How do you explain a charge to an employer?

Asked by: Jalen Prosacco  |  Last update: November 18, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (35 votes)

It is up to you, but we recommend honesty. On the application, write ”will discuss in interview” rather than a lengthy explanation of past convictions. In an interview, keep explanations brief, and stress what you have learned from your conviction and time in prison, how you have changed, and your skills or assets.

How do you write an explanation of charges?

  1. Make your presentation honest, clear and concise.
  2. Take responsibility for your actions without excuses or blaming others.
  3. Sincerely speak to the feelings you have regarding your behavior – show remorse.
  4. In a positive way, state the price you have paid and what you have learned from this experience.

Do I have to tell my employer I have been charged?

Yes, you are required to report the matter. If you fail to do so and they find out ( they monitor for violations) you most definitely will be discharged. You do not state what you are being charged with, but a no contest plea is not the way to go.

How do you explain something on a background check?

Don't lie, don't lie by omission and don't try to skirt around the truth. Here's the deal – if you have something in your past that makes you ineligible to be hired, it'll get found out. So, tell the truth. You can certainly explain the circumstances or talk about how you have taken responsibility for your actions.

How would you describe a criminal record?

A criminal record, formally known as a summary criminal history, or more commonly known as a “rap” sheet, is a list of arrests and convictions. Any time the police fingerprint you because of a criminal investigation, that information is added to your summary criminal history.

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How do I explain a criminal record to my employer?

It is up to you, but we recommend honesty. On the application, write ”will discuss in interview” rather than a lengthy explanation of past convictions. In an interview, keep explanations brief, and stress what you have learned from your conviction and time in prison, how you have changed, and your skills or assets.

How to get a job with a felony charge?

Tips for getting a job if you have a felony
  1. Know the details of your background check. ...
  2. Specify your intent to discuss the felony during the interview. ...
  3. Be honest about your history. ...
  4. Seek out organizations that specifically provide opportunities.

What is a red flag on a background check?

A red flag in a background check is anything alarming or concerning about a person's past. This could be a history of breaking the law, lying about work experience or education, or other serious issues. However, not all red flags are the same. Some might be small and not that serious, depending on the job.

How to explain misdemeanor on job application?

When it comes to explaining a misdemeanor conviction on a job application, remember these four crucial tips:
  1. Do not lie.
  2. Avoid going into details.
  3. Explain how it has changed your life for the better.
  4. Provide references.

Do misdemeanors show up on background checks?

Often, even seemingly minor crimes can raise a red flag. A background check in California will typically show a misdemeanor conviction. For example, a history of driving under the influence (DUI) can be a sign of things to come and show that a candidate may not be a responsible person.

Will I lose my job if I get a misdemeanor?

You can generally still get a job with a misdemeanor conviction on your record. But some offenses may make it more difficult or unfeasible to land a specific type of job. For example: a misdemeanor involving theft, fraud, or dishonesty may make it difficult to secure a banking position, or.

Will jobs hire you with pending charges?

California law permits the inclusion of all pending criminal charges in a background check, so even if you have not been convicted, the mere presence of charges against you might influence an employer's decision.

Can I be fired for being charged with a crime?

A number of states, including California, prohibit employers from considering arrests that do not lead to convictions when making hiring and termination decisions.

How do you explain charge?

  1. Electric charge is the physical property of matter that causes it to experience a force when placed in an electromagnetic field.
  2. Positive and negative electric charges are the two types of charges commonly carried by charge carriers, protons and electrons.
  3. Energy is created by the movement of charges.

How do you write a proper explanation?

How to write an explanation text
  1. Start with a question including how or why.
  2. Think of the main points you want to highlight in order to effectively answer the question. ...
  3. Have a clear introduction explaining the topic.
  4. Write in the present tense and use action verbs.

How do you write a good explanation for evidence?

After you introduce evidence into your writing, you must say why and how this evidence supports your argument. In other words, you have to explain the significance of the evidence and its function in your paper.

Can a job not hire you because of a misdemeanor?

State and federal laws prohibit California employers from discriminating against applicants based on race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Being convicted of a misdemeanor does not necessarily preclude you from obtaining work in California.

How to explain charges on background check?

You may be asked for more detailed information, so be prepared to explain your circumstances. Answer honestly when directly asked about any past transgressions. This will support your credibility and character. There may be employers who will overlook a criminal record, when legally possible, to hire the right person.

What convictions can stop you from getting a job?

Theft/Shoplifting – Any conviction involving an element of dishonesty or stealing is a huge red flag for employers. They may worry you could steal from the company. Drug Possession – Even a minor marijuana possession charge can disqualify you from many jobs, especially those involving operating vehicles or machinery.

Will an employer tell you if you fail a background check?

Potential employers must notify you if a background check is the reason you didn't receive a job offer. You must receive a copy of your background check if you request one. You have the right to dispute any errors in your background check.

What does green flag mean on a background check?

In general, "green flags" on a background check refer to positive indicators or aspects of a candidate's background that align with the employer's criteria or expectations.

What is the orange flag on a background check?

Orange not a Red Flag? A bad reference is not always a red flag, requiring immediate rejection, but it is often an orange flag deserving investigation. For example, the most common reason that people are fired is for poor performance/not meeting targets after employee evaluation.

What jobs can you not get with a misdemeanor?

Committing theft, fraud, or dishonesty as a misdemeanor may make it hard to get a banking position. Having a misdemeanor drug offense could negatively affect your chances of landing a nursing job or a position in the medical field.

Do felonies go away after 7 years?

Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.

Why is it so hard for felons to get a job?

The challenges are particularly acute for those with drug and violent crime offenses. Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, found about 75% of hiring managers said they were unwilling to seriously consider applicants convicted of drug, property or violent crimes in a 2021 survey.