Can I Get a Job if I Have a DWI?
Are you wondering, can I get a job if I have a DWI? This post will walk you through everything you need to know.
DWI Charges Can Be Quite Common
Many people have been arrested for driving under the influence. We are not saying that you should drive under the influence. However, there are more jobs available today than ever before that are okay with a DWI on your record. With that said, you may still run into problems at certain jobs.
Plus, while some jobs will accept people who have a DWI on their record, there are still other problems that you may face that will last a lifetime. You may have emotional issues and repercussions such as losing your license. So even though a job may allow you to work for them with a DWI on your record, you may have trouble getting to work without a license.
Places Where Employment Can Be Turned Down For a DWI
As stated, many places can offer you employment with a DWI. However, there are certain jobs and industries that a DWI conviction can hinder your employment search.
These jobs that you may want to stay away from are the following:
Anything that involves operating heavy machinery or equipment.
Any job that involves driving or delivering.
Law enforcement jobs.
Jobs that require you to care for children or other vulnerable people.
Education jobs may not accept you if you have a DWI.
Healthcare industries may not accept you if you have a criminal record. This includes doctors, nurses, and other positions.
Any government position will likely deny you employment due to your record.
You Can Take The Chance And Apply Wherever You Want
While these types of work may allow you to apply, they are going to look at people who do not have a DWI on their record before your application. They are likely to go with applicants who have a clean record over your application.
How To Keep A DWI/DUI From Affecting Your Employment
Keep in mind that just because you have a DWI on your record, does not mean that you cannot be employed. It can just make your job search harder. We are going to talk about how to ease that job search.
PRO TIP: If you are student with a DWI, you should consider hiring a law firm to handle your DWI case. Doing so will help you out in the longterm.
Avoid the Conviction
In many states there are programs for first-time offenders. This course can allow certain individuals to avoid having a DWI on their record. For this to happen, you would need to go to court and suggest it. If the judge agrees, you will be sentenced to complete the program. These programs often test for drugs and alcohol regularly. You also will have to complete a safety course or education course about the substance. If you complete this program, you are going to avoid having a DWI on your record.
Cleaning Your Record
In some states you can get your record expunged. However, the requirements for expungement are different from state to state. If you were to obtain an expungement grant, you will be able to tell employers that you do not have a DWI on your record.
Hardship/Restricted Licenses
There are some options for those who do not want to lose their license but have been charged with a DWI. These are licenses that allow you to drive for certain periods of time. This means that you could use your license to go to and from work.
Keep in mind that if you used to do commercial driving, you are likely not going to get that license back. If you are eligible for driving, you may need an IID. This is a device that is installed into the vehicle and is known as an ignition interlock device. This device is a breathalyzer that is installed into the car. The driver must use it to start the car and intermittently throughout their drive to keep the car running. If the operator of the vehicle does this test and has alcohol in their breath, the car or vehicle will not start.
Wrapping Up: Can I Get A Job If I Have A DWI
If you have a DWI on your record, you can still get a job. However, if you meet the requirements for expungement, you may want to do that to better your odds during your job search. Speaking with a Louisiana criminal lawyer like Barkemeyer Law Firm will help you better understand your options and what steps are needed to obtain your goal. If you are not sure where to start looking or what to do, contact a Louisiana criminal lawyer for help today! You can also schedule a no-obligation consultation.
