When the police accuse us of drunk driving, we expect to deal with a ticket and a hefty fine. We may even prepare for a trip to the police station and the need to go to court. What we may not know is that this charge can also impact one’s professional license.
In Michigan, a conviction for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) carries consequences that extend beyond fines and jail time. Professionals holding or seeking licenses in various fields may find their careers significantly impacted.
How can a DUI/OWI impact my professional license?
A DUI/OWI conviction can lead to severe professional consequences, particularly for those in healthcare, transportation, and other regulated fields. Here are some examples:
- Medical license: Doctors may face disciplinary actions from the medical board, including suspension or revocation of their license.
- Nursing license: Similar to doctors, nurses must inform their licensing board of any convictions. The board may impose sanctions, require participation in a recovery program, or place the nurse on probation.
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL): For CDL holders, a DUI/OWI conviction can result in the immediate suspension of their license. Given that their livelihood depends on their ability to drive, this can be particularly devastating.
These examples illustrate the significant and varied impacts of a DUI/OWI conviction on professional licenses.
What can I do to mitigate these risks?
Arguably, it is even more important for professionals facing DUI/OWI charges to take swift and proactive measures than the average driver. This is because their career is also at risk. As such, it is important to seek legal representation with experience in this niche area of criminal law to better ensure a thorough review of all avenues to defend against the charges before they become conviction.