Can You be drafted with a felony?

Can You be Drafted with a Felony?

The idea of being drafted into military service can be a daunting prospect for many individuals. However, for those with a felony conviction, the prospect of being drafted can be even more intimidating. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question "Can you be drafted with a felony?" and delve into the implications of having a felony conviction on one’s military service.

Direct Answer:

No, you cannot be drafted with a felony conviction.

In the United States, the Selective Service System is responsible for maintaining a list of eligible males between the ages of 18 and 25 for potential military service. However, individuals with a felony conviction are exempt from the draft. According to the Selective Service System’s website, individuals with a felony conviction are considered "ineligible" for military service.

Why are individuals with felony convictions exempt from the draft?

Individuals with felony convictions are exempt from the draft for several reasons:

• Moral Turpitude: The Selective Service System is concerned that individuals with felony convictions may have demonstrated a lack of moral character, which could compromise the integrity of the military.
• Criminal Behavior: Felony convictions often involve criminal behavior, which could pose a risk to the safety and security of the military and the country.
• Risk of Recidivism: Individuals with felony convictions are more likely to reoffend, which could put them and others at risk.

What are the implications of having a felony conviction on military service?

Even if an individual is not drafted, having a felony conviction can still have significant implications on their military service:

• Ineligibility for Military Service: As mentioned earlier, individuals with felony convictions are considered "ineligible" for military service.
• Bar to Military Enlistment: Many military branches have a "bar to enlistment" for individuals with felony convictions.
• Background Checks: Military branches conduct thorough background checks on potential recruits, which can uncover felony convictions.
• Security Clearance: Individuals with felony convictions may not be eligible for security clearances, which are required for certain military positions.

What are the exceptions to the rule?

While individuals with felony convictions are generally exempt from the draft, there are some exceptions:

• Moral Waiver: Some military branches may grant a "moral waiver" to individuals with felony convictions, allowing them to enlist or be drafted.
• Expunged Convictions: If an individual’s felony conviction has been expunged, they may be eligible for military service.
• Pardoned Convictions: If an individual’s felony conviction has been pardoned, they may also be eligible for military service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, individuals with felony convictions are exempt from the draft in the United States. The Selective Service System is concerned about the potential risks and implications of allowing individuals with felony convictions to serve in the military. While there are some exceptions to the rule, having a felony conviction can still have significant implications on an individual’s military service. It is essential for individuals with felony convictions to understand their options and the potential consequences of their criminal history on their military service.

Table: Selective Service System Eligibility Criteria

Bullets List: Implications of Having a Felony Conviction on Military Service

• Ineligibility for military service
• Bar to military enlistment
• Background checks
• Security clearance
• Potential for moral waiver or expunged/pardoned convictions