While there is never a good age at which to get a DUI, there can be especially dire consequences for those over the age of 50 facing such a charge. The financial consequences may impact your retirement while the possibility of losing your license may make it harder to get to work. What are some good ways to handle a DUI if you are older?
Put Your Assets Into A Trust
If you can’t afford to pay the legal fees and fines associated with a DUI, it may be necessary to file for bankruptcy. In many cases, assets that are held in a trust outside of a bankruptcy estate are exempt from liquidation by creditors. This may allow you to discharge your debts without losing a house or a lucrative stock portfolio.
Ask For A Conditional License
In the event that you lose your license after being charged with a DUI, it may be possible to ask for a conditional license. This will make it possible to drive to work, to a treatment facility or to school. If you can’t get a conditional license, ask your boss about the possibility of working from home.
Watch Out For Age Discrimination
Those who are over the age of 50 already have a statistically harder time finding work regardless of economic conditions. If you have a DUI on your record, a company may try to use it as an excuse to not hire you or offer a promotion. However, this is still illegal and should not be tolerated by anyone regardless of your past misdeeds.
Talk With An Attorney
A good piece of advice for anyone facing a DUI charge is to talk with an attorney, like those at Steve W. Sumner, Attorney At Law. Legal counsel may be able to help you create a defense to the charge that may result in a plea or acquittal. If a plea deal is reached, it may make it possible to avoid a license suspension or some of the financial penalties associated with a DUI conviction. However, it is important to note that a plea still results in a conviction on your criminal record that may be seen during a background check.
Driving while impaired is a serious offense that can result in serious consequences. While it is best to not drive after drinking or using other substances, there are ways to limit the damage that a DUI charge may bring. Talking to an attorney may help you learn how to best manage your situation both now and in the long-term.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
