Life is like a rollercoaster. You never know what kind of twists, turns, and drops you will experience along the way.
This can be especially true when it comes to getting arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DWI, also referred to as DWI). Once you’ve been convicted of a DWI, your life can take an unexpected turn that could have long-lasting effects on job opportunities and career prospects.
This article explores how a DWI may impact employment opportunities and strategies to mitigate damage caused by such convictions, including hiring a Minneapolis DWI lawyer.
How Does a DWI Affect Employment Prospects? Will It Ruin Your Career?
A DWI is like a dark cloud that hangs over your job prospects. It can cast a long shadow, blocking opportunities and preventing you from getting the jobs you want. Employers may view a DWI conviction as a sign of irresponsibility, harming your chances of getting hired.
Jobs that require a valid driver’s license or insurance coverage, such as trucking or delivery services, may be out of reach if your license is suspended or revoked due to a DWI conviction. A conviction can also result in job loss, especially if your employer has a zero-tolerance policy for criminal offenses.
Some of the most common jobs affected by a DWI conviction include:
- Commercial drivers, including truckers and bus drivers
- Delivery drivers
- Healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses
- Lawyers and legal professionals
- Government employees
- Military personnel
- Teachers and educators
- Law enforcement officers
But even if your job doesn’t require driving or a professional license, a criminal record can make it difficult to secure a job, as many employers conduct background checks on potential employees.
It’s not all bad news, though. There are ways to mitigate the impact of a DWI on your job prospects.
How Long Does a DWI Stay on Your Record?
Under Minnesota DWI laws, a conviction will remain on your criminal record permanently, meaning it can be seen by anyone who conducts a background check on you, including potential employers.
However, depending on the charge, you may be eligible for expungement—the legal process of sealing or destroying criminal records.
Do You Have to Disclose a DWI to Employers?
Many employers ask if you have a criminal conviction during the job application process, and unfortunately, a DWI is considered a criminal offense. Even if the employer doesn’t specifically ask about a DWI, it’s best to assume you must disclose the conviction.
Trying to hide the DWI conviction by not disclosing it during application is not recommended since employers can easily run a complete background check on you. If you’re caught hiding the conviction, you may be disqualified immediately from the position.
Steps to Mitigate the Impact of a DWI on Your Career
As the old saying goes, “No man is an island,” and so it goes for those convicted of a DWI. It can feel like the odds are against you, but there are steps you can take to mitigate the impact on your career. As difficult as it may be to face your past mistake head-on, doing so will benefit you in the long run.
If you are facing a DWI charge, here are four steps you can take to mitigate the consequences:
- Hire a DWI lawyer. Hiring an experienced DWI lawyer is crucial in building a strong defense against your charges.
- Be honest with your employer. Discuss the situation with them and explain the steps you are taking to address the issue, such as attending alcohol classes or obtaining a restricted license.
- Seek treatment. If you have an alcohol addiction, seeking treatment can show your commitment to addressing the underlying issue and may help you negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Pursue expungement. If you have completed all the requirements of your sentence, you may be eligible for expungement. An expungement can remove the conviction from your record, making it easier to find employment in the future.
It’s possible to turn lemons into lemonade after being charged with a DWI—all it requires is effort and determination. By taking proactive steps, you can find ways to mitigate the damage done by their mistake without compromising their ambition or goals.
Facing a DWI Charge? Contact Our DWI Lawyers at Martine Law Now.
If you are facing a DWI charge, taking steps to mitigate the impact on your career is essential. At Martine Law in Minneapolis, we are dedicated to helping you protect your future.
Our experienced DWI lawyers can guide you through the legal process and develop a strong defense to help reduce the impact of a DWI on your career.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your options. With our team, you can take the necessary steps to move forward and protect your future.
