4 Ways a DUI Could Impact Your Life
Driving under the influence is a criminal offense that carries harsh penalties such as jail time, fines, and community service. However, the full ramifications of a conviction aren’t counted in hours, days, or even months; some consequences could linger around for years or even decades to come. Whether it’s struggling to find work, apply for loans, or renting an apartment, a DUI could haunt you for the rest of your life.
Fortunately, it is possible to fight your charges and—in some cases—have your license restored and the case against you dismissed. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the consequences of a DUI conviction in Florida and how an attorney could help protect your rights.
1. You Might Struggle to Find Work
Before hiring a new employee, businesses will often run background checks on candidates. As such, they may discover that you were convicted for driving under the influence, a red flag for many employers—especially in industries such as trucking, teaching, and healthcare.
If you currently have a job, you aren’t exactly safe. Florida is an at-will employment state, so employers can fire anyone at any point for almost any reason. While it’s illegal to terminate someone on the basis of religion, race, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, and political affiliation; businesses can—and sometimes do—terminate employees for having DUI arrests or convictions on their criminal records.
2. You May Not Be Able to Rent an Apartment
Landlords want to find trustworthy tenants who will pay their rent on time and take care of their properties. As such, it’s not uncommon for landlords to run background checks on new applicants. If these searches turn up a DUI conviction, your application may be rejected.
3. You Will Be Unable to Drive
Whether it’s running errands, dropping the kids off at school, or driving to work, having a car is practically mandatory in most parts of the country. However, after a DUI conviction, you probably won’t be allowed to drive for a significant amount of time. Based on the nature of your offense, your license could be suspended for several years, leaving you with no other option than to walk, carpool, or make use of public transport.
4. You May Pay More for Car Insurance
Florida’s laws require those convicted of a DUI to carry certain minimum coverage for up to three years after the conviction. This insurance tends to cost substantially more than the typical minimum coverage, potentially adding hundreds of dollars to your annual expenses. In addition to fines, court fees, and other associated expenses, a DUI can be a considerable financial burden.
Speak to a DUI Defense Attorney in Port St. Lucie, FL
A DUI conviction is a black mark on your permanent criminal record, affecting many different aspects of your life. However, just because you’ve been arrested doesn’t mean you will be convicted.
Todd. A Kawecki has handled hundreds of DUI cases and can tap into his extensive experience to help you get the best possible result in your case. To schedule a free case review, head over to our Contact Page or reach out to us directly at 772-485-4500.