How a DWI can cause workplace problems

When an employee has been with the same company for a long time, he or she often enjoys benefits at work that newer employees might not have. However, encountering legal problems in one’s personal life, such as facing DWI charges in a North Carolina court, may not only place workplace benefits at risk, it can damage a person’s entire career. This is one of many reasons it pays to seek experienced criminal defense support to help mitigate such circumstances as much as possible.

Facing DWI charges is undoubtedly a stressful experience. It can affect a marriage or family life, as well as present and future employment. A boss may not be as understanding as one might hope if a worker has to keep calling off in order to attend court hearings. If the court hands down a conviction, a worker’s employer might decide it is best to terminate his or her employment, no matter how long he or she has been with the company.

In fact, merely facing charges, regardless whether a case goes to trial or a conviction is rendered, can have a negative impact on a person’s career. A good reputation is important in many industries. If work gets out that an employee was taken into police custody on a drunk driving suspicion, it can have unfavorable consequences in the person’s private and professional life. Also, facing DWI charges often prompts a driver’s license suspension, which can cause great difficulties regarding transportation to and from the workplace.

Many North Carolina employers run background checks or internet searches when considering a prospective employee for hire. If a DWI conviction turns up on a person’s record, the employer may be hesitant to add him or her to the payroll. Facing criminal charges does not prevent an accused individual from taking steps to protect his or her rights. Whether it is a driver’s first DWI accusation or similar charges have been brought in the past, it is best to request experienced legal support to pursue the most favorable outcome possible under the circumstances.