Legal Question in Criminal Law in Wisconsin

disorderly conduct charge affects on career and record

I was charged with disorderly conduct. I paid the ticket. I would like to become a teacher in Wisconsin. Will this appear on my record if they do a background check? If yes, for how long? Does the school district have the right to access the information about the nature of the incident? Will it affect my chances of getting and keeping a job?


Asked on 11/10/01, 8:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

John A. Birdsall Birdsall Law Offices, S.C.

Re: disorderly conduct charge affects on career and record

If this was just a "ticket" it was likely just an ordinance violation and therefore not a criminal charge. If the question is posed: "have you ever been convicted of a crime?" you can answer "no" because this is a non-criminal offense (just a civil forfeiture). If it was a "state" charge, however, you must answer "yes." This may be problem given the recent publicity of felons being hired by MPS. Most districts, however, will allow DC's to pass unless the competition is really tight. Can they investigate? Yes. Will it show up on the Crime Information Bureau report? Not if it is a ticket. A misdemeanor will. If they want to know about even tickets, you must disclose and they can investigate. Can they use it as the sole reason to deny employment? You will need to consult an expert in employment law. My information right now is that they can't unless it is a felony. That may have changed - I do know there was a bill pending on that subject. Feel free to contact me with any questions.

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Answered on 11/10/01, 9:33 pm


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