Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Domestic Violence

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Expert: - 9/10/2010


Question
I served in the Marine reserves from 1999 to 2005. After serving I was charged with domestic violence 3rd against my ex-wife. I have talked with the district attorney about the charge reduced or even dismissed and I have a court date coming up the end of this month and the DA told me to just have a recruiter come to court with me and tell them exactly what needs to be done for me to enlist. When I went and spoke with an active duty army rec. he just told me no and left it at that. So I was wondering if there is a way if the charge is reduced or dismissed to allow me in the army I would like to go active but if not is there some way to go reserves if charge is changed and I obtain a waiver?

Answer
A domestic violence convictions, dismissed for any reason that requires you to do something like anger classes, makes you inelif=gible to serve in the military for life.  No waivers are authorized.  You can thank congress for that under the Lautenberg amendment.

Your only chance is being found not guilty or dismissed outright with no conditions.  such as the prosecutors decides not to follow thru with charges for lack of evidence, or a  nolle prosse.

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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