5 answers
Rochele
Student
New Marlborough, MA
2
Questions
Asked
1398 views
Is law enforcement the best fit for me?
Since I was young I have always enjoyed learning about the judicial system, criminals, and the fields of law enforcement etc. But do I have what it takes? I mean I don’t necessarily want to become a police officer. However, criminal psychology, csi, and the K-9 unit all interest me. I’m just lost.. #criminal-justice #law-enforcement
Login to comment
5 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1738
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Rochele,
There are MANY different ways to be involved in the criminal justice system. As far as I know, K9 is a specialized assignment within law enforcement. There are both police officer and civilian CSI positions. Civilian ones are listed as "Evidence Technicians," or something similar. We have them here in San Antonio.
Do I have what it takes? Good question! Even in civilian positions, you are expected to be of high moral character. Evidence Techs need to be physically fit, for squatting, bending, lifting, crawling, to whereever the crime scene happens to be. You will see and smell some pretty gross stuff. Such as a corpse inside of a septic tank. No exaggeration. You will need to be able to be completely objective in your work, regardless of how heinous the crime and how badly you want to see the arrested person convicted. You will need to be willing to work shiftwork, including weekends and holidays.
Other positions possibly of interest: Victim advocate - helping victims receive all services they need (medical, counseling) and helping them navigate the legal system. Not sure what this position is called, but there is someone who does pre-sentencing reports about the suspect, to help the court in determining the best course of action - does suspect have a job, have family ties to the community, prior convictions, etc. There are various specialty courts (such as for Veterans), and programs aimed at trying to reduce recidivism. These may fall under social services, probation, parole, youth services, etc.
A lot depends on where it is you want to make your mark! I encourage you to look for an opportunity to get more "hands on" with the legal system, perhaps on a ride along with an officer, joining the Citizens Police Academy, or youth Police Explorers.
Law Enforcement itself is not for everyone, but there are jobs within the broad field of law enforcement/judicial that will work for almost everyone!
I am happy to discuss this further, if you have any questions!
Kim
There are MANY different ways to be involved in the criminal justice system. As far as I know, K9 is a specialized assignment within law enforcement. There are both police officer and civilian CSI positions. Civilian ones are listed as "Evidence Technicians," or something similar. We have them here in San Antonio.
Do I have what it takes? Good question! Even in civilian positions, you are expected to be of high moral character. Evidence Techs need to be physically fit, for squatting, bending, lifting, crawling, to whereever the crime scene happens to be. You will see and smell some pretty gross stuff. Such as a corpse inside of a septic tank. No exaggeration. You will need to be able to be completely objective in your work, regardless of how heinous the crime and how badly you want to see the arrested person convicted. You will need to be willing to work shiftwork, including weekends and holidays.
Other positions possibly of interest: Victim advocate - helping victims receive all services they need (medical, counseling) and helping them navigate the legal system. Not sure what this position is called, but there is someone who does pre-sentencing reports about the suspect, to help the court in determining the best course of action - does suspect have a job, have family ties to the community, prior convictions, etc. There are various specialty courts (such as for Veterans), and programs aimed at trying to reduce recidivism. These may fall under social services, probation, parole, youth services, etc.
A lot depends on where it is you want to make your mark! I encourage you to look for an opportunity to get more "hands on" with the legal system, perhaps on a ride along with an officer, joining the Citizens Police Academy, or youth Police Explorers.
Law Enforcement itself is not for everyone, but there are jobs within the broad field of law enforcement/judicial that will work for almost everyone!
I am happy to discuss this further, if you have any questions!
Kim
Thank you so much. This really helped.
Rochele
Ezra Noel Sabaupan
2
Answers
Updated
Ezra Noel’s Answer
Rochele if you gonna ask me what I learn during my school days I will definitively say to do what you really love. If that is what you love doing then go for it. You will be successful when you do that and be content and happy. I've met a lot of people that pursue a career that they don't love and just go because it has a good pay but most of them doesn't feel satisfied. Some of them even change their careers now that they are old. You can go whatever career you want as long as you love it and enjoy it. I think the right question is does this just interest you or this is what you love to do? Good luck with whatever you'll pick as your career.
Colleen C
Sales and Account Management
1
Answer
Washington, Washington
Updated
Colleen’s Answer
As a former police officer, I can absolutely tell you that if you are honest, determined and hardworking, you have what it takes!
It is never so important as now to have quality police officers in the public. You will likely need to begin somewhere (front lines). But there are other options: Look into federal positions (ie FBI, ATF, CIA). Look on the Department of Justice (at the state level and federal levels) websites. You can also take classes that will have you working within the criminal justice system in different capacities. There are many non-profits that work in the justice system as well.
Don't give up. Get a start. Good Luck!!!
It is never so important as now to have quality police officers in the public. You will likely need to begin somewhere (front lines). But there are other options: Look into federal positions (ie FBI, ATF, CIA). Look on the Department of Justice (at the state level and federal levels) websites. You can also take classes that will have you working within the criminal justice system in different capacities. There are many non-profits that work in the justice system as well.
Don't give up. Get a start. Good Luck!!!
Ryan Jacobs
Third Party Risk Analyst
2
Answers
Windham, Connecticut
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Rochele!
I wouldn't think you're lost at all. You sound like you have a great idea of something you may wish to pursue! If you're sure you want to do something in the law enforcement area/legal realm, the best thing you can do is give it a shot! See if you can go to your local police station, or maybe visit a court house in your area (when we're free and clear of COVID). I think you're on the right track and you'll never know what will be the best fit unless you pick something and dive right in! If it doesn't work, try the next thing. =)
I wouldn't think you're lost at all. You sound like you have a great idea of something you may wish to pursue! If you're sure you want to do something in the law enforcement area/legal realm, the best thing you can do is give it a shot! See if you can go to your local police station, or maybe visit a court house in your area (when we're free and clear of COVID). I think you're on the right track and you'll never know what will be the best fit unless you pick something and dive right in! If it doesn't work, try the next thing. =)
Edward Langellier
Business Banking Loan Officer
4
Answers
Smithfield, Rhode Island
Updated
Edward’s Answer
Hi Rochele, I don't believe you're lost at all! It's perfectly normal to have questions as to what you want to do and be in life. If you're showing an interest in law enforcement of any kind such as a police officer, K-9 officer, CSI etc. you may want to enquire with local law enforcement departments. Many departments have programs for youths some of which are called Explorer Programs and these programs allow you to become involved and interact with law enforcement officials. You may get the opportunity to ride with a police office, a K-9 unit, speak with members of the CSI team, dispatch personnel and others. It can be a great experience for someone such as you.
I wish you all the very best!
Ed
I wish you all the very best!
Ed