A natural concern is whether your employer will be informed if you’ve recently been charged with a DUI. Generally, law enforcement agencies don’t directly notify employers about DUI charges. However, there are situations where your employer may find out, especially if your job involves driving or if the DUI case becomes a public record.
How Soon Does A Notification Of A DUI Occur?
The timing of DUI notifications can vary. If your job involves driving, your employer might be notified relatively quickly, especially if your license is suspended. Your license is immediately suspended after a DUI is issued, even if you aren’t notified immediately.
On the legal side, court proceedings may take some time, and it’s not an immediate process. However, once a DUI conviction is made, the information may become accessible through public records.
How Do Employers Find Out About A DUI?
Employers often discover DUI charges through background checks. While not all employers conduct these checks after hiring an employee, some do, especially for certain positions or industries.
For example, someone who must drive a commercial vehicle for a living must have a professional license that remains valid at all times. When your license becomes suspended, especially when you’re convicted of a DUI, you won’t be able to complete your job legally. Even if you are not formally arrested and charged, your employer could suspend or terminate your employment.
Employers that don’t routinely conduct background checks after someone is hired, might not become aware of your DUI immediately. You must consult with a DUI lawyer before approaching your employer to disclose your DUI if you think it will affect your employment.
Background checks can reveal criminal records; a DUI may be part of that report. Additionally, if your DUI case involves a court appearance or if it becomes public information, it could be found through online searches.
Do Employers Care About A DUI?
Whether employers care about a DUI largely depends on the nature of your job and the company’s policies. Jobs that involve driving, handling sensitive information, or a high level of responsibility might be more impacted by a DUI charge.
Some employers have strict policies regarding criminal records, while others may consider the circumstances and how long ago the incident occurred.
Ultimately, even if your job does not involve operating a vehicle or maintaining a valid driver’s license, most employers care about criminal charges on your record. Having an employee with a criminal history that involves driving under the influence could dampen or threaten the company’s reputation. If you are convicted and arrested for a DUI, it’s important to legally protect yourself and seek legal help as soon as possible.
Prospective Employers
If you’re job hunting, be prepared to address the issue during interviews, emphasizing personal growth and lessons learned. Some employers may appreciate the transparency, demonstrating that you are taking responsibility for your actions, however, not all will. Sadly, the reality of having a DUI on your record means it will put a damper on the first impression you’re trying to make.
Much like we have advised above, it would be wise to seek legal advice on how to discuss your DUI while an attorney actively fights to get your license back.
Get Your License Back With Dignity
Nothing can be more degrading than having your license suspended after a DUI. Getting your driver’s license reinstated will not only give you back the confidence lost during this conviction, but a better chance to move forward with your life.
If you need help getting your driver’s license back after it has been revoked, schedule a consultation with the attorneys at Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. Our team will diligently fight to get back your driving privileges.