Driving under the influence, or DUI, is a serious charge. If you are convicted of this crime, then you will have a permanent mark on your record. A conviction will follow you forever and change many parts of your life. You should understand how a DUI conviction could affect your employment and relationships.
Problems Due To Missed Work
You could have problems with your employer due to missed work after a DUI conviction. You might have already lost time because of court dates. Mandatory alcohol diversion programs or jail time can keep you out of work. Missing too much work can lead to demotions or job loss.
Finding a New Job Is More Difficult
You will have a more difficult time finding a new job after a DUI conviction. Employers are less likely to hire someone with a conviction. There are also careers where a DUI can completely disqualify you from employment. A single DUI conviction can limit your future career options and make promotions unavailable.
Getting Around Will Become More Difficult
A DUI conviction could result in a suspended driver’s license. This will make it more difficult to get around. You might not be able to get to work on time anymore because you are relying on alternate forms of transportation. This is just one reason why it is important to talk to a lawyer when accused of a DUI. An attorney could shorten or prevent a full license suspension.
Less Trust with Family, Friends and Coworkers
A DUI conviction can cause family, friends and coworkers to trust you less. Those people could start to scrutinize every aspect of your behavior or assume that you have been drinking when you make a mistake. They might stop trusting you with certain responsibilities. This can destroy relationships.
Loss of Professional Licenses
If you need to maintain a professional license to work, then you could lose it after a DUI conviction. Some professional organizations have rules about DUI or criminal convictions. Losing your professional license can stop you from working in your chosen career field.
Strained Personal Relationships
Your own feelings of shame, embarrassment or failure can put strain on your personal relationships. You might withdraw socially or become emotionally detached. This strain could potentially lead to loss of long-time friends or divorce from a spouse.
A DUI conviction can have a devastating effect on your career and your relationships. This is why it is important to do everything possible to avoid a conviction. Talking to a lawyer can help you to understand your rights, and they can help you navigate the legal system, say the experts at the Knochel Law Offices P.C. Taking the time to dispute the charges or negotiate a deal through a lawyer can prevent these problems from occurring.
This article is courtesy of Anita Ginsburg, a freelance writer from Denver who often writes about home, family, law and business. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family when she isn’t writing.
