DWI charges might not seem as serious as other criminal charges, but a drunk driving conviction can have lasting repercussions, and driving while intoxicated is never a good idea.
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 7,849 alcohol-related crashes reported in 2014, and 270 of those crashes resulted in fatalities. These sobering statistics illustrate why police are so intent on catching drunk drivers; however, that does not mean everyone they charge with DWI is convicted.
If you are facing charges for drinking and driving in New York, turn to Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law. Mr. DeUrso understands what’s at stake for his clients, and he gives every case the attention it deserves. Call 914-772-8614 to schedule an initial consultation with a White Plains criminal attorney.
Can a DWI Conviction Affect My Career?
If you require any kind of licensure or permit to perform your job duties, a DWI conviction can affect your employment. Industries that have licensing requirements include:
- Nursing and medicine;
- Dentistry;
- Pharmacy;
- Legal;
- Real Estate;
- Counseling;
- Education; and
If you are a college student or are just entering the workforce, a conviction could also affect your potential career, even if there are no licensing requirements.
If I Get a DWI Conviction, Do I Have to Tell My Current Employer?
If you receive a DWI conviction, you may be concerned about losing your current position. Talk to your attorney about your situation before revealing anything to your employer.
Your attorney will probably advise you to review your employment contract. In the contract, it may stipulate that an arrest is grounds for dismissal. It may also state that a conviction is grounds for immediate dismissal.
Unfortunately, even if there is no reference to criminal activity in the employment contract, your job may still be at risk. According to the New York State Office of the Attorney General, New York is typically an “at will” employment state, which means your employer can fire you at any time for essentially any reason—including a DWI conviction.
Do I Have to Reveal My DWI Conviction on Future Job Applications?
Every company has its own standards for job applicants. If you are unsure whether you have to reveal your conviction on an application, talk to your attorney.
If the application asks about any felony convictions and your DWI was a misdemeanor, you do not have to disclose it. If it asks about any criminal convictions in general, though, your attorney will advise you on the best way to proceed based on the circumstances of your particular case.
If you are facing DWI charges in New York, turn to Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law to discuss your situation with a criminal attorney. Call 914-772-8614 to schedule an initial consultation with a White Plains DWI lawyer. You can learn more about DWI laws by visiting http://dui-lawyers.usattorneys.com/.