Can An OUI Affect My Career?

Many people operate under the assumption that their business and personal lives are separate, with little to no impact from one on the other. This isn’t the case in many situations, however.

For example, a conviction for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs may have a serious effect on your career.

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Employer Policies in Maine

The professional consequences for a conviction for OUI in Maine will depend on your job and your employer’s policies. Many companies view such a conviction as a sign that you are a safety risk when driving or operating equipment and they may not be willing to take that risk.

Others are not willing to pay for the increase in their insurance premiums if they employ someone with such convictions. In addition, your driver license will likely be suspended; if your job includes driving, like making deliveries or other similar tasks, you won’t be able to perform your duties, and your employer may not be willing to reassign you or hold your job until your license is restored.

In Maine, the legal blood alcohol limit is also much lower for a commercial driver license, with 0.04 percent being enough to result charges. For a first violation, your commercial driving license can be suspended for a year; if you were driving hazardous materials, the suspension increases to three years. A second violation can result in lifetime suspension.

Learn More → What Happens to Your CDL in Maine if You Get an OUI?

Professional Certification and Licenses

Certain professional licenses may also be subject to suspension or even revocation, as well. For a misdemeanor relating to drugs or alcohol or any felony, including OUI, nurses may face license suspension or revocation; accountants, pharmacists and doctors are vulnerable to suspension or revocation for any felony conviction.

Teachers may face penalties, as well, depending on the circumstances surrounding the OUI conviction, as may law enforcement officers and military personnel.

College and University Admissions

Your chances to enter certain professions, as well, since many colleges and universities will not admit potential students with these types of convictions, and you may not be eligible for financial aid if you are accepted; at the least, the university may require that you participate in a counseling program as a condition of admission.

In addition, you may be denied entry into some programs, if the conviction would prevent licensure at the end of the program.

With these potentially serious consequences, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable about these issues if you are cited for OUI in Maine. This allows you to learn about all of your options both before and after trial.

If you, or a loved one, are in need of professional legal advice, please contact The Maine Criminal Defense Group for a case evaluation at (207) 571-8146.