Not only does conviction of an OVI result in jail time, fines, and license suspension, having a permanent mark on your criminal record can have a disastrous impact on your career and future employment opportunities. This is particularly true if you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), required to drive as part of your job duties, or are seeking work in a field such as teaching, law enforcement, or the military.
Those charged with a drunk driving offense need to understand the challenges they face in their employment situation. Knowing the consequences can help you to be better prepared to overcome the obstacles you may face.
Current Employment
You may be required to disclose any convictions to your current employer. While employers are generally concerned only with the convictions, there may be a time when you have to explain why you are leaving the office to attend a court hearing or meet with lawyers.
Some companies have mandatory firing policies when an employee receives an OVI conviction. This is particularly true in occupations that involve driving as part of job duties or working with children. Ensure to review our employee handbook to see what your current employer’s policy is in regard to a criminal conviction.
Since license suspension is a common penalty associated with conviction, you may have to rely on friends, public transportation, or ridesharing services (e.g. Uber or Lyft) to commute to work. Additionally, you may also be required to take classes focused on drunk driving prevention and substance abuse. All of which may cause you to run the risk of chronic tardiness.
Future Employment
An OVI conviction becomes part of the public record, meaning that any employer who wants to look it up, can. Some potential employers may consider this incident as a reflection of character, and it will be near impossible to get a job where you are required to drive.
It is imperative to be honest when you are filling out your job applications. If you lie, it may be grounds for dismissal once you have been offered a position. When it comes to interviews, provide an apologetic and articulate explanation. Interested employers may want evidence that the incident was a momentary lapse of judgment that won’t be repeated.
Let Our Cleveland DUI Attorney Protect Your Future
In considering the employment consequences of drunk driving, it is critical to retain experienced legal consultation from a qualified criminal defense attorney. With more than 70 years of legal experience, Patituce & Associates can defend your rights and protect your best interests in court.
For more information, contact us and schedule a free consultation today.