How should I answer an interview question regarding a misdemeanor on my record?
S W asked:
I was recently terminated from a job and charged with a misdemeanor due to theft (no cash, only merchandise). Although I am 40 years of age and have no criminal record at all (not even a parking ticket), I made a one-time mistake and I faced the music. The misdemeanor is going to dropped soon and I have willingly agreed to make amends by paying restitution to my former employer. However, even though the charge will be dismissed, it will remain on my record as being charged with the crime for at least a year until I can have it expunged. I am aware that most employeers only ask about felony convictions, but by some chance, if the question should arise regarding the misdemeanor charge against me that was dismissed, how should I respond? I have no desire to be untruthful, but then again, I see no reason to give every detail regarding my one-time lapse of judgement. I’m interviewing for good jobs, but I’m afraid that the question will come up and I don’t know how to answer it.
I was recently terminated from a job and charged with a misdemeanor due to theft (no cash, only merchandise). Although I am 40 years of age and have no criminal record at all (not even a parking ticket), I made a one-time mistake and I faced the music. The misdemeanor is going to dropped soon and I have willingly agreed to make amends by paying restitution to my former employer. However, even though the charge will be dismissed, it will remain on my record as being charged with the crime for at least a year until I can have it expunged. I am aware that most employeers only ask about felony convictions, but by some chance, if the question should arise regarding the misdemeanor charge against me that was dismissed, how should I respond? I have no desire to be untruthful, but then again, I see no reason to give every detail regarding my one-time lapse of judgement. I’m interviewing for good jobs, but I’m afraid that the question will come up and I don’t know how to answer it.