character and fitness explanation addenda Forum

[doomcannon]

When considering application to law school, I didn't think that any events in my past would pose character and fitness obstacles. However, on reviewing the wording of the questions asked on applications, I find myself obligated to include several pages of documentation and explanation:

1. An Explanation of Prior Criminal Charges
Includes two speeding tickets and an unlawful possession of alcohol by a minor.

2. An Explanation of Academic Warning
Why I received an academic warning, the surrounding circumstances, and what it indicates about my academic career and future potential.

3. An Explanation of Disciplinary Actions
The least glorious of the three, describing infractions against myself and the general peace while in my freshman and sophomore years in college.

All infractions are minor and none involve dishonesty. However, this seems like a lot of baggage to attach to my otherwise very well-qualified application. Today I wrote an "explanation of explanations" cover letter to tie them all together. The retelling is cathartic, and the incidents are very much in my past, yet the ensuing 3-4 page addendum makes me nervous. Am I doing this wrong? Has anyone else had to write such prolific documentation of their past sins? Comments appreciated.

[kalvano]

It doesn't need to be Shakespeare, make them short and to the point.

[Billy Batts]

When considering application to law school, I didn't think that any events in my past would pose character and fitness obstacles. However, on reviewing the wording of the questions asked on applications, I find myself obligated to include several pages of documentation and explanation:

1. An Explanation of Prior Criminal Charges
Includes two speeding tickets and an unlawful possession of alcohol by a minor.

2. An Explanation of Academic Warning
Why I received an academic warning, the surrounding circumstances, and what it indicates about my academic career and future potential.

3. An Explanation of Disciplinary Actions
The least glorious of the three, describing infractions against myself and the general peace while in my freshman and sophomore years in college.

All infractions are minor and none involve dishonesty. However, this seems like a lot of baggage to attach to my otherwise very well-qualified application. Today I wrote an "explanation of explanations" cover letter to tie them all together. The retelling is cathartic, and the incidents are very much in my past, yet the ensuing 3-4 page addendum makes me nervous. Am I doing this wrong? Has anyone else had to write such prolific documentation of their past sins? Comments appreciated.

This shouldn't fill up one entire page.

[rocaveli]

Agreed. Four pages is way too long - if the events are 3-4 years in your past, best to mention them in passing and be done with it.

[amolson04]

Yes, I agree as well.

[JDO]

Hello,

I pled not guilty to being a minor of possession of alcohol inside a vehicle. Should I just state that I pled not guilty but was later found guilty by the court and leave it at that? I was 20 years old, I am 24 years old now.

Thanks in advance!

[Billy Batts]

Hello,

I pled not guilty to being a minor of possession of alcohol inside a vehicle. Should I just state that I pled not guilty but was later found guilty by the court and leave it at that? I was 20 years old, I am 24 years old now.

Thanks in advance!

I would say something like "I was cited for minor in possession of alcohol in 200x in Mayberry, AK. It was a municipal charge, and I paid the fine in full."