If you get arrested on DWI charges, you certainly will be concerned about spending time behind bars, losing your driver’s license and paying fines. These are the immediate ramifications of a conviction.
But if you are convicted, you may also worry about your job. Could you get fired and lose your employment because of this DWI? Is it going to be far more costly, in this sense, than you realized?
Your professional license
In some industries, you could lose your professional license. For instance, maybe you have a commercial driver’s license or maybe you have a medical license to work in the healthcare industry. If the licensing board takes away that license, then you will no longer be able to continue your employment.
Lack of transportation
Some workers are also terminated just because they don’t have any transportation options. Maybe you have a half-hour commute to work every day, but you’re now going to lose your driver’s license for the next year. If you can’t get to work, your employer may replace you.
Conduct policies
Finally, many businesses just have personal conduct policies. If a worker does something that brings negative attention to the business, such as being accused of driving under the influence, that worker can be fired. The company may not be obligated to fire you, of course, but that doesn’t mean your employer won’t make that decision anyway.
All of this shows you how serious the ramifications of a drunk driving arrest can be. They can have a major impact on your future, which is why it’s so important for you to understand all of the legal defense options that you have at your disposal.