Can You Go to the Military with a Misdemeanor?
The United States military has strict eligibility requirements for enlistment, and one of the most important factors is a person’s criminal history. While a felony conviction can automatically disqualify an individual from joining the military, the situation is more complex when it comes to misdemeanors. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question: Can you go to the military with a misdemeanor?
What is a Misdemeanor?
Before we dive into the specifics of military enlistment, it’s essential to understand what a misdemeanor is. A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is considered less serious than a felony. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by a fine, imprisonment for less than one year, or both. Examples of misdemeanors include:
• Disorderly conduct
• Simple assault
• Petty theft
• Possession of marijuana
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
Military Enlistment Requirements
To join the military, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements, including:
• Being a U.S. citizen
• Being at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 years old (without parental consent)
• Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Passing a physical fitness test
• Meeting height and weight standards
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
Misdemeanor Convictions and Military Enlistment
So, can you go to the military with a misdemeanor? The answer is yes, but it depends on the circumstances. The military has a process for evaluating an individual’s criminal history, including misdemeanors. Here are some key points to consider:
• Type of Misdemeanor: The type of misdemeanor is crucial in determining eligibility. For example, a misdemeanor conviction for possession of marijuana may not be as severe as a conviction for domestic violence.
• Severity of the Offense: The severity of the offense is also important. A misdemeanor conviction for a minor offense, such as disorderly conduct, may not be as severe as a conviction for a more serious offense, such as theft.
• Time Since Conviction: The time since the conviction is also a factor. If an individual has been convicted of a misdemeanor in the past, but it was a long time ago, it may not be as significant as a more recent conviction.
• Other Factors: Other factors, such as the individual’s age at the time of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the offense, and any subsequent rehabilitation or treatment, may also be considered.
Military Enlistment Process for Individuals with Misdemeanor Convictions
If an individual has a misdemeanor conviction, they will need to go through a more extensive evaluation process before being accepted into the military. Here are the steps involved:
- Application and Initial Review: The individual submits an application to join the military and undergoes an initial review.
- Background Check: The military conducts a background check, which includes a review of the individual’s criminal history.
- Moral Waiver: If the individual has a misdemeanor conviction, they may be required to submit a moral waiver, which is a request for a waiver of the military’s enlistment standards.
- Board Review: The individual’s application and background check are reviewed by a board of military personnel, who will consider the individual’s criminal history and other factors.
- Final Decision: The board makes a final decision on the individual’s eligibility to join the military.
Table: Military Enlistment Process for Individuals with Misdemeanor Convictions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Application and Initial Review | Submit application and undergo initial review |
| 2. Background Check | Conduct background check, including review of criminal history |
| 3. Moral Waiver | Submit moral waiver request, if required |
| 4. Board Review | Review application and background check by board of military personnel |
| 5. Final Decision | Make final decision on eligibility to join the military |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a misdemeanor conviction can make it more challenging to join the military, it is not necessarily a barrier to enlistment. The military has a process for evaluating an individual’s criminal history, including misdemeanors, and will consider a range of factors before making a decision. If you have a misdemeanor conviction and are interested in joining the military, it’s essential to consult with a recruiter and undergo the enlistment process to determine your eligibility.
