DUI and Your Future
Most people are familiar with the immediate penalties of a DUI, such as temporary driver’s license suspension, monetary fines, community service, and enrollment in a drunk driving education course. What you may not know, however, is that the negative influence of a DUI can reach far into your future.
If you have been arrested for a DUI, remember that you have a right to defense in a court of law. A good DUI defense lawyer can help you defend your rights and will aggressively fight the evidence brought against you.
Future Consequences of a DUI
Even after all of your fines are paid and your community service is completed, your DUI may still hinder potential opportunities. Here are some examples of how a DUI conviction can interfere with your life even years later:
- Finding and keeping a job. If you have a job that involves driving, such as truck driving, pizza delivery, catering, or taxi driving, you may be fired for getting a DUI. Many employers do not feel comfortable having drivers with DUI convictions. When you go to apply for a new job, even one not driving related, most job applications require you to list any past arrests, and having a criminal background could hurt your chances.
- Applying to schools and scholarships. If you plan to attend college, you will likely have to report your criminal history. Many schools and scholarship programs will not accept students with a criminal record.
- Paying for Insurance. A DUI raises your rates with insurance companies, and some of the major companies may drop your coverage altogether. You may have to accept insurance with a company that you are unfamiliar with and at higher rates than you would like.
Facing Your Family
Even if a DUI is the only crime you have ever been charged with, your family may become more watchful of your behavior and show increased concern that your DUI is a sign of a potentially bigger problem. You may feel frustrated, hurt, or ashamed if they show that they have less trust in you now, and you may have trouble talking to them about professional, financial, or personal problems related to your DUI.
If you are worried about facing serious future consequences as a result of your DUI, an experienced DUI defense lawyer can help. They can answer any questions you have about DUI defenses and will help to clarify the charges you face. If you choose to take action, a good DUI defense attorney can aggressively defend your case against overzealous prosecution and will fight to save your reputation and your future.
Contact Us
Remember that anyone convicted of a DUI has a right to their day in court, and you can start preparing your defense today. Contact aggressive, experienced Rhode Island DUI lawyer Matthew Marin at 401-287-4384 for more information and assistance with your case.
