If you’re like many people who are considering joining the military, you’re wondering whether you can join the military with a criminal record.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for this question, but here’s what you need to know.
Joining the Military With a Criminal Record
The military requires recruits to have what they call a “high moral character,” but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get in if you have some type of record. In fact, the military sometimes grants waivers to people with existing criminal records. That said, it may be a good idea to have your arrest record expunged if you intend to join the military.
What Expungement Means
If your record is expunged, it no longer exists. You will still need to tell your military recruiter that you have been arrested in the past – it’s illegal to lie to gain enlistment into the military – but in the absence of a criminal record, you won’t need a waiver to get in.
How to Get Your Record Expunged to Join the Military
Not all criminal records are eligible for expungement. However, if yours is, you may want to talk to an expungement lawyer in Chicago who understands how the laws work and how to begin the expungement process
Your lawyer needs your entire criminal record to get started. He will file a petition with the court to have your criminal record cleared, and if the state’s attorney objects, you’ll most likely have the opportunity to tell your site of the story in court through a hearing. Your lawyer can represent you at that hearing and argue your case.
Are You Trying to Join the Military With an Arrest Record Behind You?
If you are trying to join the military and you have an arrest record, we may be able to help you clear it to make the process easier.
Call us at 847-920-4540 or get in touch with us online to find out whether you are eligible for an expungement that may help you join the military.
