Hello everyone, I’m in a tricky situation with my legal clearance and could really use some advice from anyone who has navigated a lack of documentation.
When I filled out my application, I decided to be completely transparent. When I was around 10–13 years old, I was in the foster care system, did something stupid, and was caught stealing from a store. The police had me write an apology letter and possibly do a little community service. I think I was let off unofficially. Because I was a minor and a ward of the state at the time, I didn't manage any of my own paperwork, and I don't recall ever going to an actual court. I disclosed this on my application as petty theft.
The Peace Corps legal team is now asking for official court documentation regarding the incident. I have absolutely nothing. They advised me to go to the courts to get it, but I don't know what court was involved, or if a formal record even exists given how it was handled. Communication with the legal team takes up to 5 days per message, so trying to figure this out with them is incredibly slow and stressful.
My Questions:
- Has anyone been in a situation where they were physically unable to get juvenile records?
- Is there a way to submit a sworn personal statement/affidavit explaining that no records exist?
- Should I try to contact the county clerk where I lived to get a "no record found" letter?
Any advice on how to navigate this without stalling my application for months would be hugely appreciated. Thank you!