Expert: William Payne - 4/11/2008

Question
Mr. Payne,

I chose you to ask for the fact you are fairly local.  I am in North Carolina.  About 1 year ago i was charged and convicted with a Class 2 Misd. Simple Assault.  The punishment was 18 months supervised.  

Before the age of 18, (15-17) I had a couple, what i would call "domestic" complications, while being the defendant, my legal aid and I welcomed and asked for a restraining order to be issued on both parties, myself included.  

There was a accusation of domestic violence, but no conviction.  In this particular case, a restraining order was asked for and welcomed by my lawyer and I.  

I also have a couple minor traffic violations such as speeding and a seatbelt violation.

I have spoken with the local contact person for the BLET (Basic Law Enforcement Training)program, and she seems to think that the assault conviction should not be a problem.  

I am not doubting her, but would like to get a second opinion.

What do you think my chances are?

Thanks Again

D Vincent

Answer
D. Vincent,

Thanks for the question,

There will be a lot of agencies that will be hesitant in hiring you or putting you through and application process, but other agencies probably will not mind.

If you are still under a restraining order or order of protection, your chances will probably be zero. If you are still under supervision, your chances will probably still be zero.

You need to be clear and free of any charges (supervision) before you can be considered.

My recommendation is to wait a couple of years and see if you can get your record expunged.


Good luck and best wishes!