Expert: Loren Stevens - 3/25/2010

Question
hi, if i was charged with a felony and it was adjudication withheld can i become a correctional officer.

Answer
Hello Shari,
Rather than answer this, it might be best if I point you in the right direction.
First, I would suggest you speak with an attorney, with expertise in labor law.
You need to research the state you are wanting to work, and ascertain what the state regulations are on a situation like this. If it was registered as a felony, like a nolo contendre plea, it still counts as a felony conviction.
In any law enforcement job, even in corrections, there is an expectation that you would be trained and certified with fire arms. If your felony was recorded as a conviction, or is viewed as such, you can no longer have a fire arm in your possession.
I'm assuming this is a local/state incident, and not a federal case.
And, not knowing what kind of a case this was, limits the range of my response.

The short answer is for you to consult with an attorney, and then armed with that counsel, consult with the agency human resources supervisor and inquire if their "administrative policies" are such, that you would have a shot, or be viewed as ineligible. It's a fair shot.

Otherwise, you will need to talk with the attorney about sealing your case, or a petition for a Governor's pardon... All things for you to explore.
Good Luck,
Hope this is helpful
loren