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The Social Stigma of a DUI

Posted by Aaron J. Wolff | Aug 29, 2012 | 0 Comments

A DUI arrest is a serious matter in the eyes of the law. However, the court’s judgment can often be less severe than that of your professional and personal contacts. The ramifications of a DUI charge in Washington State go well beyond the considerable time and money it takes to fight it. The social stigma attached to a DUI charge can have a tremendously negative impact on a person’s life as well, which is why you should hire a capable DUI attorney to mitigate this dire situation.

Professional Opportunities

If you are charged with DUI or Physical Control in Washington statet. Given the court appearances and DUI lawyer meetings that are necessitated by this circumstance, you will most likely be forced to take time off work to attend to your legal responsibilities. Because of the often scandalous associations attached to a DUI charge, you can correctly assume that word of your arrest will quickly travel through the company grapevine. Fair or not, this kind of gossip can severely affect your professional standing. Especially in fields such as education, medicine, or law, where others look to you as an authority figure and moral compass, a DUI charge can have a disastrous effect on your career. If you’re a teacher, your school may enact a suspension, as you can be considered a safety risk to your students. The same holds true if you are a doctor. Though you may have never had a single drink while on the job, that doesn’t mean you won’t be suspected of it. A DUI charge can also affect future job opportunities, as many employers now run background checks on potential employees. Before you even have a chance to prove your worth to a company, you will be eliminated from contention. To avoid these life-changing effects of a DUI conviction, contact a DUI defense attorney for help.

Social Engagements

As word of your DUI charge begins to spread, it will most likely cross the boundaries of your professional contacts. Should the spouse or friend of a coworker hear about your DUI conviction, they may become the first in a long line of social acquaintances that learn of it. If you have any social obligations such as being a PTA parent, volunteer coordinator, or any other position in which you are providing assistance or guidance for others, you may be asked to step down from your responsibilities. The unfortunate truth is that many social organizations do not want to be associated with the negative connotations of a DUI or with someone who has been convicted of it. That’s why it’s vital to be proactive in hiring a DUI lawyer to stem the wave of your DUI charge.

Personal Relationships

Our friends and family are expected to stand by us during difficult times. Though many will, all too often our loved ones are the very people who judge us the most harshly when we experience circumstances like a DUI charge. A DUI conviction can easily undermine your position as a parent, spouse, or friend. Your children may no longer respect your authority. Your husband or wife may resent you for the emotional and financial stress you are putting them through. Your friends may be embarrassed to be seen with you. Don’t let a DUI conviction overturn your professional, social, and personal relationships. Consult with a Seattle DUI attorney about how you can successfully fight your charge and regain your life.

About the Author

Aaron J. Wolff

A former DUI prosecutor, Aaron Wolff has over 18 years of experience in representing people accused of DUI and is recognized as one of the leading defense lawyers in Washington State. His relentless and passionate advocacy has lead to superb ratings and outstanding reviews from former clients.

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