Can A DUI Result In Job Loss?

A DUI can have an impact on your auto insurance premium and leave you with a criminal record, but it could also lead to other unexpected consequences. In some situations, it is possible to lose your job if you are convicted of DUI. If you were arrested for DUI, here is what you need to know about its potential impact on your job.  

How Could a DUI Lead to Being Terminated?

A DUI does not always result in termination, but there are some instances in which it can. Whether or not they apply to you depends on the nature of your job and your employer's policies.  

For instance, some employers have policies that allow them to automatically terminate employees who are convicted of certain crimes. If that is the case for your employer, there is very little you can do to avoid termination. 

If you have a job that requires you to serve as a licensed driver, such as a shuttle bus driver, a DUI could mean job loss. Your state likely calls for your license to be suspended after being convicted of DUI. Without a valid license, you cannot perform your job duties.  

Dealing with a DUI can be a time-consuming process. In fact, you could go to court several times before a decision is made in your case. You also have to consider the time spent with your dui attorney building a defense. Unfortunately, your consultations and court appointments might be during your work hours. Depending on your attendance, your employer might terminate you for missing work.  

What Can You Do?

An arrest likely will not lead to termination. However, the conviction can. Therefore, it is important that you do everything possible to fight the charge.  

There are several ways you can prevent a DUI from impacting your employment. For instance, you can attempt to negotiate with the prosecutor. He or she might be willing to allow you a chance to plea to a misdemeanor charge, such as reckless driving, and still retain your license and job.  

Depending on the state in which you live, you could possibly qualify for a pre-trial diversion program. In some states, you do not have to enter a guilty plea on the charge. Once you finish the terms, such as attending alcohol treatment, the charge could possibly be removed from your record.  

Your DUI attorney can help you explore other ways to keep your job and fight the charges against you.