Can I Lose My Job After a DUI?

 Posted on January 15, 2018 in DUI

Common knowledge tells us that driving under the influence of alcohol endangers lives. However, drunk driving also has smaller potential repercussions. These consequences are not life-threatening, but they are life-altering and require heavy consideration before intentionally drinking and driving.

One question asked after a DUI arrest is if you will still have gainful employment if convicted. Can you lose your job because of a DUI?

Conviction is More Than a Fine and a Record

A DUI conviction frequently ends in more than a fine and a blemished driving record. Daily tasks such as going to work or grocery shopping become difficult to maneuver after licensure loss. Additionally, even an overnight stay in jail creates tension in social relationships. Insurance rates increase with a label of being a high driving risk. All of these repercussions exist without even discussing the impact on income.

Illinois is an Employment At Will State

Illinois, like many states, is an “employment at will” state—an employee or an employer can legally terminate employment at any time, for any reason, without notification. Whether your employer chooses to enact this right after DUI accusation depends heavily on the nature of the job, among other factors. What they cannot fire an employee for include, but are not limited to:

• Race,
• Color,
• Religion,
• Sex,
• National origin, and
• Ancestry.

Factors Influencing a Termination Decision

Various companies have a strict policy when it comes to convictions and require immediate notification of charges. If you lose your driver's license due to suspension or revocation, transportation becomes unreliable, periodically affecting arrival times. Driving jobs require specialized insurance, which may not cover those convicted of DUI, customarily concluding with a loss of a driving position. Additionally, if you have a professional license, such as a doctor or a lawyer, many agencies require immediate notification of charges and may terminate your license. Finally, court dates intermittently lead to missed work which also determines further employability.

Avoid Conviction

The best advice is to avoid drinking and driving. However, if you find yourself stopped after a couple of drinks, remain calm, roll down the windows before the officer approaches, and answer each question with short, polite answers. Next, contact your lawyer immediately.

The attorneys at Davi Law Group, LLC will aggressively negotiate on your behalf to ensure you retain your rights. Lessen the chance of a DUI conviction by contacting a knowledgeable and experienced DuPage County DUI attorney today. Call 630-580-6373 today to get started with your personalized consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf

https://www.illinois.gov/idol/FAQs/Pages/default.aspx#qst4