Is it possible to work for the government with a drug misdemeanor? I am a first time offender, but was recently found guilty in a case of "guilty by association".

Hello l:

Well, you can't be a cop, but I'm sure you can collect garbage.

excon

No, I'm not trying to collect garbage nor be a cop, I have a job offer with the government which is conditional based on a successful background check.

Hello again, l:

So, you're a first time offender... but you recently got convicted of something else?? Looks like TWO offenses to me, and one recent...

Look, if I was doing the hiring, a drug misdemeanor wouldn't stop me from hiring you... But, I'm not, and the gubment ain't as nice as me.

excon

This is my first & only offense ever.. I'm saying that it just happened this month. But I don't want this to affect my job offer because of the background check - that's what I'm worried about.

Hello again, l:

Ok, I got it. I don't know if it will deter them from hiring you, but I'll bet it will. Like I said, gubment ain't as nice as me.

excon

This is my first & only offense ever..I'm saying that it just happened this month. But I don't want this to affect my job offer because of the background check - that's what I'm worried about.


My feeling is it will show up and you will not get the job if it involves handling money or any type of security or privileged info.

This wasn't any type of fraud - it's a possession of marijuana charge

This wasn't any type of fraud - its a possession of marijuana charge



I say no, you won't pass a background check.

If the government doesn't hire you this time around, do not despair. Wait a bit and try to get your record expunged. Clearing your record will demonstrate to them that you've paid your restitution, excepted your punishment, have reformed, and are now trying to move on with your life and rectify your mistakes.
Don't give up. One offense is not a big deal-- everyone makes mistakes-- we are after all human.