Applying for license/NCLEX after arrest NEW JERSEY

Nurses Criminal

Published

Hi,

I am posting this in hopes of receiving some guidance in applying for my NCLEX/license.

On my application for license I have to disclose any arrests, even if never convicted -- dismissed or even if they were expunged.

In 2012 I was arrested for possession of marijuana, which was dismissed. -- I am less worried about this because I was a juvenile at the time, my state (NJ) has decriminalized marijuana, and the police report shows that I was basically unaware of that marijuana in the car because it was not my car.

In 2013 I was arrested for simple assault, which was also dismissed. -- This is the arrest that is making me nervous, obviously simple assault does not look good for a future nurse. This was an altercation between me and an ex boyfriend of mine. I had caught him cheating in my car with my best friend, and I got upset and did not handle my emotions properly. I was 18 at the time, now 27 and clearly understand that was not the right way to handle the situation. I hope they take into consideration this was nearly 10 years ago, and I am a completely different person now.

So my questions are:

1. In writing my letter describing what happened, how detailed do I need to be? I don't understand what exactly they are looking for when they say to explain the circumstances. 

2. Who exactly should I ask to write a letter of reference for me? I have asked one of my professors, two of my charge nurses, and a coworker of mine who happened to actually be the "other girl" in the simple assault incident, and also a now retired detective sergeant.

-First of all, do you think it is a good idea to have "her" as a letter of reference?

-Second, is it necessary to have a police officer?

 

Thank you so much, any advice is appreciated.

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I am too in process of applying for my NJ license. I submit all my documents (explanation letter, reference letter, court docs etc) with my initial application and fully disclosed on the app. I passed NCLEX 2/4 and I was told I'll be up for review this month, I'm guessing 3/4 because that's when the Board's next meeting is. From other people I've talked to about the explanation letter, I was told keep the letter factual based on what happened, explain how you've changed your life and talk about any changes you've made to avoid situations like that again. Also, be sure to take accountability for your actions and don't make excuses (this was the advice I was given).  My personal opinion, I think it's a positive to have her write a letter, because it shows you aren't hanging onto a grudge and you've moved past your negative behavior and also shows that it was a conflict that was personal to you and you don't just go around fighting random people. I would think that if they see you and "her" were able to move passed it, maybe they can look passed it as well. Question for you - did you disclose your background and then wait for the board to request all this info from you, or did you submit with your initial app? Praying everything works out in your favor!

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Thank you so much for replying! Congrats on passing your NCLEX! I plan to submit it with my original app -- because my friend who actually was involved in the first incident with me is now a nurse and she did not initially disclose it because she did not think she had to since it was dismissed, and they gave her a really hard time and it delayed her getting her license for a while. So, I'm trying to avoid that.

I do not graduate until May -- but I am hoping to have my application submitted by next week the latest, because apparently I am able to submit my application within 90 days before graduating and taking my NCLEX  I am just waiting on one more document.

 

Who did you have as your letters of reference? Thanks so much.

 

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Well I definitely think you're doing the right thing in submitting everything upfront to prevent further delays. So since she's a nurse I think it would be even better to have her write a letter also to show that they gave her a chance after the same incident theyre reviewing you for. I had 2 instructors and a friend of mine that I've known for over 10 years and also used to work with who is now a federal corrections officer write me a letter. Fingers crossed they issue me a license and don't review me any further!

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Hello! I am in a some what similar situation. I googled to see if there was anyone that had gone through what I'm going through. I'm on my last semester for my BSN and just learned today I'll have to submit all the court documentation for my past arrests to consumer affairs. I wanted to ask how this went for you? I'd appreciate any advice you give me! Thank you! 

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It actually wasn't bad, it was just extra paperwork. I heard of people getting called in for an interview, but I believe that was for people who were not initially upfront in their application. Just make sure you have everything you need so that it goes smoothly.

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Okay thank you so much! You've Altria most of my stresses! 

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lovecourtx said:

Thank you so much for replying! Congrats on passing your NCLEX! I plan to submit it with my original app -- because my friend who actually was involved in the first incident with me is now a nurse and she did not initially disclose it because she did not think she had to since it was dismissed, and they gave her a really hard time and it delayed her getting her license for a while. So, I'm trying to avoid that.

I do not graduate until May -- but I am hoping to have my application submitted by next week the latest, because apparently I am able to submit my application within 90 days before graduating and taking my NCLEX  I am just waiting on one more document.

 

Who did you have as your letters of reference? Thanks so much.

 

Hello how long did it take you to get your license number after taking the NCLEX? Did you go in person to submit any documentations? 

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Hello, 

I made the same mistake with not submitting the documents on the initial application. How long exactly did your friend who is a nurse wait to obtain her official license number after the NCLEX? Every time I call the board they do not have an answer for me, and it has been 3 months already. Is there anything I can do or anyone to contact to gain control of the situation? Thank you. 

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Specializes in Nursing.

Hi all I am currently in a similar situation. I checked no on my application cause I was under the assumption the cases were dismissed. I had to write a letter explaining details and why I checked no. I also had to submit dispositions from court as well as police reports. Now I'm nervous cause they explained I could be fined or not receive a license not because of the charges 22 years ago but because I didn't check yes on application. 

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