The Effect of a DUI on Your Job

Kansas, along with most other states in the U.S., have strict rules and regulations regarding the penalties for DUI (driving under the influence). The punishment for this crime is often harsh, even for first-time offenders. It typically includes things like large fines, license suspension, and a criminal conviction that will remain on your record for several years. If you are caught offending for a second or third time, you may face long-term license suspension, time in jail, or both.

Effect of a DUI Conviction When Searching for a Job

According to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 employers are not allowed to discriminate against an employee or an applicate with a criminal record unless there is a compelling reason to do so.

Kansas is among several states that have laws requiring an employer to prove the relevance of the conviction a person has to the employee when they refuse to hire a person convicted of a criminal offense. This applies to both private and government jobs.

However, there are some employers who don’t hire these people because they believe a DUI may mean they are addicted to alcohol or that they have bad character. The employer may also assume they will be regularly absent or tardy from work, or work while drinking or under the influence.

The Affect of DUI Convictions on Current Employees

If you have a job, a DUI conviction may have a negative effect on your current employment status. The consequences are going to depend on the seriousness of the conviction and the nature of your job. In many cases, if you are sentenced to any amount of jail time, you will probably lose your job.

However, if you are in a situation where it is a first-time offense and it only resulted in minor penalties and a fine, and if the conviction doesn’t impact the ability you have to handle your work-related tasks, you may have an employer who is willing to be lenient. But there are employers who are harsher about DUI convictions, which means you may be put on probation or terminated.

Some of the professionals where a DUI conviction can have serious consequences include:

• Healthcare providers
• At-will employment
• Professional drivers
• Military personnel or active-duty service people
• Law enforcement authorities
• Teachers
• Real estate and insurance industries

For anyone in the above professionals, DUI convictions may be seen as compromising to the responsibilities and the integrity of their position. As a result, it may be considered a violation of the terms of their service or employment.

If you are facing a DUI charge and are worried about how it may affect your current or future employment opportunities, one of the best things you can do is to hire an experienced and reputable attorney. Contact Kitchin Law Firm today. We can build a defense for your case and help you avoid some of the more serious consequences. You don’t have to go through this alone, so hiring an attorney is a smart move.