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Is anyone knowledgeable about youthful offender charges?

I have a very serious question for all those who can help. I received a D.U.I. when a was a bit younger at the age of 20. I regret what I did for many reasons and would never repeat that action now that I fully understand the consequences, but what has been done is done. Anyhow since I was 20 at the time of the charge I plead youthful offender status and was granted it. Some years later after buckling down I am about to graduate from an ABET accredited Mechanical Engineering program and will soon start seeking employment. I am curious as to what the consequences of my previous mistake will be when searching for a job. I did well in school (received a scholarship etc.) but am worried that this will inevitably come back to haunt me. I need to know who can see the charge for jobs that both require and don't require security clearances. Do I mention the charge when asked about criminal past or no? Ive been told different things by some somewhat unreliable sources. Any and all accurate information would be greatly appreciated as this is indeed a dire matter for me =(. Sorry I forgot to mention that the sate is Alabama. <sigh> typo *state

Public Comments

1. It's essential you include your state when asking a legal question each state is like a different country with their own laws. If your were not convicted, you got any other finding then 'guilty' regardless of punishment. You may be able to have it expunged (records sealed) ---------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------- If you have to get a lawyer it will be money well spent although with enough research you can do it yourself. Section 1. (a) A person who has been charged with a misdemeanor criminal offense or traffic violation may file an application in the court in the county or municipality in which the charges were filed or the court that dismissed the charges, to expunge all records relating to the charge in any of the following circumstances: (1) When the charge is dismissed with prejudice. (2) When the charge is dismissed without a guilty plea to another offense. (3) When the person has been found not guilty of the charge. (b) The charge was dismissed and the person has not been convicted of any other crime during the five-year period. http://www.legislature.state.al.us/SearchableInstruments/2007rs/Bills/HB583.htm
2. Since it was not a felony, I would not mention it when they ask about criminal history on an application (unless it says specifically, ANY criminal history). Most employers are understanding when it comes to "youthful offenses", and are more interested in your recent past. If any questions arise, you should be truthful and explain to them your situation. OR you can be upfront about the whole situation, and when you turn in your application, just say something like "just a heads up, when I was 20...) I wouldn't worry too much though. It shouldn't hold you back in your career. I've known people with worse offenses get good jobs after settling down and "growing up" a bit. Good luck!
3. A first offense DUI isn't a felony, so with most jobs, you'll check 'no' to that and be done with it. If a potential employer is going to run a back round check on you, they'll tell you. In that case, you can be up front about this incident, and they will tell you what their company's policy is. Doubtful that one incident will completely rule you out of any engineering job. I wouldn't worry about it too much. Good luck.