I am concerned that a misdemenor citation will haunt me in future job searches. If I go to a fopp program and the charges are dismissed- does this mean there will not be an arrest record?

Or will there be still be a record of the citation- I am confused if the issuance ofa citation is an arrest since I did not go to "jail".

The problem is what to answer the job question have you ever been arrested for a felony or misdemenor when there is a requirement for a background check and fingerprinting.

Also- if there is a record- can I have it sealed or expunded after three years? ( and then apply for a job and have a clean record when ther search is made).

Please advise
Bob