Getting a DUI can be extremely embarrassing whereas most people want to move on after such an unpleasant experience. However, you might be wondering whether your DUI will end up impacting your professional life. One thing that might cross your mind, and could cause you to lose sleep, is whether you have to tell your employer about your DUI. The answer is that it depends. There are certain situations where you might have to tell your employer, but in many cases, disclosing this information is not required.
When would I have to tell my employer about my DUI?
If you signed a contract with your current employer, take a look at it. Does it state that you have to disclose anything like a DUI, arrest, or conviction? If the contract requires your disclosure under the circumstances, then you should abide by its terms. Remember though, that if you are required to inform your employer of a conviction, and you were arrested, but not convicted, then disclosure would not be necessary. If you fail to notify your employer despite a contractual obligation to do so, you will be considered in breach of your employment contract. This could cause you to lose your job.
Another scenario when you might have to disclose your DUI is if your job includes driving. For one thing, there is a greater chance that your contract will require you to have a clean driving record if you are responsible for driving as part of your job. It is also possible though that your DUI will impact your ability to drive, and that as a result, it will impact your ability to do your job. In this case, failing to notify your employer might not be an option. Additionally, if you have a DUI, and you cause an accident while driving for work, your employer could find themselves liable for having you drive when you have a DUI.
Without some specific reason to notify your employer, there is no universal rule that your employer must be notified of your DUI.
What about applying for new jobs?
When applying for a new job, you might be asked questions regarding whether you have ever been convicted of a crime. In these situations, the wording of the job application is very important. Sometimes you will not have to disclose any convictions unless you were convicted of a felony. If this is the case, then if you were arrested and not convicted, or if you were convicted of a misdemeanor, then you would not have to disclose anything. It is important to fully understand what is being asked.
If you were arrested for a DUI, it is important to find an experienced attorney to represent you. You will likely have plenty of questions regarding how the DUI will impact your life, and an attorney will be able to help you understand how to handle these situations so that you are not in violation of any laws or agreements to which you are subject. Contact us at 864-982-5930 today to learn more about how we can make a difference for you.
