Do I Have to Tell My Boss About My DUI?
Getting arrested for driving under the influence comes with a long list of consequences, and many people arrested for DUI in Southern California find that their employment is at risk. This leaves many people wondering if they have to tell their boss about a DUI, whether it’s just an arrest or has already progressed to a conviction. At The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates, we can help you understand your obligations and your legal options. Call us at 562-216-2944 to set up a consultation with our DUI defense lawyers now.
When you’re facing DUI charges, immediate action is crucial. A DUI conviction can derail your dreams and leave you with serious financial struggles. When you choose the team at The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates, know that our DUI defense attorneys will fight aggressively to defend your rights and explore your legal options. Our team of attorneys and investigators has handled a wide range of complex DUI cases, giving us the skills and knowledge needed to support you during this difficult time.
Legal Obligations Regarding Disclosure
In general, your employer won’t be automatically notified of a DUI arrest or conviction. There may be exceptions; for example, those who work in law enforcement often find out that their employer is aware of their criminal charges before they even have a chance to notify them. However, even if your employer doesn’t find out about your DUI on their own, you may still be obligated to tell them.
First, you should look at your employee handbook. If you signed a contract or any sort of agreement requiring you to notify your employer of pending criminal charges or arrests, you may be terminated if you fail to do so.
There are also many career paths that are licensed and heavily regulated in California. If you work in one of these fields, you may be legally obligated to tell both your employer and your licensing board of your arrest. This is information that should be available on your licensing board’s website—it’s important to look this up as soon as possible after an arrest, because failing to notify your licensing board in a timely manner could put you in violation of your licensing requirements. This could lead to fines, license suspension, or more serious actions.
Furthermore, if your job requires driving at all—for example, truck drivers, delivery drivers, sales personnel who go to multiple job sites—you do need to notify your employer immediately. Your license is almost certainly suspended, and driving on a suspended license could land you in significantly more trouble legally and at work.
The Practicality of Telling Your Boss
Even if you aren’t legally required to tell your boss, you may find that it’s easier to do so. For example, if you have to meet regularly with a DUI defense lawyer, you may find that it’s easier to come clean with your boss and tell them why you need frequent time off versus trying to hide it from them. The same is true if you end up in jail for several days until you can post bail; notifying your employer of your legal troubles may at least allow you to save your job, rather than letting them think that you’ve quit without notice.
This largely comes down to the culture at your workplace. Some places of employment are more accepting of employees in tough situations, while others are likely to let you go the moment you face any legal difficulties. As long as you aren’t required by contract or by law to tell your employer, you can choose which path best suits you.
Handling Your Legal Issues Carefully
There are ways to protect yourself from the worst consequences of a DUI. If you avoid conviction via a plea deal or a strong defense case, for example, you may be able to keep the record of your matter entirely with the help of a DUI defense law firm. Even if you are convicted, an expungement may be an option down the road once you have finished your jail time or probation.
Take the First Step With Our Team of DUI Defense Attorneys
It’s crucial to make the most of your time after an arrest. Our truck accident lawyers or DUI defense law firm can help you fight for your rights and choose the right path forward. Call us at 562-216-2944 or send us a message online to set up a free consultation immediately.
Attorney Robin D. Perry has been part of the Long Beach Community for over 25 years handling business litigation, employment litigation and advising, criminal defense, personal injury and code enforcement defense for businesses.
