Do I Have To Tell My Employer About A DUI?
If you have been charged with a DUI in Georgia, you likely have a lot of concerns running through your head, like what potential consequences you will be facing and how this will affect your life. It’s completely understandable to feel this way. A DUI is a serious charge that can impact many aspects of your life, including your employment or professional licensures. You may be unsure of what the best way to approach this is with your employer, and whether you even have to. When you apply for a job the company will generally ask if you have ever been charged with or convicted of a crime, and will usually complete a background check to verify this as well. However, if you are already working for a company, they may not have a mechanism to become aware of this information outside of you informing them. So what is your obligation to tell them? Well, that depends.
When Do You Need to Inform Your Employer About a DUI
There is no law that mandates that you inform your employer about a DUI or other criminal charge. However, you may be required to do so if it is the company’s policy. You can check the company handbook or inquire with the Human Resources Department at your office to determine what you are required to share. In some cases, you may only have to inform your employer of a conviction. However, if your job involves a heightened standard of care (such as a doctor or a pilot) or it requires driving, you will likely be required to inform them even if you are just facing charges. While you may be hesitant to do this, in many cases being proactive and coming to your employer first may actually save your job. Many companies have performance action plans for employees who struggle with substance abuse issues that allow them to continue working while complying with certain requirements, such as completing a substance abuse treatment program and taking regular drug or alcohol tests at work. Your employer may also put you on paid or unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of your trial, if having you continue to work may be too much of a liability. In some cases, transferring you to a less risky role, such as an administrative role, pending the outcome of the trial, may also be an option. You really will not know what options are available until you start looking.
Maximizing Your Chances of Keeping Your Job
Often, hiring an attorney to review the facts and circumstances of your case will be the first step toward getting your life back on track. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your lawyer may be able to get the charges against you dismissed. This is the case if the initial stop that resulted in your arrest was unconstitutional or lacked probable cause. Your lawyer also may be able to help you avoid a conviction by mounting a strong defense or negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecution that allows you to plead to a less serious charge.
Talk to Hawkins Spizman Trial Lawyers
If you are currently facing DUI charges in Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, or anywhere in Georgia, the experienced Georgia criminal defense lawyers at Hawkins Spizman Trial Lawyers are ready to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
