A DUI Conviction Can Greatly Impact Your Future Job Prospects
March 30, 2018
If you're arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), then it's highly probable that you'll have your driver's licensed suspended, have fines imposed and spend at least one night in jail. What you often don't hear about, however, are the long term consequences that having a DUI conviction on your record may have on future job prospects.
Anyone arrested for a DUI will immediately have their license suspended. If you regularly take a car to get to school or work, then you'll no longer be able to do so. Instead, you'll have to rely on taking a bus, walking or taking an Uber or a cab. If any of these don't pick you up and drop you off as scheduled, then you may arrive late to work. Excessive tardiness may cost you your job.
If you job is one in which you operate a vehicle, then your employer may have no other option than to let you go, since you can't perform your regularly scheduled work duties anymore. Even if driving is not part of your job description, your employer may have a policy in place requiring you to disclose any arrests. Once you tell them that you were arrested for a DUI, they may fire you.
If you work in a job that requires a professional license, such as is the case with doctors, lawyers or plumbers, then you may also be required by law to disclose your DUI arrest to the state licensing board. When you do, they may choose to suspend your license, making it illegal to practice in your chosen profession.
In some cases, alternative sentencing programs or rehabilitation programs may be offered by a judge as a way to ensure defendants get the help they need and to avoid a long-term mark on an individual's criminal record. Taking part in these programs may also restrict your ability to keep a job.
Finally, when applying for jobs, you may be asked to disclose previous convictions. In order to qualify for student loans or different educational opportunities, you may also be asked to list any previous arrests as well. Your prospects may be greatly hindered by a DUI arrest or conviction.
If you've been arrested on suspicion of driving drunk, then a Christiansburg DUI defense attorney can advise you of the many other ways a conviction can impact your ability to earn a living in the future.