Can you get a government job with a DUI on your record in California? Getting any job after being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) can be difficult. Some employers attempt to avoid hiring individuals with a DUI conviction, especially if the driver faced charges for a felony.
However, the government does hire some individuals with DUI convictions in California. Generally, you can only secure a government job after a misdemeanor DUI conviction.
Review other impacts of DUI convictions with the Simmrin Law Group. We can help you defend yourself from criminal DUI charges.
Getting a Government Job With a Criminal Record
So, can you get a government job with a DUI? The federal government does not deny employment to all individuals with a criminal record, meaning that, technically, you may be able to get a government job with a DUI.
However, a felony conviction could prevent you from working for the government, and the court treats some DUIs as felonies in California.
Drivers with a misdemeanor conviction may be able to work for the government, but it will likely be more challenging to get a job with a prior DUI conviction.
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What DUI Charges Count as Felonies in California?
The court only treats some DUIs as felony-level offenses. For the most part, you face misdemeanor charges after an arrest for drinking and driving. However, you could face felony DUI charges if you:
- Have three previous misdemeanor DUI convictions
- Have one prior felony DUI conviction
- Hurt or killed someone in a DUI accident
A conviction for any of these charges can prevent you from securing a job with either the state or federal government. You can discuss these accusations with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer to learn more about the specifics of the charges.
How the Government Finds Out About DUI Charges in California
Can you get a state job with a DUI in California? In most cases, the government forbids employers in California from asking about your criminal background on your initial application. However, after a conditional offer of employment has been made, any past convictions will come up.
Your employer may ask you to self-report any previous criminal conviction, and you should not lie if asked about your criminal history. Potential employers can conduct a background check. They may automatically deny your employment if they discover that you lied about previous convictions.
Review the best ways to report a past DUI conviction by speaking to a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer before applying. Call us to focus on handling DUI charges in California.
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You Can Still Get a Government Job With a DUI
Even if you have a DUI, you may still be able to secure a government job if you can demonstrate that you are the best applicant for the position. In many cases, your potential employer will be interested in assessing how you have changed since a DUI conviction.
You may expect to answer many questions about a past DUI charge before you get hired for a government position. Employers will focus on the impact of your criminal background on core job duties and interests of national security. Your odds of getting a job often depend on:
- The circumstances and severity of your DUI charges
- The amount of time since your DUI conviction
- The efforts you’ve made to seek rehabilitation
You could increase your odds of getting a government job after a DUI by completing an alcohol-treatment program or performing community service.
Fully adhering to any penalties set forth by the court system can also increase your chances of securing a government job with a past DUI. You can discuss additional strategies with a DUI lawyer dedicated to assisting with your situation.
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Expunging a DUI Charge for a Government Job
In some cases, you can get your DUI conviction expunged in the state of California. A DUI lawyer can help you get your DUI removed from your criminal record in some circumstances. Your lawyer can petition the court for an expungement if:
- You never went to prison for a DUI
- The court accused you of no other criminal acts
- You served all penalties from your conviction
Employers will not be able to see a DUI conviction if you secure an expungement. In some situations, this can help you secure the career you want.
However, keep in mind that expunging a DUI conviction does not entirely remove the penalties handed down by the court. For example, even after an expungement:
Your License Restrictions Remain
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) maintains any restrictions on your license after an expungement. Depending on your case, you may still have a suspended license or have to continue using an ignition interlock device (IID).
If you have to drive for the government job you want, securing employment could be more challenging.
The DUI Remains Priorable
California treats DUIs as priorable offenses, meaning that each subsequent conviction within a certain period comes with harsher penalties. All charges remain priorable after an expungement.
Facing DUI Charges Before a Conviction
You will be more likely to get a government job if you avoid a conviction for a DUI in California. Many people apply for government work, and preference can be given to individuals without DUI convictions, especially if the job involves driving.
Additionally, DUI convictions have other repercussions. A conviction could lead to fines, jail time, and the loss of your driving privileges.
Therefore, it’s often in your best interest to resolve a DUI charge before you are convicted. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can work to get your charges dismissed or resolved successfully in court.
A DUI defense lawyer will review your case and advise you about all your legal options. Depending on the facts of your case, a lawyer may argue that:
- You were not impaired while operating your vehicle
- The police stopped you without just cause
- The police failed to follow proper procedures when conducting a blood alcohol content (BAC) test
A DUI defense lawyer can also help if you face felony charges and want to negotiate for a reduced sentence. This reduction could include lowering the charge to a misdemeanor.
Generally, reducing a charge to a misdemeanor requires you to accept a plea bargain from the prosecution. These deals require you to plead guilty to a less serious charge in exchange for reduced penalties. Your lawyer can assess any plea deal to ensure it works for you.
Resolve DUI Charges to Get a Government Job
You may be able to get a government job with a DUI conviction, but it can be more difficult. Focus on keeping your record clear by working with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles today. Contact the Simmrin Law Group for help building a DUI defense with a FREE initial case evaluation.
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