That may cause applicants from abroad to either self-disclose problems or apply elsewhere. Applicants should be asked directly if they have a criminal record in the interview and employment application. It is crucial that applicants be asked directly during the process if they have a criminal conviction or pending case. Ideally, that language should be in the employment application. Always ask the broadest question allowed by the law in your state.
Some employers are under the mistaken belief they can only ask about felonies.
However, misdemeanor convictions can also represent serious crimes, and should be included as allowed by state law. Employers should carefully phrase the question in order to not elicit any information about arrests not resulting in convictions. Employers are generally limited to convictions or pending cases. Ask the applicant to describe any convictions or pending cases and give the specific location. This allows the employer to pull the court file and to determine if the applicant is truthful about the nature of the criminal case.