Introduction
If you were acquitted of a serious offense, you might wonder whether this would impact your ability to join the military. Surprisingly, the answer is mostly yes. The process, however, involves several critical steps and considerations. This article will explore the complexities of joining the military with a not-guilty verdict, focusing on the required procedures and the factors that might impact your application.
Background Investigation and Disclosures
Submitting Your Background Investigation Application
When applying for military service, you will be required to submit a background investigation form. This form will include a question about whether you have ever been charged with a crime. The critical importance of honesty here cannot be overstated. You should answer "yes" and provide complete, detailed information about any charges, even if they were acquitted.
Providing Relevant Information
Provide the specific details of the alleged offense, the court where you were charged and acquitted, and the date of the verdict. If you have any supporting documentation, such as court orders or police reports, you should attach them as well. The military will verify this information with the appropriate court.
Consequences of Concealment
Concealing or hiding the fact that you were charged, even if it was expunged, can have significant negative consequences. If the military discovers this information, it could result in permanent disqualification from joining the military, not just because of the charge but also because of the deceit. Be prepared for the possibility that a false official statement could be charged against you.
Security Clearances and Additional Scrutiny
Central Clearance Facility (CCF) Process
If you are applying for a job that requires a security clearance, the process becomes more thorough. The Central Clearance Facility (CCF) will conduct a deeper investigation into your background. It's important to note that just because you were acquitted, it does not mean the CCF won't scrutinize your history further to determine if you pose a security risk.
The CCF can consider any potential security risk, even if the original charges were acquitted on a technicality. For instance, they might investigate whether you might have been involved in the incident, despite your acquittal, due to certain patterns of behavior proven in court. This could include repeated traffic violations or public intoxication, leading to a security clearance denial.
Success in Undergoing a Deeper Investigation
However, if the CCF is satisfied that you have cleaned up your act, you are less likely to face issues. If they find that you are now stable and have not engaged in similar behavior, they might grant you a security clearance. If you still pose a potential risk, they might deny your clearance entirely.
Alternative Career Fields
If your security clearance is denied, you might still be eligible to join the military but may be assigned to a different career field that does not require a security clearance. This is because the military considers two very distinct factors: risk and legal guilt. Just because you were not found guilty legally, it doesn't necessarily mean you are not perceived as a potential risk.
Avoiding Major Disqualifications
Ensuring Thorough Documentation and Cooperation
To avoid major disqualifications, it is crucial to provide accurate, comprehensive information to the military. If you are required to submit documents or answer questions, do so promptly and thoroughly. Failing to respond to their requests for information can also result in a denial of a security clearance. Providing them with all available information, even if it is not directly related to the original charges, can demonstrate that you are trustworthy and willing to cooperate fully.
Conclusion
In summary, joining the military with an acquittal record is generally possible, provided you provide full and accurate details of the charges to the authorities. The military's primary concern is your honesty and verifiability. While security clearances may require deeper scrutiny, if the CCF is convinced you have addressed any underlying issues, you are likely to be accepted. Always be honest with the military and avoid any form of concealment. Doing so can significantly improve your chances of being accepted into the military.