It Happens to The Best of Us
The dreaded DUI/DWI offense. Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated, seems to be one crime that doesn’t play favorites when it comes to offenders. Rich or poor, young or old, highly educated or not, getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol seems to be a common mistake.
In fact, Kansas saw over 13,000 DUI arrests in 2012. We’ve all heard about the celebrity cases: Amanda Bynes, Lindsey Lohan, and more recently, Lohan’s mother. And we’ve all heard about the athlete cases: U-Conn’s Tyler Olander squeaked by and avoided DUI charges, when after failing field sobriety tests, his breathalyzer test showed up just under the legal limit. Most recently, Alden Smith of the San Francisco 49ers faced DUI and Marijuana possession. He did start for the team against the Colts the Sunday after being jailed and arrested early that previous Friday morning when his truck hit a tree. He is now publicly apologizing for “letting everybody down.
But what makes a DUI/DWI so devastating is its ability and its likelihood to seriously alter the course of your employment. Watching celebrities struggle with DUI’s may be entertaining, but when these offenses hit close to home, the reality of a criminal record quickly becomes sobering.
Employment Impact
Whenever you apply for a job, an employer will most likely do a background check before they hire you. Even if you got a DUI while you were in high school, it will show up unless you get it expunged.
There is no law in place that prohibits employers from not hiring people with DUI/DWI convictions. But if you are one of two people being considered for a position and they discover your criminal record, they may decide to choose the other person even, if you are more qualified. Moreover, several government or law enforcement positions refuse to hire anyone with a DUI or DWI on their record. Having a DUI or DWI on your record is a sure way to be turned down from these jobs in an instant.
Drugs Are Not an Exception
You should also know that driving under the influence also includes driving while impaired by drugs, such as marijuana. Just ask, Smith of the 49ers. Even with some states legalizing marijuana, it is still illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired.
If You’re One of the 13,000 Kansan’s charged with a DUI, the good news is that you can expunge your record and you can apply to jobs with peace of mind again. Please note that the laws and requirements do vary by state. Grover Law Firm can help you expunge your record and get you back in the workforce!
Get DUI Help from Grover Law Firm
If you’ve been charged with DUI, our professional attorneys at Grover Law Firm in Kansas City can help. In order to avoid significant fines, revocation of driving privileges or even jail time, it is essential to contact a DUI attorney as soon as possible after being charged.
You should never drink and drive, but if you do find yourself facing DUI charges, give us a call immediately or visit our website to request more information. We’ll do everything we can to ensure the best outcome for your case — and your life.