Disclosure question Forum

[Adjudicator]

Some applications phrase their question about criminal records very thoroughly, "Have you ever been arrested or charged for any violation...."

But what about when all it says is, "Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony?"

I was charged with something 4 years ago that was charged as an infraction instead of a misdemeanor. I was all prepared to disclose it, already wrote about it and everything, but then I see this question and I can't honestly say yes. So do I mention it? I don't want the bar association to get upset about it later. But the way the question is worded is pretty unambiguous and the answer is truly "No."

[Adjudicator]

Does anyone want to weigh in on this? Normally I advise people "When in doubt, disclose," but in this case, with the way the question is worded, it feels pretty cut and dry. An infraction is not a misdemeanor or a felony. Will the bar association wonder why I didn't disclose it anyway, even though the school, in this case, really didn't ask?

[gdane]

Just disclose it. If its minor, then it probably wont hurt you in any way shape or form.

Good luck!

[sarahh]

You can answer no to a misdemeanor or felony and still include an addendum explaining it. When I called Berkeley, that is what they recommended I do.

[Adjudicator]

You can answer no to a misdemeanor or felony and still include an addendum explaining it. When I called Berkeley, that is what they recommended I do.

Thanks... as much as I didn't want to have to include it, I probably should, shouldn't I..

[tootrue]

Just answer the actual question asked.