Hello everybody! My names Sam and I'm new to this forum. Thanks for taking the time out to view my post. My question is, will I be able to purse my BSN or ADN with a felony charge as a juvenile? My concerns are if I'm allowed to be accepted into a nursing program, acceptance into clinical, and if I am able to sit for the NCLEX. I am currently living in VA. Here's a little background info on my case: I was 13 and living in FL at the time and I was charged with grand theft for shoplifting (amount was $316). I completed a diversionary program and was able to get the case expunged from my record. This case is about 7 years old since I am 20 now. My lawyer emphasizes that I was charged and not convicted, but I am unfamiliar with the terms and when I Google it they seem very similar to me. I have emailed the BON in VA and they replied saying every case is evaluated individually. The BON emailed me their regulations and what I have bolded really concern me since my charge falls under moral turpitude. BASIS FOR DENIAL OF LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION According to §54.1-3007 of the Code of Virginia, the Board of Nursing may refuse to admit a candidate to any examination, or refuse to issue a license or certificate, to any applicant with certain criminal convictions. Likewise, the Board may refuse licensure or certification to an applicant who uses alcohol or drugs to the extent that it renders the applicant unsafe to practice, or who has a mental or physical illness rendering the applicant unsafe to practice (referred to as a history of impairment). Criminal convictions for ANY felony can cause an applicant to be denied nursing licensure or nurse aide certification. Misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude may also prevent licensure or certification. Moral turpitude means convictions related to lying, cheating or stealing. I plan on talking to the nursing division at my school and being completely honest with them. As of now, I have a clean record (with minor traffic offenses EX. Running a stop sign), done some community service, and maintain a 3.8 GPA in college. Sorry for the long post but I really would appreciate some feedback on my situation. Thanks for your time guys!