become a paralegal with a record?

Moderated by: Displaced Legal Professional
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Comments (8)

Spudbone2003 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

5 months ago

Is it possible to become a paralegal even if u have 3 drunk drivings on your record?

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Paralegal in Carrollton, Texas

5 months ago

The paralegal profession is not regulated. There is no license to obtain or maintain. You are just at the mercy of the lawyer and/or firm you apply to. Some do background checks, some don't. I would not tell anyone about it though. With so many paralegal applicants in the world the competition is stiff and the firms can be picky. My guess is if they know about it during the application process, it will be a dealbreaker. Unless, of course, you speak Spanish, which might very well trump 3 DUIs.

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J in Wilton, Connecticut

4 months ago

If you are concerned about your past record, you can apply for an expungement of records three years after a misdemenor charge to the board of paroles. You may also apply for a provisional pardon, for employment purposes.

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paralegaladvisor in Broomfield, Colorado

4 months ago

It is best to be honest about this on your application because if the firm does a background check they will wonder why you lied. No law office wants to hire a dishonest person.

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Michael in Jasper, Georgia

3 months ago

How do I go about getting a expungement and or a provisional pardon in colorado? (so I can get a legal employment)

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Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

3 months ago

Moderator

Try calling the court in which you were tried. You probably need to see an attorney licensed to practice in Colorado to complete the process.

You also have to be honest about your past history. No exceptions. Law firms hold their employees to the highest standards of honesty and integrity. Lying about your past is grounds for termination, and lies are found out sooner or later.

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Michael in Jasper, Georgia

3 months ago

3rd degree assult is something you dont want to bring up about your past..it has haunted me for years..i did admit to it, i stood like a man and took all the punishment the law has to offer but it has affected my jobs. I could not even become a police officer due to the assult. So I hope you understand where i am comming from

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Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

3 months ago

Moderator

I understand where you're coming from, but, again, you have to be honest if you hope to have a chance. And you have to understand the legal industry has the highest honesty and integrity standards. After all, clients place their affairs and trust in your hands.

That said, as a practical matter, as stated above, many firms conduct employee background checks. You could be denied employment or be fired if you lie and are found out. Aside from living down your third-degree assault rap, you'd also gain the reputation as a liar.

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