A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) in California can impact your ability to get a job in some careers. You can use this article to find out if you can work in law enforcement with a DUI conviction.
Review the legal impacts of a DUI conviction with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. Protect your future career options by calling us at (310) 896-2723 immediately after an arrest to start building your defense.
Criminal Convictions and a Career in Law Enforcement
You should be aware that it will be more difficult to secure work as a law enforcement officer if you are convicted of any crime, including a DUI. However, you may be able to get the job you want if you were convicted of a misdemeanor. Felony convictions generally prevent you from working in law enforcement.
Note that California does not have state-wide regulations on hiring procedures for law enforcement agencies. Instead, regulations vary around the state. You should look into the hiring practices for the law enforcement agency you are interested in working for before you do anything else.
Many law enforcement agencies list out disqualifying offenses for new hires. If the agency lists DUI charges, you will not be able to work for them following a conviction.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Alcohol-Related DUIs and Law Enforcement Careers
Some law enforcement agencies will hire individuals previously convicted of a DUI. You are more likely to be able to work in law enforcement if you were convicted of an alcohol-related DUI. However, many law enforcement agencies will only hire you if your DUI occurred several years ago.
If you apply to work in law enforcement with an alcohol-related DUI conviction, you should be prepared to answer a number of questions about your charges. The agency may decide whether or not to hire you based upon whether or not:
- You have multiple DUI offenses
- You caused a DUI accident
- You caused property damage
- You hurt someone
Additionally, alcohol-related DUI charges often raise concerns about alcohol addiction.
Drug-Related DUIs and Law Enforcement Careers
Drug-related DUIs are often treated more severely by law enforcement agencies in California. Many agencies will immediately disqualify applicants if they were convicted of a DUI for the use of:
- Heroin
- LSD
- Pharmaceutical drugs
Even a marijuana-related DUI can reduce your odds of getting a career in law enforcement. Charges for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) can have other serious impacts on your life. Find out more about how to handle these charges by calling (310) 896-2723 to speak to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
Increasing Your Odds of Working in Law Enforcement with a DUI
You may be able to increase the odds that you will be hired by a law enforcement agency if you take certain steps. It is important that you show that you have grown as a person since your DUI conviction. Agencies may be more likely to hire you if:
- You only have one conviction on your record
- Your conviction occurred a long time ago
- You participate in community service activities
- You sought help with alcohol treatment
Showing that you took your DUI charge seriously and worked to improve yourself can help you get a career in law enforcement. Note that attempting to conceal your DUI conviction will generally work against you.
Law enforcement agencies thoroughly check the background of applicants. If the agency finds out that you lied about your criminal record, you will likely be denied employment automatically.
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Legally Handling DUI Charges to Work in Law Enforcement
Some individuals wonder if they can increase their odds of working in law enforcement by getting their DUI charges expunged. Expungement is not usually helpful when it comes to securing a career in law enforcement, as the agency will still be able to see that the charge occurred.
However, you may be able to resolve a DUI accusation before you are convicted by working with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. Getting a DUI charge reduced or dismissed can help you protect your career options. Resolving your DUI case in court can also help you work in law enforcement in the future.
A Lawyer Can Help Your Handle DUI Charges in California
You may be able to work in law enforcement in California with a DUI, but it won’t be easy to get the job that you want. You can improve your chances of securing the career of your dreams by handling DUI charges right away with the Simmrin Law Group. Allow us to assess your legal situation now with a FREE case evaluation.
Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are standing by to build your defense, just call (310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form