Government work and clearances

[randomwords]

Hey all, I'm interested in pursuing federal government work when done with law school but I have one major concern.  Basically, if one were to apply for a department that requires a basic security clearance, would a misdemeanor arrest for poss. of marijuana that happened in high school, and did not result in a conviction(conditionlly discharged), realistically hamper the chances of acquiring a clearance?

If it matters, I'm intersted in eventually working for Health and Human Services, Dept of Labor, or perhaps EPA.

[lawdaddy]

Go to their web-site and check their minimum qualifications.   

For a Police Officer in Texas a misdemeanor is ok
as long as it's not a class B (in last few years)
or a classs A and above. 

Don't rely on this board - do your own research and check it for yourself.

[hotdiggity]

Call the orgainization and speak to them anonomysly they'll tell you

[squilla]

Not at all.  As long as you disclose it when you fill out the paperwork, it won't hurt you in the least.  Now, if you do not disclose it and they find out about it, then you're toast.