Expert: Howard Lorenz - 2/7/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hello Mr. Lorenz
I am interested in enlisting in the army as a warrent officer. I have about 800hrs in helocopters with commercial, instrument, cfi, and cfii ratings.

i have an investigation going on right now for possible misdemeanor hit-and-run charges. I have not been charged as of yet but I was wondering what my chances are of being accepted if if i am charged and convicted.

ANSWER: Jesse,

A misdemeanor is less than a felony, it shouldn't really effect you getting in. I would wait till you get the results of your case first. You cant enlist with an open violation... finish that first.

Then after depending on what you receive, then go an talk to the recruiter. They will determine if you will need a waiver or not...

HW

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: As of now I haven't been charged with anything and no warrants. Is it still better to wait and see if I ever get charged before I talk to a recruter? If I am accepted and charges should come up can I be kicked out of flight school? If yes, would I be liable for the 6 year contract (i.e. would I be peeling potatoes for the  rest of my career?).
Last question-I have heard that if you already are a civilian pilot and you join, you are only obligated to remain in for 6 years if you make it through flight school. Would this work in my situation if this is true?

Answer
I would be getting with your lawyer to see what the D.A. is going to do. It makes a huge difference!!  Even though you havent been charged, you still have an "Open" Law violation.

As for the 6 of ten, ther eis a scale that the services follow in regards to what you will be responsibile for...

I would worry about first things first...