Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 7/22/2008

Question
I would like to apply for Judge Advocate General in one of branches of the armed forces.

I have exercised induced asthma.  It is easily controlled with a puff of my inhaler before strenuous exercise.  What are my chances of getting this waived? I also take Paxil daily for generalized anxiety (nervousness). What are my chances of getting this waived?

Lastly, is it very difficult (competitive) to get a direct commission to JAG if you meet the requirements?

Answer
Dear John --

Getting a direct commission is very difficult.  However, if you are a practicing lawyer, and have no criminal record, excess debt, psychological or substance abuse issues that would keep you from getting a security clearance, you have a good chance of getting a direct commission, if the services are looking for lawyers.

The need for lawyers varies from month to month.  The summers usually have plenty of new JAG trainees, because of all the new college graduates.  But if a service doesn't need you now, try again in the autumn, and there may be a need.

Your medical issues are more worrisome.  The exercise induced asthma, could easily be waived, but the dependance on Paxil is far less likely to be waived.  The only way to know for sure is to speak to a JAG recruiter and begin the process.

Good luck to you.