When you received a promotion at work, you celebrated with friends at the neighborhood bar, then began the drive home.
On the way, law enforcement stopped you on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. This is a first for you. How will a DUI conviction affect your future as well as that promotion?
Facing penalties
With a DUI charge may come a driver’s license suspension. You may also face fines and in certain instances, you could also face jail time. Keep in mind that during an investigation, a thorough examination will cover every aspect of your arrest from the blood alcohol content testing procedures to possible administrative errors.
Understanding consequences
A DUI conviction will follow you and cause roadblocks involving your future. For example, your employer may reconsider giving you that promotion. When you go job hunting, the DUI may cause a recruiter to pass you over in favor of an applicant with a clean record. Your insurance agency might see you as a high-risk driver and either cancel your auto insurance policy or issue a new one at an extremely high rate.
Participating in ARD
The best outcome for your case will result from a successful defense strategy. One option that might be open to you is participation in the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition or ARD program. Usually, first-time offenders who do not have a criminal history can qualify. If you complete the program and fulfill all the requirements, the court may dismiss your case. The court would also expunge the DUI conviction from your record, leaving you free to enjoy your promotion and continue with your plans for the future.
