Do a simple search regarding what to wear to an interview and you'll find this topic has been covered numerous times in many, many posts. You'll also find a great deal of information regarding background checks if you search that topic too. Nobody will probably be able to guarantee you one way or the other if your arrest for simple assault will preclude you from being hired, but I do believe many will tell you it's going to certainly be a problem. Here's why: you'll find that in almost every hiring situation the RR will have hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of people applying for a small number of available positions (and with unemployment hovering near 10% they'll be more than normal). Now in all likelyhood the RR will be able to find ample quantities of applicants "without" any background problems who pass the various tests, physicals, interview, etc..and because of this, you will most likely be passed up. I know this sounds negative and I don't want to deter you from applying, in fact, I say definitely apply, but make sure your honest and open about this issue. Don't try and hide it or "forget" to mention it on your application. They will find out about it and you'll be rejected for sure. Unfortunately in almost every case the RR has a very large pool of applicants to choose from, and because of this they can be extremely "picky" about who they hire. In all likelyhood they will choose another applicant with a clean record over someone who has a conviction. Why would they take a chance when they don't have to? In your case they may worry your a hothead and might hit a customer which of coarse opens them to lawsuits. Please don't think I'm judging you or being a j__k, I'm just trying to honestly answer your questions from what I've learned while applying myself. Just remember to be honest with them and explain what happened. After that, it's out of your hands and there's nothing you can do. I hope it works out for you and you get hired on. Best of luck!!! Drew g