If you’ve never been charged with a DUI before, there might be some concern regarding how your life will be affected and what next steps you may want to take. After all, even people who generally have good judgment are at risk of making mistakes.
Driving under the influence rarely begins with bad intentions, but DUI charges are relatively common regardless of intent. While there are costs associated with potential damages, fines, and other penalties, there might also be an effect on your career. Whether you’re hoping to change jobs or move up in the company, what are the effects of a DUI charge on your career?
Ways a DUI Charge May Affect Your Louisiana Career
Getting a DUI charge may negatively affect your ability to change or maintain your career, which may be the case in several ways. You may be less likely to get jobs with the following requirements:
- Driving on company time: If you have a job that requires you to drive on company time, a DUI charge on your record may keep them from hiring you. This is mainly because they may not be able to afford the more expensive insurance required to cover you, even if you don’t make any other mistakes.
- Clean record: Aiming for some jobs requires a clean driving record to attain a level of success. These sorts of jobs may include working for the military, for the government, with children, or with confidential data.
- Good judgment: While you may generally have excellent judgment, a DUI charge may cause some hiring managers to misjudge your character. They may view you as likely to engage in reckless behavior or as having poor judgment.
In addition to having a hard time getting a new job, you may also have difficulty keeping your present position. The following are some factors that may affect your ability to maintain your current work situation:
- Long commute: Getting to work takes time out of your day, and driving is one of the best ways to shorten your commute. If you’re unable to drive because your license is suspended, you may need to spend time finding a ride or using public transportation. If these alternatives don’t work, you may have to take time off work.
- Time attending to the case: Your charge may also force you to take time away from work. This is because you may need to meet with your lawyer, attend hearings during negotiations or trials, take required classes, or receive treatments.
However, there are a couple of steps you can take to improve your chances of building out the career you want to have long term.
What to Do After a Louisiana DUI Charge
After you’ve been charged with a DUI in Louisiana, it’s essential to follow some key steps.
Follow Court Requirements
If the court has required you to appear for hearings, file certain documents or pieces of evidence, or be present in specific locations, listen to them. To avoid further charges or accrue a more significant sentence, listen to what the court has ordered you to do.
In cases where you aren’t able to be present for one reason or another, it would be wise to communicate that you won’t be available. If you’re asked for a reason, oblige the person asking with relevant information.
Talk to a Louisiana Criminal Defense Lawyer
It would also be wise to bring your case to a criminal defense lawyer. This is because an educated lawyer may be able to provide you with defenses for your case, reduce your sentence, and tell you the best course of action to get your life back on track. It’s not advisable to represent yourself in a criminal case.
Avoid Talking About Your Case, On and Offline
With the exception of your lawyer, you may not want to talk about your case with anyone. Avoid posting on social media or forums, and try not to tell anyone about your case if possible. This allows your lawyer to maximize your chances of smaller sentences or repercussions and get your life where you want it to be.
Get Help From Qualified Louisiana Criminal Defense Lawyers at the John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm
If you need help defending yourself after receiving a DUI charge, contact the team at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm. At our firm, Eric G. Johnson leads our group of educated and well-equipped attorneys so we can support and defend those who need us. We may be able to offer critical assistance for your case.
Do you need help with your DUI charge or figuring out your next steps? We never advise representing yourself in your own case, and it’s highly recommended you hire a lawyer to help you. Allow us to lead the way on your case. You can reach us by calling (318) 377-1555 or by filling out our contact form.