Being found guilty of a DUI is detrimental in almost every aspect. Not only are the repercussions imposed by the criminal justice system harsh, but the impact of the crime will extend outside of the legal system and into your everyday life. Many people believe that after they handle their business in court, pay their fines, and do their time in jail, they'll be able to put this unpleasant experience behind them. But that isn't always the case. Stigmatized crimes like DUIs will likely have long-standing consequences that will haunt you forever.
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, it's important you know what you're up against. A conviction for this crime will bring about consequences that you won't be able to avoid, so it's important that you make wise decisions now. In this article, we will reference the effects of a DUI conviction in both the criminal justice system and in a person's everyday life. Hopefully, insight into what could potentially occur will compel you to seek legal counsel to defend your criminal charges.
Legal Penalties
When motorists are charged with a DUI, the first repercussions they think of are those carried out by the criminal justice system. It's no secret that a conviction will likely lead to harsh penalties in Pennsylvania, as the state has mandatory minimums that require the suspension of a license, costly fines, and even jail time for first offenders. In some cases, the court may order the installation of an ignition interlock device, which is a mechanism that won't allow a vehicle to start unless a breathalyzer test has been completed.
A Criminal Record
However, once you've satisfied every court order, and are officially out of the bind of the criminal justice system, you will still have to pay a price. Unfortunately, the creation of a criminal record (if it's your first offense) or adding another conviction to your criminal record can ruin many opportunities for you.
Issues with employment
A criminal record is public record and is accessible to anyone with internet access. This means that it will indefinitely pop up when employers run background checks. These days, it is routine for an employer to conduct background checks for potential hires. If an employer sees that you have a DUI conviction, they may be reluctant to hire you. Even if you already have a job, a DUI conviction can cause your current employer to lose trust in you, or deem you irresponsible.
College
College students may also feel the ramifications in the aftermath of a conviction. Once a college receives word of a DUI conviction, a student may be subjected to a school suspension, or have their scholarship or financial aid withdrawn. You will also not be able to receive student loans.
For students who wish to pursue their education after a conviction, it will be difficult to get into a school of your choice. Schools are also less likely to admit students with a DUI conviction on their record.
Insurance
People convicted of a DUI will see a significant increase in their monthly insurance rates. In some cases, an insurance company may perceive you as a liability and drop you from their company altogether.
Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, you still have time to avoid a conviction. Make the most of your constitutional rights and retain an attorney to represent you. Contact our skilled Criminal Law Team for help.
