Is My Boss Going to Find Out I Got a DUI?
Feb. 14, 2024
Facing the aftermath of a DUI arrest can feel like an uphill battle. The fear, uncertainty, and embarrassment are all too real. We understand this because we've stood by many individuals who have found themselves in your shoes. You may be overwhelmed with questions, one of the most pressing ones being, "Will my boss find out?" Know that you are not alone, and it's okay to seek help.
We are Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, a law firm based in Rockville, Maryland, serving clients throughout Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Howard County, and Fredrick County. We've dedicated our practice to helping people navigate the complexities of DUI cases. Our team is committed to providing guidance, support, and aggressive representation to protect your rights.
Understanding DUI Basics
If you're arrested for a DUI in Maryland, you'll likely be taken into custody, have your driver's license confiscated, and be given a temporary paper license. You may also have to take a breathalyzer or chemical test to determine your BAC level. Refusing to take these tests can result in automatic penalties, such as a driver's license suspension.
Following your arrest, you may face a court hearing where the charges against you will be read, and you'll be asked to enter a plea. This process can be overwhelming, but our team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring that your rights are protected.
In some cases, it may be possible to have your DUI charges dropped or reduced in Maryland. This typically involves identifying and exploiting flaws in the prosecution's case, such as improper police procedures during your arrest or inaccuracies in blood or breath testing equipment.
The Consequences of a DUI
A DUI conviction carries serious consequences, both legally and personally. Penalties can vary depending on factors such as your BAC level, prior DUI convictions, and whether there were any aggravating circumstances like causing an accident or having a minor in the vehicle.
Common consequences include jail time, hefty fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and suspension or revocation of your driver's license.
The severity of these penalties can increase with subsequent DUI offenses or if aggravating factors are present, such as having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense.
Will My Employer Find Out?
In Maryland, court records are public records. This means that anyone, including your employer, can look them up. If your DUI case goes to trial, it becomes part of the court record, which is accessible to the public. Similarly, if you are convicted of a DUI, it will appear on your criminal record, which is also a public record. So, technically, your employer could find out about your DUI by accessing these records.
Your job responsibilities can also determine whether your employer will find out about your DUI charge. For instance, if your role requires driving, your employer may periodically run a motor vehicle report (MVR) on you. An MVR is a record of your driving history, including any DUI convictions. Therefore, a DUI charge could come to light during one of these checks.
Moreover, some companies have policies requiring employees to report any arrests or convictions. If your company has such a policy and you fail to report your DUI, it could lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment. It's always advisable to understand your company's policies and adhere strictly to them.
A trusted criminal defense can review your situation and advise you of your options.
Protecting Your Job
If you are worried about your employer finding out about your DUI, it's crucial to seek legal advice. Here are some steps you can take to protect your job:
Consult with a DUI attorney: We can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the legal system.
Understand company policies: Be aware of your company's policies regarding DUI arrests and reporting requirements.
Consider disclosure: Depending on your situation, it might be beneficial to have an open and honest conversation with your employer about your DUI arrest.
Seek treatment if necessary: If your DUI arrest was related to substance abuse issues, seeking treatment shows your commitment to addressing the problem.
Follow legal requirements: Comply with any court-ordered requirements, such as attending alcohol education programs or completing community service.
Discover Your Options
Facing a DUI arrest can be a daunting experience, especially when worrying about potential repercussions at your workplace. However, remember that you don't have to face this alone.
At Mohammadi & Humayun, LLC, we stand by you, providing the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. We're committed to helping our clients navigate DUI cases, protecting your rights, and working tirelessly towards the most favorable outcome for your situation. Reach out to us today, and let us help you through this difficult time.