IL defense lawyerGetting arrested for drunk driving can have serious career implications for some people. While Illinois does offer some legal protections for employees with criminal convictions or arrest histories, there are plenty of ways a DUI arrest could affect your job or future job prospects. At a minimum, you will likely need to discuss your arrest with your boss or HR, especially if you unexpectedly did not arrive for a shift because you were in jail. You are most likely to face adverse career impacts if you hold a professional license or if your job duties include driving. An experienced Will County, IL DUI attorney can work to minimize the overall impact your recent DUI arrest will have on your life.

Can I Get Fired for Getting a DUI? 

Generally, an employer cannot fire you just for getting arrested or even just for getting convicted of a crime in Illinois. However, there are many exceptions to this rule. First, if your job involves driving, you could be fired for getting convicted of a DUI. In that case, your conviction would be substantially related to your job duties, and allowing you to continue doing that job would give you the opportunity to re-offend.