Around 1993 I was arrested for possession of stolen property as a juvenile. Charges were completely dropped, no sealing or expungement needed. In 1996 or so, I was ticketed after pulling out of a parking lot and crossing double yellow lines. I pled guilty, paid the fine (couldn't do traffic school). Unbeknownst to me, the Court read the officer's handwriting wrong, and an (a) turned into a (b), and an infraction turned into a misdemeanor. I did not know this a long time after I paid the ticket. I went to the officer to confirm, then to the court. They said too bad, so sad. I was a kid in college then, knowing what I know now I would have appealed it and had it overturned.
In any event, I've gone on to a graduate degree and a license that requires an FBI background check, which I passed. I did an FBI background check and it is completely empty. I disclosed the 1996 misdemeanor. I did not disclose the juvenile arrest because once you say "Yes" to being convicted, the "have you ever been arrested" question doesn't appear.
Everyone else in my family was approved in about 2 weeks, but mine is taking much longer. Wondering if this has anything to do with it.