Many people know someone who has had a conviction of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, so such a conviction might not seem like a big deal. However, DUI charges are always serious matters, and they are particularly serious if you are on a professional career path. In addition to court-ordered penalties, a DUI conviction can have many lasting consequences that might hinder your career or future aspirations.
Professional Licensure
Many different professions require that you first obtain a license from your state to practice in that industry. This is true for many careers, including:
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Dentistry
- Nursing
- Accounting
- Law
- Teaching
- Real estate
- Investments
Before your state issues you a license, the licensing board will examine your past conduct, including conducting a criminal background check. If you have a DUI conviction, it could complicate the process. If you have other issues with the board or your conviction is very recent, you might have your license denied altogether.
Government Professionals
Many government professionals require security clearances for their jobs. If you have a DUI conviction, it can give officials pause when deciding whether to grant the needed clearance. While a DUI conviction might not jeopardize your ability to get a clearance on its own, the combination of a conviction and other questionable circumstances could prevent you from getting your security clearance.
Keeping or Finding a Job
Many employers of professionals do not want employees with any type of criminal background. If you get convicted of DUI, you might lose your job. If you apply for a new position or a promotion, the company very well might conduct a background check. Even a single conviction might make it difficult to find a job.
Educational Programs
If you have aspirations of entering a specific professional career, you will likely need to get accepted to and complete an advanced educational program, such as law school or medical school. Having any type of criminal record can create challenges for acceptance into these types of programs. This can throw off your entire intended career path before it even begins.
Contact a Fargo DUI Defense Lawyer as Soon as Possible
If you are accused of driving under the influence, it is important to avoid a conviction whenever you can, especially if you are a professional. You need the help of an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Please email our experienced criminal defense attorney Tatum O’Brien directly, or call O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys at 701-235-8000 or toll-free 877-235-8002.
