Although the criminal penalties for a first-time drunk driving offender may be as minor as a misdemeanor, the same cannot always be said for someone who must safeguard his or her professional license. In fact, that risk may be present even for recent graduates who are applying for a professional license for the first time.
Given the amount of education and hard work that goes into obtaining a professional license, it doesn’t seem fair that a single bad decision could cost an individual his or her livelihood. That outcome would be even more unjust if the drunk driving arrest didn’t involve any injuries or property damage.
If you have been arrested on a drunk driving charge in Pennsylvania, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Indeed, that opportunity should be utilized as soon as one is read his or her Miranda rights. An attorney can apprise an individual not only of the potential criminal charges he or she is facing, but also whether a conviction on those charges might jeopardize one’s professional license.
Our law firm focuses on both criminal and professional license defense. That combined practice focus allows us to comprehensively represent professional clients who are facing drunk driving charges. Accordingly, we mount a defense on two fronts.
Regarding the license defense, we inquire whether the arrest must be reported to the applicable professional governing board. In some instances, only felony-level convictions must be reported. On the criminal front, we review the arrest record to determine if the arresting officer complied with applicable procedures. We can also negotiate with prosecutors, possibly resulting in a reduced sentence.
Related page: “Is my professional license at risk in Pennsylvania if I get a DUI?” copyright 2016, Law Offices of Brian E. Quinn