personal history, past experiences and previous and current behavior. Questions that might be included on a lifestyle polygraph could concern a person's:

• Sexual misconduct
• Family relationships
• Drug or alcohol use
• Other addictive behaviors
• Mental health

Preparing for a Polygraph

The Edmund's Law Firm attorneys provide the following common advice to people about to take a lie detector test:

• Get a good night's sleep the night before the test
• Take all medication you normally take
• Don't skip meals
• Maintain your regular routine
• Arrive early for the test
• Allow a considerable amount of time to take the test

Regardless of a lack of consensus on the value of a polygraph, it is essential to be prepared. If you would like to speak with a qualified national security attorney about ways to prepare and what to expect, please contact The Edmunds Law Firm today.