Arrested and applying for jobs

Question:  My question is about getting arrested and applying for jobs. I was arrested for a DUI in Van Nuys a few days ago.  I was sleeping in my car with the car running when the cops rolled up and then arrested me for DUI.  I was intoxicated but I was not driving.  I was in custody for about twelve hours then released.

I am about to start looking for a job and I am concerned that this will show up on background checks and cause issues.  Is that something I should be concerned about at this point?

Answer:  The answer to this questions depends on what type of job you are applying for and how extensive the background check is for that particular employer.  A lot of background checks are only doing searches for convictions.  Based on the info you relayed, you were not convicted of anything (and the first court date has not yet taken place, and potentially was not even filed yet).  Therefore, there would be no “conviction” on your background check for this issue.  If a more extensive search was concerned about arrests, then that would likely show up.

Additionally, it may be possible to get your case reduced to a lesser offense or completely dismissed which would then alleviate a lot of future concerns you may have as it pertains to this case and it’s effect on future employment opportunities. 

Feel free to contact me to discuss this further should you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Philip Hache, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney