Filling Out Job Applications After a DUI

There are various legal penalties that you will face following a DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated) conviction. These include fines, probation and/or jail time, license suspension, and so on. Yet even after the conviction, some people may have to deal with a stigma regarding their conviction. This is may be true with regard to your future employment since many employers do ask questions about your criminal record.

Our DUI attorneys have fielded a number of questions from people throughout the state regarding job applications and job interviews. We’d like to provide some straightforward advice about these matters so you ca proceed smartly in the future.

Considering the Job Application

On many job applications, you may notice a question about previous convictions. Sometimes the questions are more specific than others, though in general they will ask about any prior convictions or criminal offenses to which the applicant plead guilty.

Parse the Language of the Question

It’s important that you read the question on the application carefully so that you provide the exact information that is necessary. Sometimes the question will ask specifically for offenses or kinds of offenses other than a DUI /DWI conviction, so keep that and your own record in mind as you read and fill out the information.

Always Answer the Question Honestly

This is crucial and something that our DUI defense attorneys stress: always fill out your job application honestly. A DUI / DWI conviction is not the end of the world, especially if you’re trying to do right and move forward.

The vast majority of employers will run background checks to make sure that what you have filled out in your application is accurate. It is better to be honest than to risk being caught or considered deceitful as this can have serious repercussions.

Include Specific Information If Asked

If there is a space to include information on your conviction, be sure to mention it briefly but fully. Being upfront about the matter is better than being evasive.

Mention Positive Changes In the Application

This is something else that’s crucial that many people don’t consider. If there is a space to mention the DUI/DWI conviction, be sure to also mention that you have served your debt to society. Bring up any community service, special training pertinent to the job you’re applying for, and so forth. This is a chance to show that you’ve reformed and are making positive strides ahead.

Discussing Your DUI / DWI During an Interview

With regard to job interviews, similar advice applies. Don’t bring up the DUI/DWI conviction unless you are asked. In such cases, the person interviewing you may have already looked at the information on the application and didn’t think it was important to bring up.

If the job recruiter does ask about your DUI/DWI conviction, discuss it honestly and bring up your attempts to take positive steps in the right direction. By answering honestly and confidently, you’re letting the employer know that it’s something you’ve learned from.

Learn More About DUI / DWI Law

If you would like to learn more about all of your legal options in drunk driving cases, be sure to contact our Tempe drunk driving attorneys today. During a consultation with our legal team, we will be sure to provide you with as much helpful information as possible to ensure that you make smart decisions inside and outside of court. We are a legal resource for you.