Every day, 3,200 people are arrested for drunk driving.
Whether you’ve been arrested for the first time or the third time for a DWI, the consequences can be very serious.
On top of jail time, fines, and administrative consequences, getting a DWI can impact your every day life.
Do DWI convictions impact your ability to find a job? Let’s take a look at what you need to know.
Will DWI Convictions Show Up On a Background Check?
If a potential employer runs a criminal background check on you, DWI convictions you have had will show up. If the job you’re in the running for performs a motor vehicle record check (MVR) or a driving record check, a DWI conviction will also most likely show up there.
If you were arrested for a DWI but the court hasn’t issued a verdict yet, this can still show up on your background check. There are also some background check companies that will include DUI arrests even when they didn’t result in a conviction. This is only true, however, if the case’s filing date occurred in the last seven years.
DWIS & Hiring Considerations
There are some positions where it is illegal for applicants with a record of DWIs to fill the roll. If this isn’t the case, however, there are a number of things that the hiring manager would take into account.
One thing they’ll consider is whether the DWI conviction was classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. A first-time DWI conviction is considered a Class B misdemeanor and a second DWI conviction is a Class A midemeanor. A third DWI conviction, however, is considered a third-degree felony.
It’s also possible to receive a felony for a DUI offense that involved injury, death, or the presence of minor children in the vehicle.
Another thing the hirer can consider is the age of the offense. Different states have different laws regarding how far back background checks can go.
They also might consider any documented completion of rehab or remediation programs.
Another consideration is whether the company policy includes stipulations regarding filling specific positions with people with criminal records.
A hirer might also consider whether or not the job involves operating a vehicle or other equipment, or working with vulnerable people or children.
There are a number of federal and state laws that govern how a criminal record can impact the hiring process. For certain jobs, like driving a school bus or a tractor-trailer, there are regulations that forbid someone with a record of a DWI from filling the position. On the other hand, it can violate fair housing laws if an employer denies you a job simply because of a criminal conviction.
DWI Conviction in Texas: Find a Lawyer to Represent You
The pushishments for a DWI conviction can be quite severe, particularly when you have gotten more than one.
Are you look for an attorney to represent you against DWI convictions? Contact us today!