Coming home from a get-together with friends to celebrate your new job, law enforcement pulled you over on suspicion of drunk driving.
You have never before had anything to do with the law and have no idea what to expect. Can a DUI conviction have a negative effect on your future?
Job prospects
If your new position involves driving for the company, you may lose your job before you even begin when your employer discovers your conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol. Many employers research the backgrounds of their applicants, so you may find a new job search problematic.
Continuing education
You may be working to put yourself through college and are looking forward to graduate school. Through a background check, admissions personnel will also see the DUI mark on your record, which may prevent you from attending the school of your choice. In addition, you may be denied the state licensing or certification required for professions such as law, medicine or education.
Auto insurance issues
A DUI conviction also affects your auto insurance. Your insurer may consider you a high-risk driver and either cancel your policy or issue you a new policy at a much higher rate.
Legal challenges
As a first-time offender, your conviction for DUI could result in some harsh penalties, including driver’s license suspension, fines and even jail time. Remember that you have rights as well as a future to protect. An effective defense strategy would begin with a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding your arrest. The investigation could reveal an administrative error, an equipment malfunction or other problems that would enable your advocate to successfully challenge the evidence against you.
