Need reassurance on conviction

[KevinN]

Hi everyone, about 15 years ago, when I was 18 years old, I was charged with possessing an illegal knife ( the kind that clips to your belt inside a case). At the time I had no idea it was illegal, but as the officer told me ignorance of the law is no excuse. This conviction was reduced to a class C misdemeanor (same as a traffic ticket) and I paid a two hundred-dollar fine. This charge is worrying me now since I am starting the nursing program next month. My wife, who works for the constable's office, checked my criminal history and I have nothing on it, including this charge. However, I went to the BON website and noticed that I must submit a petition for declaratory order if I answer yes, to "Have you ever been convicted of a crime other than minor traffic violations? So now I must send the BON a $150.00 money order, go to the court house and get a copy of the charges, get a 2 x 2 photo, get two letters from someone who can vouch for my character and submit several other letters and forms. This is a little inconvenient, but what is worse is that I must wait 6-9 months minimum to find out if I am eligible to take the NCLEX. I am a little worried that I will not be able to finish the program and get my license. I have had several people, including the Dean of Nursing, tell me this charge shouldn't be a problem. However, I am still worried. Does anyone see a problem with me getting a nursing license because of this charge? Six to nine months is a long time to worry.

Thanks for your help,

Kevin

[renerian, BSN, RN]

Gosh I feel for you. I guess your going to have to do some hoop jumping now. Don't give up-press on.

renerian

[P_RN, ADN, RN]

Never lie about anything like that. You are going to have to walk the tightrope on this, but everyone seems to have given you excellent advice and instructions. Good luck.

[Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN]

Better to be honest about it even if it isn't showing up right now. My school's policy was that if you even forgot to inform the program director even of a speeding ticket, you were still a liar, and banned.

[legsmalone, RN]

I would keep on top of this now.

One of my classmates is still waiting for the BRN to ok her IP and take boards regarding an old DUI. She has been open and on top of things from day 1, however, the BRN still has the right to decide things in their own time. So she is jumping through all the hoops. Good luck to you as you start school and good luck with all the fun hoop jumping!

[rileygrl11, BSN, RN]

I don't see any reason why there would be a problem for you. The problem would be IF you weren't upfront about it and it came to bite you in the a*s later on down the road. Jump through the hoops and be open and honest about it. Good luck!