According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, South Carolina was ranked tenth in the nation for DUI related deaths last year. As such, it is important to note that South Carolina takes DUI cases very seriously. Being arrested and convicted of DUI in South Carolina can have lasting impacts on every aspect of your life, especially current or future employment opportunities.
If I am currently employed, what will happen if I am arrested for DUI?
Nowadays most employment contracts contain a provision stating that, if you are arrested or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony while you are employed at the company, you must disclose it. Thus, even if you are charged but not yet convicted of DUI then your current employment could be at risk. Another issue could be your job requiring a certain level of security clearance that could be impacted by a DUI arrest and/or conviction. If your driver’s license is suspended because of your DUI arrest, then your current job could be in jeopardy if you are required to drive during the scope of your employment.
Will a DUI arrest or conviction impact my future employment opportunities?
A DUI arrest, and especially a conviction, can have a huge effect on the opportunities for your future career. Most potential employers will ask right away whether you have a criminal conviction during the initial job application process. It is very hard to explain a DUI conviction on your job application and will likely be a red flag.
Regardless if you are a first-time offender (meaning you have no other record), a DUI conviction will likely show up on a background check and could very well prevent you from being hired by a company. Even if you failed to disclose the DUI conviction on your application, you could be caught being dishonest if it shows up on your background check. So, either way you look at it, you will not be hired for the job. Another issue could be that the company you are applying for has a code of conduct policy that it will not hire a person with a criminal record. There could be insurance liability issues if, for example, a company vehicle is required as part of the scope of employment.
If you are seeking to join the military or applying for another job requiring a certain level of security clearance, you may be unable to do so because of your DUI conviction. Finally, if you are a licensed professional, such as a doctor or dentist, you could also face negative repercussions from a criminal conviction. It is crucial to be aware of these implications from the very beginning of your criminal case.
If you have been arrested for a DUI in South Carolina, you should consult a DUI lawyer immediately.
As you can see, being arrested for a DUI can turn your world upside down. Criminal convictions can follow you around and greatly impact your future aspirations. Not to mention the negative stigma our society associates with criminal convictions. Finally, the administrative hearing you will be facing with the DMV.
At Young and Young, we have successfully handled thousands of DUI cases as both prosecutors, a judge and long time criminal defense trial attorneys. We know what it takes to make or break your DUI case. We are available 24/7 to schedule your free consultation today.