Even with California’s “ban the box” law, having a DUI conviction can make it harder to find a job.
California takes the crime of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (DUI) seriously. Anyone convicted of a DUI — even for a first-time offense — may be sent to jail, required to pay substantial fines and fees, and lose their license for an extended period of time. Perhaps more importantly, getting a DUI can also have consequences beyond what the court orders. This includes an impact on your ability to get a job.
As a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, CA can explain, a DUI is a criminal conviction. That means that it will show up on your criminal history, regardless of whether it is a misdemeanor or felony offense. Having a DUI on your record can make it harder to find a job.
In 2018, California’s “ban the box” law took effect. This law forbids companies from putting a question on job applications that asks if the applicant has ever been convicted of a felony. The purpose of this law is to encourage employers to focus on the qualifications of an individual applicant, rather than to immediately put their application aside because of a criminal record. In this way, people with prior convictions can move forward with their lives and get a fresh start.
While this law can help people with a DUI conviction get past the initial stages of the job application process, it doesn’t mean that a potential employer cannot consider it later. Although employers cannot ask about a criminal record in a job application, they can consider it when deciding whether or not to hire you.
In many cases, having a DUI conviction won’t matter to an employer. For example, if you are applying for a job at a supermarket, then the company might not care that you have a prior DUI conviction. However, other employers will be more sensitive to this offense, such as companies and organizations that work with children or positions that require you to drive.
Because a DUI conviction can have a long-lasting effect on your life, it is critical to work with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, CA if you have been charged with this offense. Your attorney can thoroughly investigate the case against you and put together a strong factual and legal defense to the charges. Depending on the facts of your case, your lawyer may be able to have the charge reduced to wet reckless, or even dismissed entirely.
At the Chambers Law Firm, our team of legal professionals has substantial experience representing clients who have been charged with California DUIs. We aggressively advocate for each of our clients to help them achieve the best possible result for their case. To learn more or to schedule a free initial consultation with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com.
