My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: California.

I have been applying for a bunch of jobs lately in California, ones which I'm clearly qualified for. I received my first offer letter (finally) last week, and I'm suppose to start the position relatively soon pending a background investigation. The problem, or potential problem, is that I have a misdemeanor conviction for possession of a controlled substance from 2001 in the state of Indiana.

So, the question I have which I cannot find a clearly stated answer to despite very thorough searches is if the California 7-year rule regarding criminal background checks applies to all convictions, or just those occurring within the state. An 11-year old misdemeanor for possession may not seem extremely damning but, this economy is fairly unforgiving and I would like to know if I'm on an equal playing field with other applicants or not.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and hopefully providing me with an answer!