A driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge is a serious criminal matter. Anyone accused of drunk or drugged driving in New York could serve a jail sentence. They may be subject to significant financial penalties. They could also lose their driver’s license.
As if those penalties weren’t significant enough, the accused driver could also be at risk of professional consequences. Some employers have zero-tolerance policies for criminal convictions during employment. Other times, the loss of driving privileges could affect an individual’s ability to perform their job. In some cases, people accused of DWI offenses are at risk of losing their professional licensing as well.
Many careers require state licenses
People who want to work in the medical field generally need to pass state tests and maintain a professional license issued by a state board. Those who drive semi-trucks also need to obtain commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs).
There are dozens of careers that are subject to licensing requirements. State licensing boards typically look at criminal records when determining who qualifies for professional licenses. A criminal background check is also a standard procedure during the renewal process that occurs every few years.
A DWI conviction could potentially cost a professional their license. For those who drive commercial vehicles, a single DWI conviction is enough to make them ineligible for a CDL for a full year. Repeat offenses could make them permanently ineligible.
Even if a professional’s career has nothing to do with driving, a conviction associated with substance abuse could trigger disciplinary actions. The board that licenses their profession could suspend or revoke their professional license in light of a criminal conviction. They can also impose other penalties depending on the circumstances.
How can professionals protect their careers?
Getting arrested as a licensed professional is a major concern. Those who want to protect their careers and reputations often need to take assertive actions. Retaining the support of a criminal defense attorney as early as possible after an arrest can often help. A lawyer can help a professional put together a workable defense strategy.
With the right approach to handling the charges, it may be possible to avoid a conviction entirely. Even in cases where people cannot prevent criminal convictions, they may be able to completely sidestep the risk of professional discipline. In cases where convictions occur or professionals have already entered a guilty plea, a lawyer may be able to help them navigate the disciplinary hearings that they must attend.
A DWI arrest does not have to mean the beginning of the end for a licensed professional’s career. Keeping a focus on long-term goals, such as retaining professional licensing, can help those accused of DWIs make the right choices.