We all make mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes can impact the rest of our lives. A silly mistake or a one-time occurrence could easily lead to losing your job. Sometimes, you could lose your job even if you don’t face a conviction or jail time, just because an incident occurred.
Could you lose your job over a DWI? This will ultimately depend on your employer. Hire a DWI defense lawyer right away, and familiarize yourself with these details.
Employer Rights
In most states, your employer has the right to fire you when you receive a legal conviction, including a DWI conviction. Employees receive a certain level of protection in the workplace, but the employers are also protected in some ways, and this is one of those ways.
When you receive a criminal conviction from a wrongdoing, such as a DWI, you are not protected from losing your job. That being said, in some cases, if you are not convicted of a criminal offense, you might be able to protect your job.
Here’s the thing. We can’t promise that you won’t get fired over a DWI conviction, but you may be able to fight it to some degree. If you can avoid a conviction, this might help your case. Some employers will even allow you a second chance. This will depend on the offense, as well as your employer.
Jobs Most at Risk with a DWI Conviction
The workplace and the employer policies are something you should be familiar with. Certain industries are far stricter about this type of conviction. For example, if a DWI on your record could mean you’re putting someone’s life at risk on the job, that might cost you.
Some employers care about the company’s reputation, and a DWI conviction might be against their policies for that reason. In those cases, you might not be allowed to hold certain positions because of the conviction.
Here are some industries that might be most at risk because of a DWI conviction:
- Driving jobs
- Machinery operation
- Daycare providers
- Teachers
- Therapists or counseling
- Vulnerable-adult positions (such as a nursing home)
- Financial jobs (insurance, banking, securities, etc.)
- Any job that utilizes a professional license
Protect Yourself When Facing DWI Charges
If you’re facing DWI charges and are concerned about the possibility of losing a professional license or your job, hire a DWI defense lawyer immediately. This is your best chance of being able to fight the charges and navigate the court systems for a better result.Â
In many professions, you are less likely to be fired if there is no criminal conviction. This means if you are able to get reduced charges, or even get the charges dismissed, you will be much better off.
But you shouldn’t go it alone. A defense lawyer will know your options and be able to walk you through every step of the legal process. Your future depends on it. Take action to protect yourself.
