Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 2/27/2010

Question
My husband has a harrassment constitution DV violation level a no jail time, no probation. the original charge was harrassment constuitution domestic violence misdemeanor "b" can he still join the military ie does he need a waiver for the harrassment violation? would getting it expunged be beneficial?

thanks

Answer
Dear Jennifer --

Your husband would need a waiver whether or not he gets the conviction expunged.  If his conviction is expunged, the waiver would be somewhat easier to get.  However, waivers are only available when the military is having difficulty recruiting.  Currently, most of the services are meeting their enlistment targets without using waivers.  Your husband would have to have the top standards in all other areas for a recruiter to consider working with him on a morality waiver.

Please write back if you have other questions.  Good luck to you and your family.