Interviewing & Disclosure of Arrest?

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Hello,

Does anyone know the rules to what you are supposed to disclose during an interview as far as arrests for the Nurse Associate position (am a junior in school)? I was asked the question during an interview that is also standard on job applications, "Have you been convicted/found guilty/nolo contendre to a crime?" I said "no", but am wondering if this was the right response. I was arrested at a checkpoint over the summer for a DUI, but was not convicted at the hearing. I am on probation currently, and have gone to the required classes. My attorney told me that since I was not convicted, I do not need to disclose this information. I was not "charged" because it was my first and only offense of any kind. I am very embarrassed about it, but am worried that when the employer performs the background check my arrest will show up. Should I call the employer and speak with the HR person I interviewed with to clarify the intentions of her question in order to disclose this before it may display on the check, or should I stay still and see what happens? I am very concerned because this employer is my first choice and where I would like to remain in the future as an RN as well.

Confused & worried!

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Specializes in Corrections, Education, Med/Surg, AGNP-HIV.

How are you not convicted but on probation? Not sure i understand. I would go with your lawyers advise. You only have to answer the question and if you were not convicted of anything you should not report it as that is what the question was and you are being truthful in your answer.

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How are you not convicted but on probation? Not sure i understand. I would go with your lawyers advise. You only have to answer the question and if you were not convicted of anything you should not report it as that is what the question was and you are being truthful in your answer.

That is what I was wondering. I don't see how someone can be on probation if they were not convicted of anything.

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There is a difference between being arrested for something and being convicted of something. I would pay particular attention to the wording of the question on the application and answer accordingly.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

Did you please 'no contest'? If so, that is English for nolo contendre, and should be disclosed.

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