On this page, you can review branch specific policies when it comes to criminal convictions and a military career.

Army

• Waiver Potential: If the diversion program is successfully completed and the charges are dismissed, the recruit may still need a waiver to enlist, depending on the nature of the original offense.

Navy

• Severity Matters: Diversion for minor offenses, such as misdemeanors, is more likely to be overlooked than arrests for violent or drug-related crimes.

Air Force

• Case-by-Case Review: Waivers are less likely for serious offenses but may be considered for minor infractions resolved through diversion.

Marines

• Limited Waivers: Diversion programs for serious offenses (e.g., violent crimes, domestic violence) often disqualify recruits outright, while waivers for minor infractions are rare but possible.

Key Considerations for Recruits Who Have Used a Diversion Program

1. Honesty: Recruiters will ask about all legal interactions, including participation in diversion programs. It’s critical to disclose these fully.
2. Documentation: Providing proof of successful completion of the diversion program and subsequent dismissal of charges is essential.
3. Time Since Incident: The more time has passed since the incident, the better the chances of being granted a waiver, particularly if the recruit has demonstrated positive behavior since.

While a court-ordered diversion program that does not result in a conviction does not automatically disqualify a recruit, it can complicate the enlistment process. Each branch evaluates the circumstances on a case-by-case basis, and waivers may be necessary depending on the offense’s nature and severity. Transparency and evidence of rehabilitation are crucial in mitigating the impact on eligibility.

Background Checks and Moral Character Assessments

Background checks are an essential part of the military enlistment process, and they include a review of any arrest records. During these checks, the military assesses an individual’s moral character by examining their entire criminal history, including arrests that did not result in convictions. The presence of an arrest record may indicate a pattern of behavior that raises concerns about the individual’s ability to meet the high standards of conduct expected of service members.

The military places a strong emphasis on moral character, and individuals with a history of arrests may face additional scrutiny during the enlistment process. This is particularly true if there are multiple arrests, even if none of them led to convictions. A pattern of arrests may suggest a lack of discipline, poor decision-making, or a propensity for behavior that is incompatible with military values. In such cases, the military may be hesitant to grant a waiver or allow the individual to enlist, as they may be seen as a potential risk to unit cohesion and mission success.

Branch-Specific Policies on Arrest History

Each branch of the military has its own policies regarding arrest history, but all branches take arrest records into account when evaluating an individual’s eligibility for enlistment. The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines each have guidelines that outline how arrest records are to be considered during the recruitment process.

Army: The Army evaluates arrest records on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the nature of the arrest, the time that has passed since the incident, and the individual’s behavior since the arrest. The Army may require additional documentation or statements from the individual to assess their eligibility.

Navy: The Navy also reviews arrest records as part of its moral character assessment. Arrests that suggest a pattern of misconduct or poor judgment may lead to disqualification. However, the Navy may consider waivers for individuals who can demonstrate that they have learned from their past and have made positive changes.

Air Force: The Air Force places a strong emphasis on moral conduct and thoroughly reviews any arrest history. Arrests for offenses involving violence, substance abuse, or other serious misconduct are particularly concerning. The Air Force may consider waivers for minor arrests, but individuals with multiple arrests are unlikely to be considered eligible.

Marines: The Marines have some of the strictest policies regarding arrest history. The Marine Corps expects the highest standards of conduct from its recruits, and any arrest, even without a conviction, is subject to rigorous scrutiny. Arrests for violent or drug-related offenses are particularly problematic, and waivers are rarely granted in such cases.

Getting Help

If you are considering a career in the military, contact our office to learn more about how your Connecticut criminal conviction may impact your ability to join.