Nervous About My Criminal Record Forum

[LSATclincher]

I'm nervous about an underage drinking violation and a DUI from roughly 4yrs ago. I did submit an addendum. Any encouragement is appreciated.

[Pricer]

I just submitted an application today with two addenda, one explaining my DUI/MIP/fake ID charge from freshman year (five years ago), and the second explaining my one year probation from the school (directly related to the criminal charge, not a separate time). I'll let you know how it goes. Last year, when I was first going through applications and asking for advice, I received mostly positive responses when I asked the same question. Many told me that a single instance that occurred a few years ago would not hinder an application as long as I disclosed all details and made sure to explain that it was not a reflection of my true character (which is easy to BS and nearly impossible to distinguish from the rare sincere story). Drug charges would most likely be a little different, but this was the general response for the alcohol charges I received.

Edit: This advice was given to me when I asked the question geared toward UGA, Emory, and Vandy. I would imagine that the T-14 are a little stricter.

[AreJay711]

What is done is done. If it does get you dinged somewhere there isn't really thing you can do about it now. Good luck to you though.

[LSATclincher]

Thanks for the positive words, folks.

[amg414]

I don't know how high you are aiming, but I have two drug arrests (one from 7 years ago, one from when I was 13) and I got into two schools so far this cycle with no issue. Just be honest and leave them with the sense you learned from your mistake.

[DocHawkeye]

I had a DUI in 2004 and was cited for failure to prove financial responsibility (i.e.: no insurance). The second charge was dismissed. I have disclosed these and a handful of other traffic violations (mostly speeding, only when required). So far, I have been admitted to three of the seven schools to which I have applied. I have not yet heard from the remaining four. One of these schools in a top 50 school.

I went so far as to contact the supreme court in the state I would ideally like to practice upon graduation. They indicated that a DUI charge would not be a serious stumbling block to bar admission. I hope this helps!

[Pricer]

I went so far as to contact the supreme court in the state I would ideally like to practice upon graduation. They indicated that a DUI charge would not be a serious stumbling block to bar admission. I hope this helps!

When talking to a few older, practicing lawyers, I received a response from all of them that was something along these lines: If a DUI kept you from being a lawyer, there would be a lot less of them in the world. I know it was somewhat of a joke, but most acknowledged the stereotypical alcoholism of lawyers and said a DUI in undergrad should not be a problem. These guys were old school Southern lawyers.