Expert: Jason Grabill - 1/4/2010

Question
I am 28,female,no children,no mental issue,no drugs,barely drink,good physical condition,some college credits (48),and an all around boring person.Spring 2009 I spoke with a recruiter and took a practice test for enlistment with the USMC.I received a near perfect score on both tests.In less than a month after one of my sisters and myself ended up in a very loud family argument concerning my father.She is the family criminal(currently on probation).We both received a ticket(summons)for breach of peace(misdemeanor).Neither of us were put in handcuffs or jail.While going to court to get the case dismissed there was a no contact restraining order on both sides with family court and I could not see my nephew(her son).My case was nolle and the restraining order was revised so I can see my nephew when I want.I do not know (or care)what happened with her case because I have been sticking to what the court set forth.I was told that the ticket is still considered an arrest even thought the case was nollied.I have never been put in handcuffs(well not against my own will-lol)so I don't understand.I was told by the court that I have NO RECORD. Another sister of mine is an officer in the Army(currently away) and says that I should forget the Marines and try to enlist with the Army as an officer instead. She says they are a little more lenient and "will let a killer enlist".I have character letters (for job references)from my pastor,soup kitchen director where I volunteer, etc. Aside from being born into a crazy family I think I'm a pretty nice girl.My Army sister says the Marines won't let me in with an "arrest" and the "no contact order"(restraining order) regardless of my test scores and intelligence (Psychology major).I can try to get in contact with my first recruiter.I have also been researching waiver options.I just do not want to take one persons(the good sister)advice and try to get in the Army when I want to be a Marine.Will the "arrest" and "restraining order" disqualify me from my first choice(Marines) or even my second choice(Army)? I am willing and determined to prove that I should serve my country because I think its an honor. Thank you in advance (even if its not the answer I want to read) P.S. I have already worked at the Veterans Hospital (good government job)in the past.

Answer
Tori:

 If it was an appearance ticket only, then you were NOT arrested.  It's sort of like getting a 'major' traffic ticket or a bench appearance ticket.  Doesn't count as an arrest UNLESS you are taken into custody.  

 Your army sister is wrong (like the Army usually is).  

 Go talk to a recruiter who'll set you straight and get you started.  

All the best,

Jason