The Indirect Repercussions of a Cobb County DUI Conviction

In Georgia, being convicted of a DUI comes with severe penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and a driver’s license suspension. These are not, however, the only consequences of a DUI conviction in Georgia, where such a charge goes on a person’s criminal record. This in turn, can have unforeseen short and long-term repercussions, even for first time offenders. Read on to learn more about some of the most common indirect consequences of a DUI conviction.

Job Loss 

Besides the direct penalties of potential jail time, fines, and a license suspension, a DUI conviction in Georgia is also accompanied by indirect consequences that often extend beyond the courtroom and into a person’s day-to-day life. One of the most significant repercussions of a DUI conviction in Georgia is the potential loss of employment. This is especially common in cases where a person’s job requires him or her to drive. Having a DUI conviction on one’s record can also make it difficult to obtain new employment in the future, as many employers are wary of hiring those with a criminal record.

Professional Licenses 

Besides the direct consequence of having their driver’s license suspended, those who are convicted of driving under the influence in Georgia could face difficulties when it comes to obtaining or renewing a professional license, like a commercial driver’s license or a medical license. This in turn, can make it nearly impossible to remain employed and stay on top of rent, utilities, car payments, and other expenses.

Increased Insurance Premiums 

Those who are convicted of driving under the influence also often find that their auto insurance rates go up. In some cases, these rate hikes are so substantial that a person may find him or herself unable to continue paying on a current policy.

Educational Opportunities 

Young DUI offenders are often surprised to find that a youthful indiscretion can affect their educational prospects. Many scholarship programs, for instance, take DUI convictions into consideration when deciding whether to grant financial aid to an applicant. Such a conviction could even affect whether someone is accepted into a university program or internship.

Damage to Reputation 

Unfortunately, there are stigmas that accompany DUI convictions and these stigmas often affect a person’s standing in his or community and can even influence personal relationships. People may be wary of driving with an offender, even after his or her license has been reinstated and those who own businesses could see a downturn in their profits.

Schedule a Free Consultation 

Being charged with a DUI can have far-reaching repercussions beyond the immediate legal ramifications of a potential conviction. A DUI on your record can, for instance, disrupt your professional business, affect your financial stability, and even impact your personal life. Fortunately, a proactive approach can often make all the difference when it comes to mitigating the long-term effects of a DUI conviction. Call experienced Cobb County DUI lawyer Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C. at 678-853-2500 to get started on your own defense today.

Sources: 

gahighwaysafety.org/impaired-driving-laws/

forbes.com/advisor/legal/dui/what-happens-when-you-get-dui/