For me, this matter is of great concern.
In brief - 37 years ago - I was convicted of shoplifting and paid a hefty fine. My life changed from that day. I held down good jobs, brought a flat etc and never committed any crime afterwards.
I subsequently married but my husband is very against law breaking (theft) so I never told him my past.. Now we intend to move to Spain, but my criminal record haunts me.
The fact 'No Live Trace' will show on my application and my husband's will show 'No Trace' will cause a problem.
My friend suggested I 'play down' my crime - ie just say I was caught drink driving at a young age - but I worry what I did will actually be mentioned, ie shoplifting.
So what I'd like to know is does anyone in authority actually mention the nature of the crime you were actually convicted of?