Facing DUI charges is inherently stressful. Not only will the potential penalties loom over you until the case is resolved, but you may also be worried about employment. Whether a DUI arrest or conviction will affect employment depends on a variety of factors. Fortunately, a criminal defense attorney can explain all possible ramifications based on the specifics of your case. In the meantime, here’s some general information about earning a living wage after being charged with driving under the influence.

Following the Arrest

Whether you must disclose a DUI arrest to your boss depends on the terms of your employment. If operating a motor vehicle is a job duty, for example, you may be obligated to tell your employer. You may also have to disclose the arrest if you’ve been granted access to a company car. Finally, some organizations require notification of all arrests, and they run background checks periodically to confirm compliance. 

Unfortunately, even if you aren’t required to report the arrest, your employer could find out anyway. For example, you might have to miss a considerable amount of work to attend various court proceedings. You may also be less reliable for as long as your license is suspended, especially if you have to use public transportation. This, in turn, could affect job performance and ultimately threaten your future at the company. 

Following a Conviction 

If you’re convicted of DUI, it could affect both current employment and future career prospects. Since Alabama is an at-will state, employers have the right to terminate employees without cause. In other words, if your boss isn’t understanding, you could theoretically lose your job. For this reason, it’s wise to hire an attorney and do everything possible to fight the charges. 

Having a conviction will also make it harder to find new work. Most employers will ask outright if candidates have been convicted of any felonies or misdemeanors and then conduct a background check to confirm. While it’s understandable why commercial driving may no longer be an option following a DUI conviction, there are several other jobs that you may not be able to perform either. For example, it can be more difficult to work with children or secure employment with a government agency if you have a DUI conviction.

If you’re facing DUI charges in Alabama, turn to Daniel H. Craven, P.C. Practicing out of Gulf Shores, this DUI defense attorney is available 24/7, since arrests can happen at all hours of the day and night. For nearly two decades, he has been helping clients throughout Baldwin County resolve all kinds of legal disputes. In addition to fighting criminal charges, he can assist with real estate transactions, personal injury claims, and construction litigation. To schedule your first meeting with this seasoned attorney, fill out the form on his website or call (251) 968-8170 today.