For employees in Silicon Valley, commuting is a way of life. Though local officials are trying to make public transportation more accessible, riders still have to wade through up to 27 public transit agencies to get where they need to go. Because the time and effort it takes to ride public transportation often outweigh the benefits, most employees drive. However, if you've been convicted of a DUI offense, that's not an option. And the inability to drive in Silicon Valley can have a last impact on your livelihood for years to come. 

Commercial Drivers

If you work as a commercial driver, a DUI conviction could mean the end of your career. California law requires that employers immediately fire any commercial driver convicted of a DUI offense. The law also prohibits taxi, limo, and ride-sharing companies from hiring a driver convicted of a DUI within 7 years. These rules apply regardless of whether the underlying DUI incident occurred while the driver was on or off duty.  

It's important to note here that the legal alcohol limit for a commercial driver is also more stringent. CDL holders can be convicted for a DUI offense if they operate a commercial vehicle with a 0.04 BAC or higher. If the driver drives any other vehicle, the limit is 0.08 BAC or higher.

Professional Licenses

If you work as a medical professional, pilot, real estate agent, or any other profession requiring a license, you may face consequences for a DUI conviction as well. Licensing boards take DUI convictions seriously and levy penalties ranging from discipline and sanctions to suspension and revocation depending on the circumstances. The main concern for these boards is consumer safety. They want to ensure that a convicted professional does not exhibit a drug or alcohol abuse pattern that might affect their duty to perform their job well. 

Noncitizens

If you are not a citizen of the U.S., the consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe depending on your immigration status. Undocumented immigrants face a much higher risk of deportation than documented immigrants. Still, even documented immigrants can face removal, deportation and separation from their loved ones, especially if there are multiple convictions or aggravating circumstances. If you are an immigrant facing DUI charges, it is important to seek an experienced DUI Attorney right away.

Hire a Seasoned California DUI Attorney

Given the potential consequences for a DUI conviction, employees in the Silicon Valley area need a strong defense, and the skilled San Francisco Bay Area DUI lawyers at Amin Law are here to help. Give us a call at 415-851-4300 or contact us online to set up a consultation in your DUI matter today.