Other Criminal Procedure Do I need a Pardon

[Guest]

I was convicted of two felonies and one misdemeanor 20 years ago in Michigan. I have since completed a bachelors degree, been a foster parent for the county I live in, and never had any lapses of employment. I want to become an attorney and before I make the investment in that I want to know how likely it would be to take the bar with my past?

 

[pleslie]

I was convicted of two felonies and one misdemeanor 20 years ago. I have since completed a bachelors degree, been a foster parent for county I live in, and never had any lapses of employment. I want to become an attorney and before I make the investment in that I want to know how likely it would be to take the bar with my past?

 

[disagreeable]

Very unlikely. Send a letter to the bar asking if these would automatically disqualify you.

 

[army judge]

I was convicted of two felonies and one misdemeanor 20 years ago. I have since completed a bachelors degree, been a foster parent for county I live in, and never had any lapses of employment. I want to become an attorney and before I make the investment in that I want to know how likely it would be to take the bar with my past?

Some states will look at how long ago you committed your crimes, the nature of the crimes, and how much you've rehabilitated yourself in the intervening years. As suggested, write the Michigan Bar and ask, also the NY and CA Bars, as those states are somewhat lenient as they review your life. Other states that have been known to show discretion in law school and bar admissions: FL, WA, OR, MN, NJ, MA, PA, OH. Yeah, there's a pattern, and I'm sure there are others. Good luck.

Before you get that far, ask the law school you're considering attending. The law school may not consider admitting some felons, all will ask about your criminal history. Be prepared to discuss. In fact, most law schools want an essay describing your criminal endeavors and convictions, prepare one for your application.