Frequently
Asked Questions
What is law enforcement?
Law enforcement is the application of laws, maintenance
of public order, and the apprehension and arrest of
violators.
What do law enforcement
officers do?
Law enforcement officers enforce laws, maintain order,
and apprehend suspects based on the scope and jurisdiction
of their office, be it municipal, county, state or federal.
Where do law enforcement
officers work?
Law enforcement officers work in cities, unincorporated
areas, housing projects, school districts, airports
and harbors, national parks, Customs point of entry,
and even in foreign countries.
How much do law enforcement
officers earn?
Salaries vary according to geographical area, cost
of living, size of department, levels for formal education,
and years of experience (to $100,000).
What qualifications do
law enforcement candidates need?
At least a high school education or its equivalent;
a four-year degree is normally required for most federal
jobs. At least 15 criteria are normally used to judge
the suitability of a candidate. Excellent health and
physical conditioning are also required.
What are the steps to
apply for a law enforcement position?
Most law enforcement positions require a seven step
hiring process: written, oral and physical tests; a
background investigation, and medical, psychological
and polygraph exams.
How can I prepare to
take these tests?
Learn all you can about individual requirements as
they vary widely. Obtain study materials, take community
college classes or attend a specially designed study
preparation program such as the one offered by The Center
for Law Enforcement Training.
What kind of training
will I receive?
All new hires are sent to a training academy, which
can last upwards of six months. Law, physical tactics,
firearms practice and first aid are some of the topics
taught. Upon graduation, most departments require a
probation period of on the job training with a Field
Training Officer. Updates and continuing education are
also provided periodically.
What career paths are open to me within law enforcement?
Depending on the size of the agency and the scope of
the duties, tremendous variety exists in the area of
law enforcement. Everything from SWAT duty to investigation,
as well as undercover assignments in a multitude of
situations (drugs, vice, etc.).
Can I retire early at
age 50?
Many departments are now offering early an enhanced,
retirement (3% @ age 50).
This means that after 29 years of service, it is possible
to receive 87% of your final salary for life!
How about civilian careers
in law enforcement?
In addition to sworn positions requiring peace officer
status, there many well paid civilian jobs in all areas
of the department, including forensics and computers.
Most of these jobs are also highly competitive and equal
preparation for the serious candidate is a must.
Are there business opportunities
serving law enforcement?
Most of the purveyors of law enforcement equipment
are in the private sector and market to law enforcement
agencies. Therefore, numerous opportunities exist for
qualified people to work in these areas. Also, there
is considerable opportunity for entrepreneurs who have
new product and service ideas that can benefit public
safety.
How can The Center for
Law Enforcement help you to succeed?
We offer long and short-term preparation programs for
people pursuing careers in law enforcement. We offer
self-study materials, personal advising, processing
assistance and support. You can also attend martial
arts or defensive tactics training at our center where
we will develop and individualized fitness program
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