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Hello!

I have a questions regarding the character and fitness section of the law school application. Some of the schools that I am applying to say that they want records even if they have been expunged and/or sealed. I am concerned about this section because when I was 13 (maybe 14), I got caught stealing cheap jewelry from a Claire's store at the mall. The mall security called my parents to pick me up, but I was never handcuffed, the police were never called, however, I was ordered to do some community service hours (I think only 50 hours). I am now 24 years old with a bachelors degree and a masters degree applying to law school and I have never been in trouble with the law since. This incident happened so long ago that I hardly even remember the details like who ordered me to do the community service, etc. My mother told me that since I was so young, it was probably never even on my record to begin with and therefore never needed to be expunged. I never had a lawyer to deal with this either. Should I disclose this on the application?

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It may be something that needs to be disclosed whether it is on your record or not because you were ordered to complete community service. If that is the case, there is likely some record of this incident. Please note, it will likely be something to disclose when you apply to the General Bar when completing the Moral Character and Fitness Application.