Very thin line. Need help

[Scot86]

Hello, 

I really need some help to give me a better understand of where I stand. I am looking to get into the nursing program here in Kentucky. My issue is my past DUI conviction. To this day It's something I regret ever doing, not only because of the occupational consequences that I may face but for ever having allowed myself such a substantial lapse in judgment. My situation is so razor close that I am not sure if it would be a good idea or not to apply. In 2015 (8 years ago as of this post) I was charged with an aggravated DUI because I had blown a 0.16 which is twice the legal limit. Before and since I have not accrued any other criminal charge. The charges were lessened to a misdemeanor because of a plea agreement. I had to pay a bunch of fines and court cost and attended 10 sessions of classes as well as losing my license for 6 months. It was a rough period in my life but it has definitely left me changed. Now I am desperately wanting to become a nurse, I said it has left me changed and it has. I just want a life where I can help my community, not harm it but because of these charges I don't know if I would ever be allowed to get my nursing license. I don't think they will accept an aggravated DUI but I'm not sure if they will look at that or what I was convicted of. Or maybe all of it will be taken into consideration. Being that the aggravated DUI would be a hard no and the misdemeanor would be a soft maybe I am not sure where I stand. Would someone be able to give me some advice? I just need to know if I have a shot at all. Thank you to everyone who responds.

[trixie333, ASN]

I feel you have an excellent chance as long as you continue to maintain the most excellent reputation you can like you have done for the last 8 years.

If you have too much anxiety about it, then retain a nurse-lawyer now to help you with future hurdles regarding your legal history. Many times, if a hiccup arises on your journey, it can be quickly resolved by a letter from your lawyer. Sometimes a DIY response will take longer. See if your lawyer recommends you get notarized copies of your court adjudications for possible  needs as you journey through the education process. You can get those on your own at the courthouse of where you were adjudicated. You may never need them.

Every professionally-connected application will ask for an explanation of what happened in your own words. Prepare one that is matter of fact and ends with your current status and moral resolve. You should be OK, just a little extra time and investigation involved in the future.

Some states do not allow DUI's to be expunged, but if that is possible in Ky, do it-8 yrs. of clean record is good. A lawyer can do this for you. You can't hide the expungement from licensing boards, but it still works in your favor.

Courage- best of luck to you- there are a lot of licensed professionals working now that have had to travel this road. Wishing you an awesome nursing career.