A DUI conviction can be life-changing in ways you might not expect. What might seem like a one-time mistake can have many long-lasting consequences.
One of the most common concerns is, “What does a DUI affect?” The truth is, a DUI conviction can not only tarnish your driving record. It can also lead to a full driver’s license suspension, steep fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and skyrocketing insurance premiums.
Certain professions, especially those that require a clean driving record or a professional license, may view a DUI conviction as a serious issue. Employers, insurers, and even professional licensing boards may view a DUI as a red flag, which can affect your career and future opportunities.
When you’re facing the potential consequences of a DUI conviction, it’s crucial to understand your options and take proactive steps to reduce the damage, if possible. At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, our DUI attorneys can help protect your rights and get the best possible outcome for you.
What Does a DUI Affect?
First and foremost, a DUI conviction will go on your criminal record, leaving a permanent mark that your employers, landlords, and licensing boards can access. What’s more, a DUI conviction isn’t easily expunged. This record can have far-reaching implications for your future, including:
- Driving Privileges: Your driver’s license may be suspended for months or even years, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it’s a first or repeat conviction.
- Finances: Beyond fines and court fees, a DUI can lead to increased insurance premiums, costly mandatory education programs, and even job loss or inability to secure certain types of employment.
- Social Standing: A DUI can damage your reputation in the community, especially in more tight-knit professional or social circles. You may also face strained relationships with family, friends, or employers.
Will a DUI Affect Employment?
A DUI conviction can have consequences in your current and future employment in the following ways:
1. Background Checks: Many employers run background checks on potential hires. A DUI on your record could cause employers to question your reliability or judgment, which may lead to lost job opportunities.
2. Professional Licenses: Certain industries, like healthcare, education, or transportation, have strict regulations around criminal records. A DUI could jeopardize your ability to obtain or renew professional licenses in these fields.
3. Job Retention: If you are already employed, your company may have policies regarding criminal conduct that could put your job at risk. Additionally, if driving is part of your job, a suspended license could make it impossible to fulfill your duties, leading to termination.
4. Career Advancement: A DUI can stunt career progression, particularly in fields that demand high moral or ethical standards. Employers may hesitate to promote someone with a DUI conviction, fearing it could damage the company’s reputation.
Insurance Consequences Following a DUI
Following a DUI conviction, you will almost certainly see a sharp increase in your insurance premiums. Insurance companies view drivers with a DUI on their record as high-risk. As a result, they adjust premiums accordingly to account for the increased likelihood of future incidents.
In some cases, your current insurer may choose to drop your coverage entirely after a DUI conviction. If the company considers you too risky, they may refuse to renew your policy. If this happens, you’ll be forced to find a new insurer.
While not all insurance companies will drop your coverage, the ones that continue to insure you may offer policies with strict limitations or exclusions. Even after you’ve served your legal penalties, paid fines, and completed any mandatory programs, the effect on your insurance can persist.
How We Can Help
Our DUI attorneys have helped countless clients just like you maneuver the complex legal system. Here’s how we can help with your DUI case:
1. Thorough Case Review and Investigation
We begin by examining every detail of your case. This includes reviewing breathalyzer or field sobriety test results, police reports, and any video footage or witness statements. We’ll also identify any mistakes made during your arrest that could be used to challenge the prosecution’s case.
2. Challenging Evidence
DUI cases often rely heavily on technical evidence. We will question the accuracy and reliability of these tests. If the evidence against you is flawed, we will work to get it thrown out.
3. Negotiating for Lesser Charges
Even if the evidence against you is strong, all hope isn’t lost. Our skilled attorneys can work to negotiate a plea deal, which may result in reduced fines or penalties, such as community service or alcohol education programs, instead of jail time.
4. Protecting Your Driving Privileges
If your DUI conviction is set to result in the suspension of your driver’s license, this can drastically impact your day-to-day life. We will try to prevent your DUI conviction leading to a driver’s license suspension by advocating on your behalf at administrative hearings. We will aim to retain your driving privileges or limit the suspension duration.
Contact our DUI Lawyers in South Carolina Today
A DUI conviction can feel like a weight that weighs you down, affecting not just your present life but also your future. The consequences of a DUI can impact everything from your ability to drive to your job prospects and even your insurance rates.
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we recognize the effect a DUI has and are here to help you every step of the way. Our DUI attorneys have years of experience fighting for people’s rights.
We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and advocate for you in every way necessary.
Contact us at 803-432-4391 to request a consultation with our DUI lawyers. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights and your future.