A DUI offense can have serious consequences. It may lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Your insurance rates could skyrocket, and you’ll have a criminal record.
If you’re facing a DUI charge in New Jersey, it’s important to consult with the DUI lawyer in New Jersey. He will review your case and provide expert guidance on the best way to navigate the situation.
Risks of DUI Charges on Employment
Facing DUI charges can negatively impact your employment in many ways. Here’s how DUI charges can affect your job:
Job Termination
Many employers have policies against DUI convictions. A DUI charge can lead to job termination, especially if your job involves driving or if your employer has a strict code of conduct.
Suspension or Revocation of Professional Licenses
If your job requires a professional license, a DUI charge can jeopardize it. Many licensing boards take DUI convictions seriously and may suspend or revoke your license.
Background Checks
DUI convictions can show up on background checks, which can be detrimental when you’re applying for a new job or a promotion within your current company.
Insurance Costs
Some employers provide company vehicles and insurance. If you’re convicted of a DUI, your employer may require you to bear the costs resulting from cutbacks or increased premiums, affecting your paycheck as a result.
Missed Work Due to Legal Obligations
Dealing with a DUI charge often requires court appearances and legal meetings. This can lead to missed workdays, which can frustrate your employer and negatively impact your job.
Loss of Commercial Driver’s License
For those in the transportation industry, a DUI can result in the loss of a commercial driver’s license, effectively ending your career in that field.
Security Clearances
If your job requires security clearances, a DUI can be a red flag. In some companies, facing a DUI may lead to the revocation of your clearance and job loss.
Decreased Productivity
The stress and anxiety of dealing with a DUI charge can decrease your job performance. This may not only affect your work but also your relationship with colleagues.
Limited Job Prospects
Some employers simply won’t hire DUI offenders (convicts or suspects), especially in sensitive roles that involve trust and responsibility.
DUI Expungement
Here are the steps involved in DUI expungement:
Step 1: Understand Eligibility
The eligibility criteria can vary by state, but generally, you must have completed all the terms of your sentence, including probation, fines, and any required classes or programs.
Step 2: Gather Documentation
Collect all relevant documents related to your DUI case, including
- Court records
- Probation completion certificates, and
- Evidence of any fines paid.
Having this documentation ready will streamline the expungement process.
Step 3: Seek Legal Consultation
Consider consulting with an experienced DUI attorney. They can provide legal guidance, assess your eligibility, and ensure you follow the correct procedures. While it’s possible to attempt expungement without an attorney, their expertise can be invaluable.
Step 4: Petition for Expungement
Prepare and file a petition for expungement with the court. This document should include your personal information, details of your DUI case, and a formal request for expungement. Ensure it is accurate, complete, and filed in the correct jurisdiction.
Step 5: Serve Notice
In some cases, you may need to serve notice to the prosecutor’s office, allowing them to contest the expungement. This step varies by state and case specifics.
Step 6: Attend a Hearing
If a hearing is required, attend it with your attorney. Be prepared to present your case, explaining why you believe your DUI conviction should be expunged. Your attorney can help you build a strong argument.
Step 7: Await the Decision
The court will review your case and decide on your expungement request. This can take several weeks to months, depending on the caseload of the court.
Step 8: Comply with Court Orders
If your expungement is granted, follow any orders or requirements set by the court. This may include sealing records, updating databases, and ensuring your conviction is no longer accessible to the public.
Step 9: Inform Relevant Parties
Once your DUI expungement is complete, inform your employer, insurance company, or other entities that may have been aware of your conviction. They should no longer consider it part of your criminal record.
Step 10: Monitor Your Record
Regularly check your criminal record to ensure that the DUI conviction has been removed as per the expungement order. It’s essential to confirm that your record is clean for any future background checks.
If you’re facing a DUI charge, it’s wise to consult a lawyer to explore your legal options and work towards a favorable outcome in your case. Make sure to act swiftly and responsibly to protect your current job and future employment prospects.