My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: California

I recently finished a master of social work degree and received a job offer. 6 years ago I was cited for a minor is possession of alcohol (age 19), at arraignment I did not offer a plea and instead was offered a alcohol class and community service, when I returned to court my case was dismissed. How will this information impact my future employment? My employment involves supporting youth with mental illness. My livescan was sent to the FBI and DOJ. My understanding is that in CA only convictions can impact employment, although I know there are exceptions such as police etc. Because I am hoping to work in a healthcare setting with children, I am not sure if this applies. The MIP was the result of a terrible choice I made to drink a beer at the beach when I was 19 and I am truly embarrassed of this record.

I have passed previous background checks for similar work but it was for an internship for school and may not reach the same level of scrutiny. Any advice or suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thank you.

Good question. See, when you go into a career like healthcare especially with children or elderly, the criminal background information becomes a lot more important. So even an arrest could deter you. Licensing for a professional field take into a account all criminal information, including arrests and dismissed cases. Does this job require you to be licensed? In either case, these jobs are looking for people who are of good moral character. A person with a criminal background obviously doesn't appear to be of moral character. What you have done in between the case and now will matter to them. Volunteer work is a big help. Reputable references that can testify that you are of good character can also help. If you're ever questioned, submit all of that info. Have people you have worked for write letters of recommendation commending all your hard work and good moral character. They won't just take your word for it.