The Long-Term Impact of a Felony DUI Conviction
August 8, 2024It is estimated that each year, over 100,000 drivers are arrested for a DUI. Under the California Vehicle Code §23550 VC, a DUI is considered a felony if the motorist has four DUI convictions in a ten-year period, among other circumstances.
If you have committed a felony DUI, you may be facing severe penalties, including incarceration, fines, and even losing your driving privileges, to name a few. This is nothing compared to the long-term ramifications of a felony DUI conviction, which impedes a person’s ability to live a normal life.
Our Ventura DUI defense lawyers would like to discuss the long-term impact of a felony DUI conviction in the Golden State.
Driving Privileges
If you have been found guilty of a felony DUI, your license may be suspended for four years or revoked altogether. Not being able to drive will limit your employment opportunities and also make it difficult for you to transport your kids to school and any extracurricular activities.
Employment
When applying for a job, an employer will probably conduct a background check. Many employers are wary about hiring a person with a DUI conviction, causing a problem when searching for employment opportunities.
Housing
Landlords often conduct background checks on potential tenants. If they see that you have a DUI conviction, they may be hesitant to rent to you. Although a landlord is allowed to reject your application due to a past transgression, this only applies in limited situations.
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act, an employer can only deny a potential tenant housing for a criminal conviction regarding a “directly related conviction.” This pertains to any conviction that would bear a negative and substantial impact on the safety of the residents, to the landlord’s employees, or to the property itself.
However, the reason for denial must be nondiscriminatory in nature. If you believe that the landlord’s reason was not legitimate or that you are being discriminated against for any reason, then you need to acquire legal counsel.
Professional Licensure
Whether you want to be a police officer, lawyer, or commercial truck driver, you will be required to get a license from the state. A DUI conviction could impede your ability to obtain licensure and even result in disciplinary proceedings regarding your current license.
Insurance Rates
A felony DUI conviction can cause your insurance rates to skyrocket and, in some situations, cause your auto insurer to cancel your policy. DUI convictions in the past decade will be considered when calculating insurance premiums, meaning the hit to your bank account will be long-term as well.
Personal Relationships
A DUI conviction can cause a strain on relationships with family, friends, and even romantic partners. People may not want to associate with you after learning that you were charged or convicted of a DUI.
A Ventura DUI Defense Lawyer Offering Tenacious Representation
The best step you can take when facing DUI charges is to speak with our Ventura DUI defense lawyers. Our legal team will craft a defense tailored to your specific needs, helping you avoid incarceration, fines, and other severe penalties. To learn more, contact us by phone or online to schedule your complimentary consultation.