Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Misdemeanor DUI & Board of Behavioral Sciences

In 2005 I was convicted of a first offense misdemeanor DUI. I am planning to attend graduate school this fall for my M.A. in Marital & Family Therapy. However, I am concerned that I will be unable to obtain my MFT license through the Board of Behavioral Sciences because of my conviction.

By the time I graduate from school, my three years informal, unsupervised probation will be finished. Does anyone know whether a misdemeanor DUI conviction will prevent me from getting my MFT license? Any advice will be greatly appreciated. I don't want to spentime and money on graduate school if I can't practice.

Thank you.


Asked on 4/27/06, 7:55 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Philip Iadevaia Law Offices of Philip A. Iadevaia

Re: Misdemeanor DUI & Board of Behavioral Sciences

I do not see a problem with obtaining a state license to engage in the business of your choice. Even if you have the record expunged (legally sealed), you may still be obligated to disclose the conviction on applications for state licensing in any field. Many attorneys have records (some worse than others) but were admitted to the Bar. Yours is a relatively minor offense. More egregious convictions (armed robbery, rape, assault, manslaughter) would pose a problem, but a misd. dui should not hinder you. Good luck.

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Answered on 4/28/06, 11:34 am
Arthur Khachatourians Tyler & Wilson

Re: Misdemeanor DUI & Board of Behavioral Sciences

Call me on my cellular so we talk in detail about this. Arthur K. 818.590.8294

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Answered on 4/27/06, 8:52 pm
Richard Wagner Wagner & Zielinski, A Professional Law Corp.

Re: Misdemeanor DUI & Board of Behavioral Sciences

You should contact a lawyer about getting the conviction dismissed (expunged) after you have completed your probation. I would be happy to help you.

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Answered on 4/27/06, 9:47 pm


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