Can a DUI During the Holidays Affect My Professional License?

 Posted on December 12, 2023 in Professional License Defense

The holiday season is a time for celebration and joy, but it can also be a time of increased risk for driving under the influence (DUI) offenses due to alcohol consumption at parties and celebrations. Being arrested for DUI at any time of the year can have serious consequences, and many professionals worry about how such an offense could impact their professional licenses. An attorney with experience in matters related to professional license defense can provide guidance on how to address these issues and defend against potential disciplinary action.

The Impact of DUI Arrests on Professional Licenses

Professional licenses are granted by state regulatory bodies to people who meet specific educational requirements and other criteria in their respective fields. These licenses allow professionals to practice legally, and licensing boards take steps to ensure that they adhere to certain ethical standards.

In Illinois, a DUI conviction can indeed affect your professional license. In addition to criminal penalties such as fines and jail time, as well as the suspension of your driver’s license, you may face disciplinary action from the relevant licensing board. If you hold a professional license in Illinois, The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. can help you understand your options for defending against disciplinary action following a DUI arrest.

Potential Consequences for Professional Licenses

The consequences of a DUI conviction on your professional license can vary depending on several factors, including the specific licensing board and the circumstances surrounding your offense. Here are some potential actions that a licensing board may take following an investigation and disciplinary hearing:

• A warning or reprimand: In less severe cases, the licensing board may issue a reprimand without further disciplinary action. This is more likely for first-time offenders who have been arrested with DUI with no aggravating factors.

• Probation: The licensing board may place you on probation, requiring regular check-ins, mandatory counseling or treatment programs, and periodic drug/alcohol testing.

• Suspension: The licensing board may choose to temporarily suspend your ability to practice in your profession. The length of suspension can vary based on the severity of the offense and whether there were any aggravating factors involved. You may need to meet certain requirements before your license can be reinstated, such as receiving substance abuse treatment.

• Revocation: The licensing board may choose to permanently terminate your professional license. This penalty is typically reserved for repeat offenders or those who commit particularly egregious offenses that demonstrate a lack of fitness for practice.

Even if the licensing board does not take immediate action against your license following a DUI arrest, they may still consider it during future renewal applications or when evaluating complaints against you in the future. You will want to be prepared to address this issue and take steps to defend against potential disciplinary action.

The Importance of Legal Representation

If you are facing DUI charges as a licensed professional, it is crucial to get legal help from an experienced attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer who has handled professional license defense cases involving DUI in the past can help you navigate the disciplinary hearings while working to minimize the impact on your professional license.

Your attorney will review the details of your case, gather evidence, negotiate with investigators or licensing board officials, and advocate for your best interests in hearings or other legal proceedings. They may also help you explore options that could mitigate the consequences on your professional license.

Contact Our Chicago License Defense Lawyer for DUI Charges

If you have been arrested for DUI during the holidays and are concerned about how your professional license may be affected, The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. can advise you of your options and help you take steps to avoid or minimize potential discipline. Our Illinois professional license defense attorney will work closely with you to protect your license and your ability to continue working in your field. Contact us at 630-310-1267 to arrange a free consultation.