At Patituce & Associates, clients who have been charged with DUI often ask us if they are required to tell their employer about their drunk driving arrest. In most cases, the answer is no.
However, there are some circumstances that require employees to notify their employers of an arrest. For example, if there is a policy—or if you have a contract with your employer—that states you inform your boss of any arrests or charges, you must do so. Failure to disclose any arrests to your employer can result in disciplinary actions, including termination. Take time to review your employment contract to determine whether it is mandatory to disclose your arrest to your employer.
On the other hand, if you a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you must report the arrest to your employer, even if you were driving your personal vehicle. Professionals such as doctors, dentists, nurses, teachers, realtors, or other professions that require a state license must report arrests whenever they seek renewal.
Remember, Ohio is at an “at-will employment” state. This means that employers can fire their employees for any reason without providing any warning.
If you inform your employer about the DUI charge, ask if they can reserve judgment until after the legal process takes its course. Then, remind your boss that one arrest doesn’t define who you are as a person and ask to be judged based on your job performance.
Lastly, hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you either get your charges dismissed or significantly reduced.
If you have been arrested for a DUI in Cleveland, OH, contact Patituce & Associates at (440) 471-7784 and schedule a free consultation today.
