It is important to know your rights. There are federal, state, and local laws that protect the rights of people with criminal records. Let’s start with federal law which applies wherever you live.
Employment Rights
When looking for a job or trying to get a promotion, you have employment rights, even if you have a criminal history. There are laws that apply to criminal background checks and how employers can consider criminal records when making employment decisions. In addition, you are protected against discrimination based on your race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. Since some places provide additional rights, it is important to check the rights available to you in your state, county, and city.