Expert: John L - 12/13/2009

Question
Hello,

This has been on my mind for a long time as I have always wanted to join the military. Where to start, I'm 34 years old, have a bachelor degree and lots of life experience in all facets. I have three misdemeanors on my record, criminal trespass, harassment,(those charges from 1996)  complicity (2009), also 4 dismissed charges, drug abuse, possession, criminal tools, drug instruments.(2008). Now my brother was with me when I  received those charges, because I was driving I got the charges too. He received the same charges and has since passed away (OD'd),the stuff was his, he had a serious problem.  All the dismissed charges have been sealed by courts. All that shows up on a BCI is one misdemeanor. Now I know the military has access to everything,just wondered if the courts would seal them from public if the military would grant some leniency. I've never had a dirty drug test or anything like that. Currently, I'm on probation for one misdemeanor. My probation officer will release me if I find employment outside of my home state or join the military. I know of the probation exclusion premise.My credit is not so good and driving record either. I graduated with a 2.96 and have an IQ of 146. My work is that of an Orthopaedic trauma consultant, I attend serious trauma cases and provide support to Ortho surgeons.It is a six digit job, but money doesn't make the man. I have a sense of wanderlust to serve, regardless of pay. Do you think I can get into the Navy or Army,  what about OCS with waivers and excellent letters of recommendation. And if all else fails if I complete a Law Degree would I be qualified for direct commission. Please be brutally honest!  

Thanks,

Nick-

Answer
OCS will not happen for you based on several factors, the criminal record being one.  Being on probabtion bans you from joining until your probabtion is up plus 6 months.

Your age is also a factor, while age waivers can be granted, it would depend on the overall quality of the applicant.

Your best bet if you want to serve is the National Guard after your probabtion is over plus 6 months.

Sealed records do not matter for military service, so all that comes to light.

Beacause of your back ground, I think you would have trouble getting in enlisted even with a waiver though.  Just being honest.  With that state of recruiting what it is, there are more qualified candidates out there.