Expert: Jason Grabill - 9/28/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hey, I'm 18 years old from North Carolina...I was just wondering if I could join the marine core with a felony and a G.E.D.. Concerning the two I was 16 years of age when i was convicted of a Common Law Robbery (non-violent) crime. I did 144 days and I'm about to end my 3 year probation term. As for my G.E.D. I recieved that in 2 weeks, I scored very high on all of my classes and didn't have to take any classes. I just took the tests and passed all of them with ease. While I was in high school i did do JROTC and JROTC Drill Team and still good friends with the master sergeant (marine). I've always wanted to be either a marine or army soldier but with my G.E.D. and Felony, I keep hearing that the best I could do is get in the Army. But I would love to be part of a elite unit such as the marines. I have great references who are in the military and some with military background. I'm also in peak physical condition and think I would do well on the asvab test. Sorry to make this so long but i wanted to explain myself and the situation. Thank you very much for your time.

ANSWER: Daniel:

  You might be able to enlist into the Marine Corps, but you'll have to check with a recruiter to find out if you are eligible due to that conviction.  It's likely you are NOT eligible, but the juvenile thing is the only saving grace, unless you were tried and convicted as an adult.  (If that is the case, you won't be eligible).

 The GED is another issue, the recruiters can tell you exactly what you'll need credits wise, if any, to enlist with that.

Jason

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Jason,

Thank you for your reply and honesty. I have one last quick question for you, is there any chance of maybe getting in the Army with the felony ? Or is that the main rule for all branches ?

Answer
Daniel:

  While it is a 'main' rule for most branches, the chances of service in the army are greater at this point.  And, after the army, you can always re-enlist into the Marine Corps!   (IF you have a succesful enlistment). Something to consider for sure.  Talk to a recruiter and they can get you started.

Jason