Nobody looks forward to receiving their first DUI charge. Being arrested for a DUI in Florida can be interpreted as the antithesis of turning 21 and finally being able to purchase your first adult drink at the bar. The limitations a DUI charge can bring on your freedom are vast, with incarceration being just the tip of the iceberg. A DUI in Palm Beach County can carry several repercussions, several of which most people are aware. If you’ve been arrested and charged for DUI recently, it is understandable that you are going through a difficult time. While you may be familiar with some of the various penalties you may face for this generally misdemeanor offense, there are other ways DUI can impact your life that you may not even know about.
Car Insurance Rates
A DUI flags you as a high-risk driver to your insurance company. If you thought you were paying too much for car insurance now, see how high your rate will rise after a DUI conviction. Depending on the severity of the offense, you may not even be able to receive coverage at all.
Child Custody
Whether you are in the midst of divorce proceedings or you have finalized the dissolution of marriage, a DUI is a prime influence on a judge’s decision as to whether or not you may share custody of your children with your spouse, or how much time to allocate to you. A DUI may be perceived as a drinking problem and can subject you to be perceived as an unfit parent.
Limited Employment Opportunities
Even if driving is not part of the job, many employers refuse to hire employees with criminal records. A DUI can be a serious hurdle for finding a new job or advancing in your career. A DUI conviction may also get you fired from your current position, especially if your conviction is discovered while you are in a high profile position, such as a doctor, lawyer, nurse, or teacher.
Limited Travel Opportunities
It may be possible to request the ability to travel while you are on probation for an offense; however, if you have a DUI conviction, some travel restrictions remain even if you are permitted to travel by your probation officer. Canada is just one country that prohibits those with a DUI conviction from entering the country, even if your offense was a first-time misdemeanor. If you are able to get in with a visa, you may be detained and deported if your DUI is discovered.
Emotional Consequences
You may already be feeling a mixed bag of negative emotions following your DUI arrest. Shock, embarrassment, frustration, remorse, incredulity, anxiety may be among the most prevalent. In addition to your personal state, relationships you currently enjoy may suffer as a consequence. Family members and friends may be shocked to hear of your DUI arrest. They may question your choices, character, and ability for self-control. A DUI oftentimes breeds doubt between family members and friends, and can fan the flames of everything that you’re going through. Don’t let a DUI charge take over your life. Do what you can to fight your DUI in Palm Beach County by working with an experienced and experienced DUI attorney like Brian Gabriel. For over 30 years, The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel has defended the rights of those charged with DUI and other alcohol offenses. Mr. Gabriel protects your interests at each turn and guides you through the entire process so that you are thoroughly educated and prepared. Call 561-622-5575 to schedule a free consultation or contact Mr. Gabriel online.