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In california can I become a psychologist with a criminal record?
Anonymous5 views3 answers
I was arrested for pety theft in orange county, I have my court date soon though
I'm not sure if i'll get a plea deal being this is my first and last time I get into trouble with the law. Now, I'm worried about my future, getting a first job, renting an apartment, and most importantly getting my career.
So whether my case is dismissed or if I'm convicted would I still be able to get my license in psychology?
You need to be very careful here and, if you have any tenable defense, you should contest this case through trial. If you wish to be licensed in California as a psychologist, any criminal record could well prevent you from obtaining a state license - definitely if convicted of a felony.
I presume the charge is a misdemeanor as you state it is petty theft. You must be aware that a subsequent expungement will NOT be an adequate remedy. Even if you plead to a misdemeanor, complete probation and have a subsequent expungement motion granted, you still must declare the fact of the conviction when seeking a state-issued license. If you fail to do so, you may be denied on the basis of lying on your application.
Even though a misdemeanor may not disqualify you per se from being licensed, it could well do so as conviction of a petty theft charge is one of moral turpitude. That could be used as grounds for denial of a professional license too.
All in all, your best course of action is to fight this charge if you can and you are strongly advised to retain a lawyer you feel comfortable has all these possible consequences in mind.
Call me if you wish to ask me further questions. 213-324-4206.
Neil Fraser
Was the offense caught on video? Ask for the video. Pursuant to Penal code section 1378, you could try to work out a civil compromise with the store directly. If they agree, then you request the DA to dismiss the case based on the civil compromise. The DA does not have to accept the civil compromise but sometimes they do.
Oscar E. Toscano
(818)241-0806
