How to write a letter explaining criminal history

Keep your description brief. Your whole letter should be about three paragraphs. Begin by telling how you got in trouble in the first place, but keep this part short. Give just enough detail for the employer to understand the nature of your infraction, but do not give too much detail.

When talking about your criminal history, take responsibility for past actions and emphasize how you have moved forward in a positive way. Share positive experiences with potential employers. Potential employers will not be impressed by hearing negative feelings you have about your case.

Explain your conviction.

If the application gives you space to explain your conviction, and if the conviction is far in the past, state what the conviction was and how long ago it happened, explain that you’ve turned your life around, and welcome an opportunity to discuss it in person.

Keep it simple, and emphasize the positive.

Say something like: I understand that you have questions about my background. I assure you that I have learned from my mistakes and have corrected past problems. I have spent time training for this career path because I am more mature now and have a solid plan for my future.

A: While there is no federal law specifically prohibiting employers from asking applicants if they‘ve ever been convicted of a crime, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recommends employers avoid asking for this information on an application form.

Tell the truth and be honest.

If you have anything on your record that might be considered an issue, you should bring it up and explain that issue. Being honest and direct about past issues can overpower the issues themselves. Always be honest about past issues that might show up on your background check.

Common background report red flags include application discrepancies, derogatory marks and criminal records.

An employment background check can include, but is not limited to, a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and medicine screening. If the position is specialized, applicants and employees may undergo further screenings.