Character & Fitness Questionnaire

SECTION 1 - IDENTIFICATION
A - General Information
This Questionnaire must be submitted on-line, according to the fee schedule and deadlines. Do NOT send a paper copy to the Board of Bar Examiners.

All supporting documentation required by each section of the Character and Fitness Questionnaire must be uploaded to your User Home Page. Note: Prior to uploading all supplemental document(s), YOU must redact your Social Security number from the document(s). It is YOUR responsibility to ensure this information is not included. Pay attention to the time limits in each section, as the time periods may vary for certain kinds of records. Older documents may be required based on the nature and severity of the underlying matter in the discretion of the Committee. If no time limit is specified, all documents must be provided. The upload feature will become available AFTER this questionnaire is submitted and will be located on the lower right hand side of your User Home Page. Detailed upload instructions are listed below. If you are not in possession of any documentation required by the Character and Fitness Questionnaire, you must make a diligent effort to obtain these documents by submitting written requests to the relevant agencies, and uploading these requests through your User Home Page. If the required documents are unavailable, you must obtain and upload written correspondence from the agency, on agency letterhead, indicating that the records are unavailable or do not exist.

To avoid delays in the Character and Fitness Questionnaire review process, supplemental documents must be uploaded by January 15 for a February exam, June 15 for a July exam, or within 30 days for In-House Counsel applicants, or within 60 days for UBE or Motion applicants.

You should continue to upload documents as you receive them, and timely amend your Questionnaire as changes occur.

Certification Requirements

If additional space is required to answer any of the questions in the Questionnaire, upload a separate document clearly identifying the Section Number and the question for which additional information is being provided. One document may contain additional information for multiple sections/questions. Please make sure to date the document, and include certification language before your signature: "I certify that the foregoing statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any of the foregoing statements made by me are false, I am subject to punishment [R. 1:4-4(b)]."

To upload supplemental documentation or narratives

1. YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO UPLOAD ANY ITEMS UNTIL YOU HAVE COMPLETED AND SUBMITTED THE CHARACTER AND FITNESS QUESTIONNAIRE (THIS DOCUMENT).
2. Once you have completed and submitted the Character and Fitness Questionnaire, an "upload" feature will activate on your User Home Page. Note: Prior to uploading all supplemental document(s), YOU must redact your Social Security number from the document(s). It is YOUR responsibility to ensure this information is not included.
3. Prepare any documentation that you plan to upload. Only PDF documents will be accepted for uploads, all other file types will be discarded. Be sure that the files have been scanned without any encryption or password protection.
4. To access the upload feature, log into your user account on our website, www.njbarexams.org.
5. Click the red "Upload New Document" button on the right side of your User Home Page, under the "Uploaded Documents" header.
6. Enter the Title and Description of your document.
7. Click "Choose File" and navigate to document and select "Open" and then "Upload Document".
8. You will receive an on screen confirmation that your document has successfully uploaded to the server.
9. After upload, all documents that you have submitted are viewable from your User Home Page. To access, click the red "user home" link. Scroll to the "Uploaded Documents" section. Click the file name that you entered while uploading the document. The date to the right of the file name is the date the document was uploaded.
10. Retain the original documents in your records. You must be able to supply them upon request.


To amend/correct your Character and Fitness Questionnaire

1. Visit your User Home Page by logging into your account on our website, www.njbarexams.org.
2. At the top of the Current Application column, click the red "amend application" button, then confirm that you wish to amend.
3. Scroll down to Forms and Progress, and click "Amend" next to Character and Fitness Questionnaire.
4. Navigate to the appropriate sections, and complete/correct your response.
5. Be sure to return to your User Home Page and click the green "submit amendments" button. Your amendment will NOT be viewable to office staff and is NOT considered submitted until you click this button to submit.
B - Personal Information
Please enter your personal information.

All processing will be done on the basis of your full legal name; therefore, all records will be maintained and certification(s) issued in your full legal name. Please include your middle name if you have one.
Full LEGAL name [First, Middle, Last, Suffix (Jr, III)] John Smith
By what name are you usually called?
Date of birth January 10, 1961
Birth City
Birth State
Birth Country
Have you EVER been known by another name other than a nickname (e.g. maiden name)?
List each name used, or by which you have at any time been known, and the dates that name was used.
Note: If your name was changed by court order, give the name and location of the court issuing the order and the date of the order. You must upload a copy of the court order to your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Other Name Used
From Mo/Yr
To Mo/Yr
Reason name was used
 
C - Citizenship
Are you a citizen of the United States?
Please state the country of which you are a citizen
If you are not a citizen of the United States, have you applied for naturalization? Upload a copy of your US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued documents as well as your current passport through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
When do you expect to become a naturalized citizen?
Describe your immigration status
 
Do you have an alien registration number?
Provide your alien registration number
Upload a copy of your resident alien card through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions to upload documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Upload a copy of your U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued documents through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire online. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
SECTION 2 - ADDRESSES
A - Current Addresses
Address 1 3855 Lake Clearwater Place
Address 2 Apt. 222
City California
State Florida
Zip 90210
County Marion
Province
Country United States of America
NOTE: If you have a New Jersey State address and the County field is blank, click on Edit Personal Info in the upper right hand corner of your User Home Page. Be sure to hit the "Update" button on the bottom of the page when making any changes to your User Home Page.
B - Address History
List each address at which you have resided in the past 10 years in chronological order, beginning with your current address. List all addresses, including college, law school, summer, and any other temporary residence. If you resided in school dormitory housing, you do not have to designate the specific dormitory, but need to provide the other required information.
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Country
From
To
SECTION 3 - EDUCATION
A - High School / Secondary School
Include all education starting with high school, including study abroad and non-degree education, but not CLE.
School Name
City
State
Zip
From
To
B - College or University
School Name
City
State
Zip
From
To
Degree (e.g.. BS, BA, etc.)
Date Awarded
School or Program of Study
C - Law School
Did you (or do you expect to) receive a Juris Doctor from an ABA approved law school before the examination for which you are applying? This requirement must be met if you wish to sit for the New Jersey bar examination. If you do not meet this requirement and still apply for the examination, you will not receive a refund. Bar examination applicants are required to submit a Law School Certificate from EVERY law school ever attended.
Name of Law School
Non-ABA Law School
City
State
Zip
From
To
Attended
Degree
Date Awarded
Have you attended any other law schools from which you did not receive a Juris Doctor?
Name of Law School
City
State
Zip
From
To
Attended
Degree
Date Awarded
D - Probation, Discipline or Leaves of Absence (after high school graduation)
After high school graduation, have you been placed on academic probation, suspended, expelled, taken a leave of absence or had an interruption in your education for academic or personal reasons, been asked to leave school, or asked to resign or permitted to withdraw?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to request that your school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation regarding the incident. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the school no longer has any documentation, obtain a letter from the school stating such.
Details of incident
 
Which school does this pertain to?
Name of School
Date of incident or leave
After high school graduation, have you been disciplined, reprimanded, suspended, placed on probation, expelled, asked to resign, or permitted to withdraw from any educational institution for other than academic reasons including but not limited to housing violations, warnings, any step in progressive discipline, student code of conduct or honor code violations?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to request that your school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation regarding the incident. Detailed instructions to upload documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the school no longer has any documentation, obtain a letter from the school stating such.
Provide details of each incident. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
Which school does this pertain to?
Name of School
Date of Incident
Since high school graduation, have you been the subject of a formal or informal disciplinary procedure, honor code charge, and/or student conduct code charge that was not disclosed above, regardless of the disposition of the charges? NOTE: The acceptance of a lower grade or F to resolve the matter, the imposition of community service or other requirements or sanctions IS considered Informal Discipline. Accepting resolution in lieu of a hearing IS considered Informal Discipline.
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to request that your school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation regarding the incident. Detailed instructions to upload documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the school no longer has any documentation, obtain a letter from the school stating such.
Provide details of each incident. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
Which school does this pertain to?
Name of school
Date of incident
Since entering college, have you ever been approached or confronted, in person or in writing, including e-mail, by a professor, instructor, teacher, dean, or other member of the academic community concerning excessive absences, fluctuations in grades, or failure to complete assignments or any behavior or misconduct not disclosed above?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to request that your school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation regarding the incident. Detailed instructions to upload documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the school no longer has any documentation, obtain a letter from the school stating such.
Provide details of each incident. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
What school does this pertain to?
Name of School
Date of Incident
If you answered "yes" to any of the questions above, you are required to request that your school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation through your User Home Page after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
SECTION 4 - EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS VENTURES
A - Employment History
Please list your employment status for the past ten years (or since your 18th birthday if you are under 28 years of age) in chronological order, beginning with your most recent employment or unemployment status. If you were unemployed, including during periods of schooling, enter "Unemployed" as the employer and enter the reason you were unemployed (for example - attending law school) under "Reason Employment Ended". You must address all gaps in employment. You must timely update the questionnaire when current employment ends.

NOTE:YOU MUST INCLUDE ALL TEMPORARY AND/OR PART-TIME WORK, INCLUDING CLINICS, INTERNSHIPS or EXTERNSHIPS WHETHER PAID OR UNPAID.

Indicate and describe any self-employment in detail.

If you are unable to recall or obtain a supervisor's name or a company address after having made reasonable effort to do so, write "Unable to recall." You may be contacted for additional information and to take further action.
Please remember, it is your continuing duty to update this questionnaire as your employment status changes in any way after submission.
Company or Firm
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Phone Number
Position Held
Supervisor's Name
Supervisor's Prefix
Supervisor's Job Title
Supervisor/Employer E-mail (enter N/A if unavailable)
Full time, part time or N/A
Employment Start Date
Are you still employed with this employer?
(If CURRENTLY employed, please select Yes for this answer)
Employment End Date
Reason Employment Ended
 
B - Discharge / Charges
Have you EVER been discharged from any employment or requested or permitted to resign in lieu of disciplinary action or in lieu of criminal charges being filed against you?
For each instance, provide details and a full factual narrative describing the date and the entire circumstances in the space provided. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the employer was not an individual, state the name and title of your supervisor. In addition, you are required to upload all documentation regarding the discharge.
Date of discharge or resignation
Provide an explanation of circumstances of discharge or resignation
 
Name of Employer
Name and Title of Supervisor
Supervisor/Employer E-mail
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
In connection with your employment, have you EVER been subject to any formal or informal charges of improper behavior that had any part in your quitting, being permitted to resign, being discharged or resulting in a suspension, demotion or loss of pay?
For each instance, provide details and a full factual narrative describing the incident, including the date and circumstances, in the space provided. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you are also required to upload all documentation regarding the charges.
Date of charge
Circumstances of charge
 
Name of Employer
Name and Title of Supervisor
Supervisor/Employer E-mail
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Have you EVER been approached or confronted by an employer, supervisor, or colleague concerning excessive absences or lateness, lack of diligence, failure to maintain confidential material, or employment-related misconduct or deficiency?
For each instance, provide details and a full factual narrative describing the incident, including the date and circumstances, in the space provided. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you are required to upload all documentation regarding the issues.
Date of misconduct or deficiency
Circumstances of misconduct or deficiency
 
Name of Employer
Name and Title of Supervisor
Supervisor/Employer E-mail
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Have you EVER applied for a position that required proof of good character and had that application denied for reasons involving your background or character, or in which you withdrew that application after questions about your character arose?
For each instance, provide details and a full factual narrative describing the incident, including the date and circumstances, in the space provided. If additional space is required, upload a certification to supplement your response. Detailed instructions are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. You are also required to upload all documentation regarding the denial or withdrawal.
Date of denial or withdrawal
Circumstances of denial or withdrawal
 
Name of Employer
Employer Contact Person
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Have you EVER applied for a position that required a pre-employment drug test and had that application denied because you failed the test?
For each instance, provide details as well as a full factual narrative describing the incident, including the date and circumstances, in the space provided. You are also required to upload all documentation regarding the test.
Date of application denial
Circumstances of application denial
 
Name of Employer
Employer Contact Person
Supervisor/Employer E-mail
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
C - BUSINESS VENTURES
Have you EVER been involved in a business venture, including but not limited to corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, general associations or trusts, in which you have been an officer, director, manager, trustee, or had any financial interest in the business venture?
If you answered "yes" to the question name each business entity and your exact involvement with the entity and the current status of the business entity.
 
In the space provided, you are required to provide details, and a description of your interest in the business. In addition, you are required to upload documentation regarding the formation of this business venture and proof that the business is in good standing with its requirements. If the venture is no longer active, you are required to upload a copy of the dissolution paperwork. These documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Name of Business Venture
Business E-mail
Phone
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Country
Your position/involvement
Start date of your involvement
Are you still involved with the business venture?
Date involvement ended
Reason involvement ended
 
SECTION 5 - ARMED FORCES SERVICES
A - Armed Forces
Have you EVER served in any of the armed forces of the United States?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to state the branch of service, dates of each period of active service, rank, serial number and your last commanding officer.
Branch of Service
Start Date
End Date
Highest Rank Achieved
Serial Number or EDIPI (Electronic Data Interchange Personal Identifier)
Your Last Commanding Officer
Are separated from the Service?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to upload a copy of discharge or separation papers (DD form 214) through your User Home Page after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Nature of Separation
Type of Discharge
Were any courts martial, Article 15 proceedings, or administrative discharge proceedings lodged against you during your period of service?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide details of the charge, nature of proceedings and disposition. Upload all relevant documents, including the disposition, and any explanations that do not fit in the space provided, through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you must request that a copy of your entire military and disciplinary file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
Charge
Nature of Proceedings
Disposition
SECTION 6 - LICENSES
A - Other Professional / Occupational Licenses
Have you EVER held, or do you currently hold, any professional, occupational, or business license in any jurisdiction, other than as an attorney at law? Sample licenses which require a "yes" answer to this question include, but are not limited to: Teaching, Nursing, Insurance and Banking and FINRA licenses, Notary Public, US Patent Agent, Realtor and EMS.
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to upload proof of the current status of your license, and if you still hold the license, provide a Certificate of Good Standing through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
If you have additional information to supply for this question, upload the explanation and/or documents through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Date of Application
License Applied For:
Name of Authority
Authority Information
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
License Number
Did you take the exam?
Date of Examination, If Any
Exam Result
Have you ever voluntarily surrendered or been asked to surrender such a license?
Reason for surrender
 
Have you allowed the license to lapse?
Explain when and why
 
B - Discipline
Have you EVER been disciplined as a member of any licensed profession or occupation (except law), including, but not limited to, being suspended from practice, reprimanded, censured, disqualified, revoked, permitted to resign, admonished, sanctioned or removed, or have any complaints or charges, formal or informal, ever been made or filed or proceedings instituted against you in such capacity?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide all details, including a factual narrative with a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the discipline and request that a copy of your entire disciplinary file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners. You must ALSO upload any and all documentation regarding the discipline. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
NOTE: This section does not pertain to conduct in the legal profession - see Section 15.
Date of incident
Explanation
 
Exact Charges
 
Disposition of the matter
 
Name and complete address of the authority in possession of the records thereof
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Have you EVER held a professional or occupational license (except law), that was administratively suspended or revoked (e.g., for failure to pay required fees or failure to complete required courses)?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide all details, including a factual narrative with a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the suspension or revocation and upload documentation, including petitions for relief and reinstatement, if applicable. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
This section does not pertain to conduct in the legal profession - see Section 15.
Date of incident
Explanation
 
Disposition of the matter
 
Name and complete address of the authority in possession of the records thereof
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Have you EVER filed an application for a professional, occupational, or business license or certificate that was denied, that was withdrawn by you after questions about your character or qualifications arose, or that otherwise was unfavorably acted on by the licensing authority?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide all details, including a factual narrative with a detailed explanation of the circumstances and upload all documentation regarding this denial, withdrawal or otherwise unfavorable decision. Documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Nature of Application
 
Date denied, withdrawn, or otherwise unfavorably acted on
Name and complete address of the relevant authority
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
SECTION 7 - OFFICIAL POSITIONS AND PUBLIC OFFICES
A - Official Positions
Have you EVER been appointed or elected to a federal, state, county, or municipal office or position?
Law clerk positions should be listed under Section 4 - Employment and applicants holding a notary license should list this under Section 6 - Licenses.
State the following for each office or position held.
Position or office
Dates From
Date to
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
B - Discipline
Have you EVER been dismissed, discharged, reprimanded, censured, requested or permitted to resign in lieu of disciplinary action or potential disciplinary action, removed from office or otherwise disciplined as a holder of an official position or public office?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you're required to provide the details of the discipline, including the dates, the facts, the exact charges, the disposition of the matter and the name and address of the party in possession of the record and to upload any additional information or documentation through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Date of filing
Explanation
 
Charges
Disposition of the matter
 
Provide the name and address of the party in possession of the record.
Name
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
SECTION 8 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Instructions
You are required to disclose ALL proceedings in which you have EVER been a party and provide full details of the nature of the proceeding on a separate attachment, including narrative of facts, dates, charges, case numbers, name and location of court, if any, references to court records, facts and disposition.

For each civil or administrative proceeding resolved within the last ten (10) years, provide a copy of the complaint, petition, answer, and settlement document or final judgment, decision or Order.

For each criminal proceeding resolved within the last ten (10) years, provide narrative police reports, charging documents, judgment of conviction or certificate of disposition, and a pre-sentence report, if any.

It is YOUR responsibility to obtain and submit the appropriate records. If the appropriate records are not available or are no longer in existence (after having made a reasonable effort to obtain them), provide a letter on the agency's letterhead, stating that the records are not available or are no longer in existence.

All documents must be provided for each incident/proceeding resolved within the last ten (10) years, even if the incident occurred/proceeding began more than 10 years ago. You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. Submission of documents is NOT a substitute for providing a full, factual and chronological narrative explanation. Failure to provide a full narrative will be considered as failure to provide all required information.

Note that you may be required to disclose something in this section, even though you will not be required to provide documentation with your submission, as many questions ask "have you ever…"
A - Civil, Administrative, Governmental, Arbitration or Disciplinary Proceedings
Have you EVER been a named party (e.g., plaintiff/defendant) in any civil proceeding, regardless of the age of the matter or whether the final disposition was a dismissal or a settlement? This includes, but is not limited to, malpractice, negligence actions, intentional torts, landlord/tenant matters, contract matters, or domestic relations matters, including divorce, custody, visitation, support, petitions for protection from abuse, restraining orders and/or peace orders and expungement proceedings. Have you ever been a party, complainant or participant in or to an administrative, governmental, investigative, judicial, arbitration or disciplinary proceeding, including but not limited to workers' compensation, unemployment, pension, disability, licensing boards, welfare, child protection, Title IX proceedings, conservatorship, fee arbitration or attorney disciplinary/grievance proceedings? NOTE: Simple receipt of benefits does NOT trigger an affirmative response if no proceedings were held.
If you were the child in question in a custody proceeding, you were not considered a named party.
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide full details and a chronological explanation of the legal proceeding and provide information concerning the parties, when filed, where the proceeding was venued, docket or case number and status of the proceeding. For each proceeding resolved within the last ten (10) years, you must also provide the documents listed below.
NOTE, however, that if you answered “yes” to this question based on your filing of a petition for protection from abuse, a restraining order, or a complaint under Title IX, you need only provide the case caption and the outcome; you need not provide a description or documentation related to the proceedings.
Date of incident
Provide a detailed description of the matter that includes the outcome. Explain if you had any monetary obligations pursuant to the final judgment or resolution and, if so, whether you have met or are meeting your obligations.
 
If the proceedings were resolved within the last ten (10) years, you must upload a copy of the complaint, petition, answer and settlement documentation or final judgment, decision or Order from your User Home Page after submitting the Character Questionnaire on-line. If the records are not available or are no longer in existence, you are required to provide a letter from the agency on their letterhead stating that the documents are not available and you must document your diligent efforts to obtain the documentation. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
B - Violation of Law
Have you EVER been cited for, charged with, taken into custody for, arrested for, indicted, tried for, pled guilty to, or convicted of, the violation of any law (other than a minor traffic violation) or been the subject of a juvenile delinquent or youthful offender proceeding or received a conditional discharge, adjournment in contemplation of dismissal, or pretrial diversionary program?  (NOTE: driving while intoxicated or impaired, driving without insurance, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving while suspended are not considered minor traffic offenses for the purposes of this section).
The entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter on this statement. You must upload a copy of the expungement petition and Order to your account AND disclose the proceeding in Section 8A. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation. If the violation of the law also led to an Order of Protection or restraining order, please disclose as well.
Date of incident
Location of incident (city/state)
Name, complete mailing address, and telephone number of law enforcement agency involved:
Law Enforcement Agency
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Charge(s) at time of arrest / citation. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
 
Citation Number
Detailed description of incident
 
Upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
If the proceedings were resolved within the last ten (10) years, you are required to upload a copy of the arresting agency's file (including a copy of the complaint/summons/ticket/investigative report) and the Court disposition records obtained from the Court that decided the matter (in person or by mail). Do you have all of the records in your possession to upload, as required?
Explain your diligent efforts to obtain a copy of the police or arresting agency's report, including specifically to whom your requests have been directed and when made. Provide proof of these written requests as well as any responses you received from the police or arresting agency through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please provide the names and addresses of any attorneys appearing on this matter for you. You must attempt to obtain records otherwise unattainable from your attorney and document your efforts and diligent inquiry to obtain documents.
 
Was this matter decided in court or through plea by mail or electronically? (Provide details)
Provide the mailing address, and telephone number of court involved:
Court
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Caption of case (e.g., State v. Smith)
Case or court file number
All Charges prior to final disposition
Date of final disposition
Final disposition
C - Legal Charges
Have you EVER been charged with fraud, larceny, embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, misrepresentation, perjury, false swearing, conspiracy to conceal, or a similar offense in any legal proceeding, civil or criminal, or in bankruptcy, regardless of the age or the disposition of the charges?
The entry of an expungement or sealing order does not relieve you of the duty to disclose the matter on this confidential statement. You may indicate the existence of such an order in your explanation. You must upload a copy of the expungement petition and Order, and disclose this proceeding in Section 8A as well.
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation.
Date of incident
Location of incident (city/state)
Name, complete mailing address, and telephone number of law enforcement agency involved:
Law Enforcement Agency/Police Department
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Charge(s) at time of arrest / citation. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Citation Number
Detailed description of incident
 
Upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) from your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
If the proceedings were resolved within the last ten (10) years, you are required to upload a copy of the police or arresting agency's file (including a copy of the complaint/summons/ticket/ investigative report) and the Court disposition records obtained from the Court that decided the matter (in person or by mail). Do you have all of the records in your possession to upload as required?
Explain your diligent efforts to obtain a copy of the police or arresting agency's report, including specifically to whom your requests have been directed and when made. Provide proof of these written requests, as well as any responses you received from the police or arresting agency, through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Provide the names and addresses of any attorneys appearing on this matter for you. You must attempt to obtain the records otherwise unattainable from your attorney and document your efforts and diligent inquiry to obtain documents.
 
Did you, or an attorney on your behalf, appear in court in connection with this charge or arrest or was the ticket paid by mail or electronically?
Provide the mailing address, and telephone number of court involved:
Court
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Caption of case
Case or court file number
Charges at time of final disposition. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Date of final disposition
Final disposition
D - Deportation/Removal/Exclusion
Have you EVER been a party to Deportation, Removal or Exclusion Proceedings, or otherwise denied entry to or removed from any country?
You must submit a full and detailed narrative of this incident and must supply the applicable records. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation.
If yes, please supply a detailed explanation and upload all documentation related to the proceedings through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
E - Restricted Access, Denied Access or Ban
Have you EVER been denied access, had your access restricted for any period of time or been banned from any of the following, whether or not criminal charges were ever filed:
(a) from this country or any other country;
Detailed explanation
 
(b) from any educational, religious or charitable institution or governmental or judicial facility;
Detailed explanation
 
(c) from a casino or gambling establishment;
Detailed explanation
 
(d) from a bar, restaurant or any public facility;
Detailed explanation
 
(e) from any form of transportation including, but not limited to, public transportation, including buses, trains, subways, airplanes, taxicabs, or private transportation including travel for fee (e.g. Uber or Lyft, etc.)?
Detailed explanation
 
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation.
If yes, please supply a detailed explanation and upload all documentation through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
F - Immunity/Investigation
Are you currently under investigation or have you EVER been offered or granted immunity to testify in any grand jury proceeding, criminal action or criminal proceeding?
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation.
State the place, the date, the name of each defendant, the nature of the action or the proceeding, the Prosecutor's Office, the Court and the circumstances. If necessary, upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Place
Date
Name of each defendant
 
Nature of the action or the proceeding
 
Name of court
Circumstances
 
Upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) from your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
G.1 - Business Practices
Has any business in which you had a financial interest, managed or in which you actively participated in the control or management of EVER been charged with fraud, larceny, embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, misrepresentation, conspiracy to conceal, or a similar offense in any legal proceeding, civil or criminal, or in bankruptcy?
You must submit a full and detailed narrative of the incident in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation. Documents must be supplied no matter the age of the proceeding. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Date of incident
Location of incident (city/state)
Name, complete mailing address, and telephone number of law enforcement agency involved:
Law Enforcement Agency
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Charge(s) at time of arrest / citation. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Citation Number
Detailed description of incident.
 
Upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) from your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
You are required to upload a copy of the police or arresting agency's file (including a copy of the complaint/summons/ticket/ investigative report) and the Court disposition records obtained from the Court that decided the matter (in person or by mail). Do you have all of the records in your possession to upload as required?
Explain your diligent efforts to obtain a copy of the police or arresting agency's report, including specifically to whom your requests have been directed and when made. Provide proof of these written requests as well as any responses you received from the police or arresting agency, through your User Home Page after you have submitted the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please provide the names and addresses of any attorneys appearing on this matter for you. You must attempt to obtain records otherwise unattainable from your attorney and document your efforts and diligent inquiry to obtain documents.
 
Did you, or an attorney on your behalf, appear in court in connection with this charge or arrest?
Provide the mailing address, and telephone number of court involved:
Court
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Caption of case
Case or court file number
Charges at time of final disposition. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Date of final disposition
Final disposition
G.2 - Business Practices
To your knowledge, have you or any business that you had a financial interest in, managed, or actively participated in the control of EVER been the subject of any investigation or inquiry by any Federal, State, Local, or administrative agency relating to the alleged violation of law, rule, regulation, or other legal standard?
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation.
Date of incident
Location of incident (city/state)
Name, complete mailing address, and telephone number of law enforcement agency involved:
Law Enforcement Agency
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Charge(s) at time of arrest / citation. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Citation Number
Detailed description of incident. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
Upload additional information (documents, explanations that do not fit in the space provided, etc.) through your User Home Page after you have submitted the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
You are required to upload a copy of the arresting agency's file (including a copy of the complaint/summons/ticket/ investigative report) and the Court disposition records obtained from the Court that decided the matter (in person or by mail). Do you have all of the records in your possession to upload as required?
Explain your diligent efforts to obtain a copy of the police or arresting agency's report, including specifically to whom your requests have been directed and when made. Provide proof of these written requests as well as any responses you received from the police/arresting agency, through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please provide the names and addresses of any attorneys appearing on this matter for you. You must attempt to obtain records otherwise unattainable from your attorney and document your efforts and diligent inquiry to obtain documents.
 
Did you, or an attorney on your behalf, appear in court in connection with this charge or arrest?
Provide the mailing address, and telephone number of court involved:
Court
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal Code
Country
Telephone
Caption of case
Case or court file number
Charges at time of final disposition. Include the names(s) of the charges as well as the corresponding statute/regulation/code/violation. Example: Harassment, NJSA 2C:33-4.
Date of final disposition
Final disposition
H - Probation or parole
Are you presently on probation or parole?
You must submit a full and detailed narrative in addition to the records provided. The narrative must recount the facts of the actual event in addition to a procedural recitation. If you need additional space, you may upload a certification to supplement your answers. See Section 1A of this Questionnaire for additional instructions.
Name of the court
 
Name of probation or parole offices
Address of probation or parole officer
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Terms of sentence
 
SECTION 9 - FINANCIAL
A - Debts Overdue
In the past twelve (12) months, have you had any debts more than ninety (90) days overdue?
Provide details of the debt, and an explanation for the debt. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Upload a statement from the holder of the debt showing the present balance and documentation concerning any payment plan entered into, with proof of payment attached. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Holders of the debt
Amounts overdue
Loan or Credit numbers
Provide an explanation for this debt and detail the action taken to remedy the situation. Upload proof of final payment or copy of payment plan and proof of compliance with the plan. If a payment plan is not approved in writing, upload proof of your last six (6) payments, as well as documentation evidencing the amount of the debt and outlining your obligation. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
B - Child Support or Alimony
Are you now, or have you EVER been, the subject of any court-ordered obligation to provide child support or alimony? Upload a copy of the court order through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Are you in arrears in child support in an amount equal to or exceeding the amount of child support payable for six (6) months?
Have you failed to comply with the health insurance provisions relating to an order for child support?
Are you the subject of a child-support related warrant?
NOTE: If you are in violation of child-support obligations, as set forth in RG 202:6 of the Regulations of the Committee on Character, you are ineligible to receive a license to practice law in this State.
Court Order
 
Case number
 
Date of arrearages
Amount of arrearages
Current Status
 
Upload a certified narrative outlining the actions you have taken to remedy the arrearages. Upload proof of the present balance of child support from your User Home Page after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. A child support probation account transcript is acceptable, if dated within the last month.
 
C - Other Obligations
Are you now, or have you EVER been, in arrears on any court-ordered obligation including child-support or alimony not covered by Section B, supra? If you answer "yes," you are required to upload a copy of the court order through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Court Order
 
Case number
Date of arrearages
Amount of arrearages
Current status
 
Upload a narrative outlining the actions you have taken to remedy the arrearages. Upload proof of the present balance through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
D - Judgment
Has a judgment EVER been entered against you?
Provide the names and addresses of the holders and the details of the judgment. Upload certified copies of such judgments through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please make sure that you have disclosed the original lawsuit under Section 8A.
Name of holder
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Details of the judgment
 
Has this judgment been satisfied?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to upload a copy of the warrant of satisfaction, and the pleadings in this matter. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Please explain the action taken to remedy the situation.
 
If a payment plan has been established, upload proof of the amount of the obligation and the terms of the plan, through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the plan was not approved in writing, provide proof of your last six (6) payments and your explanation of the payment plan.
E - Lien
Have any liens EVER been placed against your property? Do not include real estate mortgage liens, but include any tax liens.
Provide a detailed explanation.
 
You are required to upload all documentation regarding the initial lien and a statement from the lien holder showing the current balance through your User Home Page after you have submitted the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Was this lien satisfied?
You are required to upload a copy of the lien satisfaction through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
You are required to upload all documentation regarding the initial lien and a statement from the lien holder showing the current balance through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
F - Personal Bankruptcy
Have you EVER filed a petition in bankruptcy or for establishment of a wage earner plan, or has one been involuntarily filed against you?
For each filing, list the final dispositions of the matters, the court in which the dispositions were filed, the dates of the filings, and an explanation of the reasons for the bankruptcy. Upload a copy of the petition, all schedules, and the final order of the court or discharge or dismissal through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Final disposition
 
Name of court
Date of filing of initial petition
Date of final disposition, dismissal or discharge
Provide a detailed explanation of the reason(s) for the bankruptcy or circumstances leading to bankruptcy. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
G - Business Bankruptcy
Has any business in which you had a financial interest EVER filed for bankruptcy?
For each filing list the final disposition of the matter, the court in which such disposition was filed, the date(s) of filing(s) and an explanation of the reason(s) for the bankruptcy. Upload a copy of the petition, all schedules, and the final order of the court of discharge or dismissal through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Final disposition
 
Name of court
Date of filing of initial petition
Provide a detailed explanation of the reason(s) for the bankruptcy or the circumstances leading up to the bankruptcy. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
H - Student Loans
Do you currently have any student loans?
Have you EVER been in arrears or defaulted on any student loan?
If you answered "yes," provide factual details and give name and address of creditor, the loan account number, the amount owed and what steps have been taken to bring the account up to date.
Details
 
Name of creditor
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Loan account number
Amount owed
Is the account now current?
Provide proof that the account is now current.
If a payment plan has been established, upload proof of the terms of the plan, through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the plan was not approved in writing, provide proof of your last six (6) payments and your explanation of the payment plan. If the loan has now been placed in deferment, explain the terms of the deferment.
Provide a detailed explanation of any action taken to remedy the situation.
 
I - Custodians, Guardians, Conservators, Trustees, Receivers and Special Fiscal Agents
Subsequent to your 18th birthday, have you or your property EVER been placed under the control of a guardian, conservator, trustee, receiver, special fiscal agent or any other custodian?
Provide details and upload related documentation through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
J - Money Laundering Control
To your knowledge, has a Currency Transaction Report (CTR) or Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) EVER been filed for your activities?
Provide details and upload related documentation through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
SECTION 10 - TAX RETURN INFORMATION
A - Personal Tax Return/Filing and Payment
NOTE: A filing pursuant to a proper extension is considered timely for this purpose. A payment plan is NOT considered timely payment.
Have you EVER failed to file a federal, state, or local income tax return when due and without a lawful extension or have you EVER failed to pay federal, state, or local income taxes when due?
If you answered "yes," you are required to provide a narrative explaining the reason for your failure to file or pay, when the matter occurred, and when you resolved the issue. Explain the steps that have been taken to remedy the defect. Upload proof that the tax return was subsequently filed, proof of payment, and current status of any owed taxes, fines or penalties and upload an account transcript (available from the IRS or other tax authority. IRS transcripts are free. Additional information can be found at http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Get-Transcript). All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
B - Corporate Tax Return/Filing and Payment
Have you or any business, corporation or other entity in which you held an equity interest EVER failed to pay employer's withholding taxes or ever failed to remit sales, excise, or other taxes to the appropriate taxing authority?
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide a detailed narrative explaining the reason for your failure to file or pay, when the matter occurred, and when the issue was resolved. A payment plan for past due obligations must be detailed in your response. In addition, you are required to upload all documentation regarding such occurrences and provide proof that the situation(s) has been remedied. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
C - Judgment Against You
Has the Internal Revenue Service or any other taxing authority ever obtained a judgment or made a levy against you for unpaid taxes, assessments or penalties?
Provide a narrative explanation of the circumstances surrounding the judgment or levy and provide information about your attempts to resolve the judgment or lien.
 
Has the judgment/levy been satisfied?
Upload a copy of the judgment/levy and a copy of the warrant of satisfaction through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Provide a narrative explanation of the action(s) taken to remedy this situation. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
If a payment plan has been established, upload proof of the terms of the plan through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. If the plan was not approved in writing, provide proof of your last six (6) payments.
SECTION 11 - DRIVER'S INFORMATION
A - Driver's Licenses
List each state or foreign jurisdiction in which you have EVER been issued a driver's license, including operator permits. You must also provide an abstract for any license that has been active in the past seven (7) years*. Review your driver's history to answer this section.
Three (3) year (abbreviated) abstracts are not accepted. Abstracts obtained on-line are permitted provided that they are obtained from the motor vehicle agency of the respective state or jurisdiction (no third party abstracts will be accepted).
Have you applied for or been issued a driver's license or operator's permit in any state or jurisdiction (including foreign countries)?
Jurisdiction
Country
Month/Year Issued
(original date – do NOT include renewal dates)
License or permit number
Is this license currently active?
You are required to upload a driver's abstract for this license through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please read instructions below regarding ordering driver's abstracts.
Has this license been active during the last seven (7) years?
You are required to upload a driver's abstract for this license through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Please read instructions below regarding ordering driver's abstracts.
An abstract is not required for this license.
Date license surrendered (month/year)
Reason license surrendered
 
*Driver's Abstract Instructions

Driver's Abstracts must be obtained for each license or permit that has been active during the prior seven (7) years. Driver's abstracts are available from the Division of Motor Vehicles in the state or jurisdiction (including foreign jurisdictions) that issued the license or permit. No third party abstracts will be accepted. Three year (abbreviated) abstracts are NOT accepted. Once received from the appropriate Motor Vehicle agency, upload the abstract through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. Keep the original in your files. Review your abstract before completing this section. If you are not supplying your abstract at this time, you may need to update this section once you obtain the document.
B - Suspended License
Has your driver's license EVER been suspended or revoked in any state or jurisdiction, including foreign jurisdictions (including for excessive or unpaid parking tickets)?
Name of Agency
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Other State or Jurisdiction
ZIP Code
Country
Date of Suspension
Length of Suspension
Reason for Suspension
 
Provide a detailed explanation.
 
C - Denied License
Have you EVER been refused a driver's license by any state or jurisdiction, including foreign jurisdictions?
State or jurisdiction
Date denied
Provide a detailed explanation. Upload documentation regarding this denied license through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
D - Late/failure to answer ticket, citation or summons
Have you EVER been late to timely answer or failed to answer a ticket or summons for any legal proceeding (including parking tickets)?
If you answered "yes," you must provide a narrative detailing the facts of each failure to timely answer a ticket or summons. regardless of how long ago, to the best of your ability. Upload documentation regarding the initial ticket(s) or summons(es) and indicate if a warrant was issued at any time for these tickets/summonses through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Upload documentation regarding the initial ticket(s) or summons(es) through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line, and indicate if a warrant was issued at any time for these tickets/summonses. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Date
Nature of Violation
 
Court Designation
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Disposition
 
E - DUI (Please be sure to include this incident under Section 8B Legal Proceedings as well)
Have you EVER been charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or refusing to provide a breath sample?
Date you were charged
The Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.) reading(s) (enter “Refused” if you refused the test):
Charging Agency (Police Department)
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
Were you convicted of this offense?
If you answered "yes" to any part of this section, you are required to upload copies of all court documents and arresting agency/police documents through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Were you convicted of a lesser charge?
If you were charged with DUI but convicted of a lesser offense, state the offense for which you were convicted, the name and address of the convicting court and the sentence imposed.
Offense for which you were convicted
Date Convicted
Name of Court in which you were convicted
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
What was the sentence imposed? (including conditions precedent to dismissal. e.g., community service, alcohol education, etc.)
 
Disposition
 
If your sentence provided for probation or suspension, indicate whether supervised or unsupervised.
Date Convicted
Name of Court in which you were convicted
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP Code
What sentence was imposed?
 
Disposition
 
If your sentence provided for probation or suspension, indicate whether supervised or unsupervised.
Upload documentation of your sentence (through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line; instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire) including the arresting officer's report, any citations and court documents for each charge. (These documents are obtained from two different places).
Provide a narrative describing the facts and circumstances surrounding each offense, including reason for refusing a breathalyzer test if applicable, including any requirements for drug or alcohol evaluations or community service.
 
Have you completed all the requirements of the sentence? If you have answered "yes," upload proof that you have completed the requirements. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
If you have not, explain what you have not completed and why.
Explain what you have not completed and why.
 
SECTION 12 - HEALTH
Preamble
Section 12 addresses recent conduct or behavior that could call into question a candidate’s ability to practice law in a competent, ethical, and professional manner, meaning in compliance with the Rules of Professional Conduct, the Rules of Court, and applicable authority.

Section 12’s inquiry includes, but is not limited to, conduct and behavior related to a candidate’s mental health, addiction or dependency, or other condition. The purpose of these questions is to determine the current fitness of an applicant to practice law. To that end, a candidate need not disclose any conduct or behavior related to a mental health diagnosis, addiction, or condition that is or has been treated effectively under the care of a health care provider or other medical professional, or through consistent participation in an established treatment program.

The Supreme Court and the Committee on Character encourage candidates to seek support and treatment, and candidates should not view the attorney licensure process as a deterrent to pursue treatment. The Committee regularly recommends licensing of individuals who have demonstrated personal responsibility and maturity in dealing with mental health, addiction, and dependency matters.

This guidance applies to Question 12A. Candidates must provide full and complete responses to all other questions in the Character and Fitness Questionnaire, including Section 8B (regarding criminal charges).’
A
Have you, within the last five (5) years, exhibited conduct or behavior that could call into question your ability to practice law in a competent, ethical, and professional manner? In responding, you need not disclose any conduct or behavior related to a mental health diagnosis, addiction to alcohol or drugs, or other condition that is or has been treated effectively by a health care provider or other medical professional, or through consistent participation in an established treatment program.
If you answered "yes" to this question, furnish a thorough explanation in the space provided, and upload related documentation through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
B
Within the past five (5) years, have you asserted any condition or impairment as a defense, in mitigation, or as an explanation for your conduct in the course of any inquiry, any investigation, or any administrative or judicial proceeding by an educational institution, government agency, professional organization, or licensing authority; or in connection with an employment disciplinary or termination procedure?
If you answered “yes” to this question, furnish a thorough explanation in the space provided, and upload related documentation through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
SECTION 13 - BAR APPLICATIONS
A - Bar Examination or License to Practice Law
Other than the application you are currently completing for admission to the New Jersey Bar, have you EVER sat for a bar examination in any jurisdiction (excluding foreign jurisdictions) or are you CURRENTLY applying to sit for a bar examination in any jurisdiction (excluding foreign jurisdictions); have you EVER applied for bar admission or a law license in any jurisdiction (excluding foreign jurisdictions) or are you CURRENTLY applying for bar admission or a law license in any jurisdiction (excluding foreign jurisdictions). This includes but is not limited to:

  • Applications for jurisdictions where you were granted or denied admission;
  • Applications for previous administrations of the New Jersey Exam;
  • Applications to another jurisdiction for this administration (even if you have not yet begun the application process) or previous administrations of an exam;
  • Applications for admission to jurisdictions in which there was no exam involved (In-House Counsel/reciprocity/admission on motion, UBE Score Transfer, etc.);
  • Exams that you applied for but did not sit or withdrew;
  • Exams that you sat for but did not pass.
NOTE: If you are CURRENTLY a UBE Score Transfer applicant, an Admission on Motion applicant or an In-house Counsel applicant in New Jersey, or if you have EVER passed, failed or withdrawn from a bar examination in ANY jurisdiction (including New Jersey), including any prior UBE attempts in any jurisdiction, you MUST answer "Yes" to this Section
Date of Application
Jurisdiction
Name of Authority
Date of Examination or motion filed
Date of Admission (answer this only if actually admitted, not pending)
Status (Pass / Fail / Waiting for Results / Withdrew)
You are required to update your bar status in each jurisdiction if changes occur after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire (e.g., passing the bar exam, interview, hearing, decision, etc.).
B - Interview/Hearing
Did any other jurisdiction in which you EVER applied request an interview or hearing or conduct an investigation to evaluate your character or fitness or regarding improprieties on a bar examination? (This includes "routine" interviews for admission.)
Jurisdiction
Date of Interview/Hearing
You are required to upload a copy of the transcript of any character proceeding through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you must request that a copy of your entire file be sent directly to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
Provide details in the space provided. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
C - Denied Application
Has your application to sit for a bar examination or to be admitted to practice by examination, UBE score transfer or motion EVER been denied or withheld? Upload a copy of the transcript of any proceeding through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. You must request that a copy of your entire file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
Name of jurisdiction
Date of decision
Reason for denial or withholding certification
 
You must request that a copy of your entire file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
D - Bar Exam Improprieties
Have you ever been accused of OR ever been the subject of an inquiry for any alleged improprieties on the bar examination? Upload a copy of the transcript of any proceeding through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. You must request that a copy of your entire file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
Name of jurisdiction
Date of Exam
Detailed Explanation
 
You must request that a copy of your entire file be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
E - Evaluation
Has any other jurisdiction in which you applied EVER requested that you submit to an alcohol, drug, mental health or other evaluation in connection with your application?
You are required to upload a copy of the evaluation for each instance through your User Home Page, after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Name of jurisdiction
Explanation
 
F - Other Certifications
In the State of New Jersey, have you EVER applied for any of the following certifications, limited licenses, registrations and/or admissions: In-House Counsel, or Foreign In-House Counsel, Foreign Legal Consultant, Pro Hac Vice, or Multi-Jurisdictional Practitioner?
Type of certification
Date of application
Provide the case name and briefly describe the nature of the case.
 
Was the application for certification denied or withheld?
You are required to provide a narrative giving the reason for denial or being withheld. In addition, you are required to upload all documentation regarding this denial or withholding through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
Date certification was granted
SECTION 14 - PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
A - Late Disclosures to Law Schools and Bar Jurisdictions, Alterations or Falsifications
Have you EVER made a late disclosure, been accused of or been the subject of an inquiry for alteration, falsification, omission and/or misrepresentation of any document or copy thereof referring to your professional qualification to be a lawyer before or after law school, including but not limited to, online or late disclosures on your law school applications or applications to other bar jurisdictions, bar examination results letter, recommendation letter, report, etc. Have you ever been accused of OR been the subject of an inquiry for any alleged improprieties on a standardized test, including, but not limited to, SAT, LSAT, MPRE, MCAT, GRE, etc. Have you ever been accused of OR ever been the subject of an inquiry for any alleged improprieties on the bar examination? If yes, provide the following for EACH incident.
Date of late disclosure/accusation
Agency/Organization/School
 
Provide an explanation and disposition of the matter. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to upload all documentation from the agency/organization/school through your User Home Page, after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you must request that your law school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners. If another bar jurisdiction is involved, you must sign a release for their entire file to be forwarded DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
 
B - Other Testing Improprieties
Have you ever been accused of OR been the subject of an inquiry for any alleged improprieties on a standardized test, including, but not limited to, SAT, LSAT, MPRE, MCAT, GRE, etc?
If yes, provide the following for EACH incident.
Date of accusation/inquiry
Agency/Organization/School
Provide an explanation and disposition of the matter. If additional space is required, upload a certification supplementing your response. Additional instructions are provided in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to upload all documentation from the agency/organization/school through your User Home Page, after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. In addition, you must request that your law school send your academic and disciplinary records and an official transcript DIRECTLY to the Board of Bar Examiners.
 
C - Unauthorized Practice of Law
Have you EVER been accused of engaging in the Unauthorized Practice of Law in any jurisdiction?
Date
Jurisdiction
 
Explanation
 
Upload all documentation through your User Home Page after you have submitted your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
SECTION 15 - BAR ADMISSIONS IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS
A - Admission in Other Jurisdictions
Have you EVER been admitted to the practice of law in any United States jurisdiction or territory? (This includes any court including but not limited to state, federal, military, etc. Please note, the application for any admission listed in Section 15 should also appear in Section 13.)
You are required to upload the following for any jurisdiction in which you have EVER been admitted. If your license is no longer active in that jurisdiction, including retirement and resignation, you must provide a letter from the jurisdiction explaining your status.

1. Certificate of Good Standing; and
2. Certificate of Ethical Conduct (disciplinary history).

Please note that these may not be the same documents and typically come from different agencies. A list of disciplinary offices is available on our web site (www.njbarexams.org) under the "General Application Information" tab. Online printouts from the jurisdiction's website are not accepted.

NOTE: These jurisdictions must also be listed in Section 13A, Bar Applications.
Please disclose the following information for each jurisdiction to which you have ever been admitted.
Have you resigned or retired this license? If no, provide a Certificate of Good Standing and a Disciplinary History for each license. If yes, provide a verification of status and a Disciplinary History.
Date of resignation or retirement
Name of jurisdiction
Country Name
Court or agency
Date of admission
Have you EVER been disciplined as a member of the bar of this jurisdiction, including, but not limited to, being disbarred, suspended, disqualified, reprimanded, censured, permitted to resign, admonished, sanctioned or removed, or have any complaints, charges or grievances, formal or informal, ever been made or filed or proceedings instituted against you in such capacity?
Provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances of each event and upload all relevant documents. State the dates, facts, exact charges, disposition of the matter and the name and complete address of the authority in possession of the records thereof. All documents must be uploaded through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
Date
Facts and exact charges
 
Disposition of the matter. (You must request that a copy of your entire disciplinary file and your initial bar application be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.)
 
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Have you EVER held a law license in any jurisdiction that was administratively suspended or revoked (e.g., for failure to pay required fees or failure to complete required courses)?
You are required to upload a detailed narrative, which provides all details, and upload all relevant documents through your User Home Page after submitting the Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire. State the dates, facts, exact charges, disposition of the matter and the name and complete address of the authority in possession of the records thereof.
Date
Facts and exact charges
 
Disposition of the matter. You must request that a copy of your entire disciplinary file and your initial character application be sent DIRECTLY to the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners.
 
Name of authority
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Provide the names, addresses and phone numbers of two (2) attorneys from each jurisdiction who are familiar with your professional conduct. Do not list close relatives, anyone used as a personal reference in Section 16, or yourself.
Pursuant to RG 201:2, the responses of any named references are confidential and will not be released to you.
Professional Reference 1
Name
Email address
Phone number
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
Professional Reference 2
Name
Email address
Phone number
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
SECTION 16 - REFERENCES
A - Personal References
List the names, addresses and phone numbers of five (5) individuals who know you well enough to attest to your integrity and fitness to practice law. You may not use close relatives, law school classmates (if you are a recent graduate), significant others, or more than one member of the same law firm, business entity, or family unit. You may use employers. The Committee may, in its discretion, contact any or all of your named references.
Pursuant to RG 201:2, the responses of any named references are confidential and will not be released to you.
Name
Email address
Phone number
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
Zip
SECTION 17 - MISCELLANEOUS
Other Information
Is there any information (event, incident, occurrence, etc.) that was not specifically addressed and/or asked of you in this application and/or in the instructions that could be considered a character issue?
Provide a full and detailed explanation.
 
Within the past five years, have you engaged in any conduct that: (1) resulted in an arrest, discipline, sanction or warning not already disclosed in Sections 1 through 16; (2) resulted in termination or suspension from school or employment not already disclosed in Sections 1 through 16; (3) resulted in loss or suspension or other discipline for any license not already disclosed in Sections 1 through 16; (4) resulted in any inquiry, investigation, administrative or judicial proceeding by an educational institution, governmental agency, professional organization, or licensing authority, or in connection with an employment disciplinary or termination procedure not already disclosed in Sections 1 through 16; or (5) endangered the safety of others, breached fiduciary obligations or violated workplace or academic conduct rules not already disclosed in Sections 1 through 16? If so, explain below and include any asserted defense or claim in mitigation or as an explanation of your conduct and upload all related documentation.
If you answered "yes" to this question, you are required to provide a full and detailed explanation. In addition, you must upload all related documentation through your User Home Page, after you have submitted this Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line. Detailed instructions for uploading documents are available in Section 1A of this Questionnaire.
 
CERTIFICATION
Attestation
I understand that the full and correct completion of this Certified Statement of Candidate is a prerequisite for the Committee on Character's consideration of me as an applicant for admission to the practice of law. Candor and truthfulness are significant elements of fitness. I must provide the Committee with all available information, however unfavorable, even if I doubt its relevance.

If I am unable to provide all of the required documentation at the time I submit this Certified Statement of Candidate, I will timely supplement my application. I understand that until all of the required documentation is provided, my file will be deemed incomplete for review by the Committee. I must answer all questions and upload all documentation to my account within a timely period.

I understand further that I have a continuing duty to disclose all required information to the Committee, and that this duty continues until the date of my admission to the Bar of New Jersey.

I understand that I have a continuing duty to amend this Certified Statement of Candidate within thirty (30) days of any occurrence that would change or render incomplete any answer.

I will submit all additional information requested by the Committee in the form of an affidavit or certification, together with such supplemental documentation as the Committee deems necessary for its review.

I understand that I must respond to requests by the Committee within the time prescribed by the Regulations Governing the Committee on Character or face the abandonment of my application.

I will retain a copy of the completed Certified Statement of Candidate, with attachments, to facilitate submission of supplemental information.

I hereby certify that I have read the Regulations Governing the Committee on Character and all of the questions and my answers in this Certified Statement of Candidate. I further certify that all my answers are true and complete. I am aware that if any answers are willfully omitted or false, I may prejudice my admission to the Bar of the State of New Jersey, my subsequent good standing as a member of the Bar, and that I may be subject to such penalties as are provided by law.

I further certify that I have read the foregoing Statement of Candidate and the facts stated therein are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

You MUST submit your Character and Fitness Questionnaire on-line after you certify (by clicking on "agree") or your application packet will not be considered complete.
I agree
Date
Full LEGAL name [First, Middle, Last, Suffix (Jr, III)] John Smith