DUI & Employment: Getting a Job After a DUI Conviction

Mistakes happen. A momentary lapse in judgement can follow you for a long time. Unfortunately, this is true for DUI charges. If you are convicted of driving under the influence, it will appear on your driving record. This can affect your future employment prospects because employers generally ask you to report criminal charges against you. However, this does not mean the end of the world. You can still find a job with a DUI conviction.

Employment Opportunities After a DUI Conviction

Depending on the profession, a DUI conviction will make it extremely difficult to land a job in that field. For example, employment that requires an individual to drive, use a company car, or work with children will most likely not hire someone with a DUI conviction. This makes obtaining a teaching job almost impossible. In other instances, employers may glance over the DUI charge.

Usually, job applications have a designated section that asks if you have any criminal charges or the employer will conduct a background check. There are things you can do to brighten your employment opportunities.

Tips on Obtaining a Job After a DUI Conviction

  • Clearing your DUI charge – In California, if you’re eligible, you can have your records expunged. This means the DUI conviction will be sealed, thus virtually erasing it from the public. However, felonies cannot be cleared. Speak with a DUI lawyer about your options.
  • Be honest and confident – If you can’t have your DUI conviction expunged, be honest about it with your employers. While you do not have to divulge the information willingly, some employers will ask. If they do, own up to your mistake and highlight your other assets. Try to divert the attention on the positive, rather than allowing the interviewer focus on the charge.
  • Strengthen your skills and resume – While you may not be able to get rid of your DUI charge, you can spend time focusing on building and improving your skill set. Further your education in your field of interest. This will make you a better candidate and can improve your chances as landing the job.

At Chung & Ignacio, we don’t think one mistake should taint your professional character. If you were charged with a DUI, contact our Rancho Cucamonga DUI attorneys today. We will review your case and help strategize the best plan for you. Can you afford not to call?

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