Nursing school with a misdemeanor

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I was arrested in March of 2014 for shoplifting 2 inexpensive necklaces. I have a clean record, I have never done it before this incident and I will never do it again. It was the stupidest moment of my life and after meeting with my lawyer today I am hating myself more than ever for it. After being informed that I probably will not get deferred prosecution with counseling to get it off my record, my only hope of it being dismissed soon is if the witness from the store does not show up. Not likely seeing as it is a huge chain store. So it will be on my record for 3 years until it can be expunged. I contacted the nursing school I am going to and they said my junior year I get a background check and it depends on the charge as to whether I can continue in nursing school or not. I have a misdemeanor in shoplifting, first time offense, eligible to be expunged after 3 years. Does anyone know if this is a charge they would probably let slide? Additionally by the time I am done with nursing school it will be about the same time that I graduate and take the NCLEX. If it is not yet expunged can I even take the NCLEX? Help is beyond greatly appreciated seeing as I am losing my mind.

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Specializes in Dialysis.

You need to contact your state BoN

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Moved to Nursing Licensure with a criminal history forum

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I was able to attend nursing school after I got my DUI conviction expunged. I am in CA. I'm not sure about the NCLEX, I'm sure I will hit a tall brick wall when I get there. But I am optimistic...sorta.

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Specializes in ER/Tele, Med-Surg, Faculty, Urgent Care.

Each state is different but even misdemeanor offenses of theft could be grounds for denying licenses. Also you will be asked if you have a criminal history when you apply for license & for jobs.

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In MI, I have two theft convictions and was able to get into a program and do clinical with no questions asked. The hard part comes for licensure and sitting for the NCLEX but you won't ever get there if you don't try. Absolutely try to get it expunged, it will look better when licensing comes around but as far as getting into school goes, they will accept you as long as you meet the time restrictions and requirements.

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