DUI Impact on Teachers in Connecticut

Many employers have little to no tolerance for drug or alcohol addiction. So, termination of your job is something that you might have to face if you receive a DUI. This is the case with many professions, but it is particularly the case among teachers. As a teacher convicted of a DUI, you could be immediately fired from your job. Or, your employer might decide not to renew your contract when it is over. You might even have to face the loss of your teacher certification. This depends on the circumstances of your DUI and the state that you live in.
If you are a teacher facing a DUI charge, it is important that you prepare yourself for the severity of the consequences that you might face. That being said, hiring a reputable DUI defense attorney can help you to win your case. This might even save your job. Consult a DUI attorney in order to consider your best plan of action. Also, a lawyer can tell you what your chances are of keeping your job.

DUI in Connecticut

In the state of Connecticut, a DUI is considered a misdemeanor and not a felony in most cases. Because a DUI – especially a first offense – is considered a less severe infraction than in other states, it is possible that you will not be fired because of it. Furthermore, because it is not considered a felony, getting a DUI in Connecticut does not automatically mean that your teaching certificate will be revoked. Keep this in mind when you talk to your DUI attorney.

Teaching Implications

It is important to keep in mind that as a teacher, you can face major consequences for your DUI. You will have to deal with the embarrassment of getting a DUI and the stress of dealing with a DUI case. You can also face losing your job. Your financial situation might become uncertain as a result of the case. Also, if you lose your job as well you could be facing serious problems.
Once you receive a DUI, it will remain on your permanent driving record. This means that if you are fired from your current job as a result of your DUI and want to apply to a new teaching job, it will be important that you inform your potential future employer of your DUI. If you do not, that employer can look it up. They can discover that you withheld important information will not look good. As a result, getting a DUI can affect both your current and future job situations.
Many school superintendents will terminate a teacher’s job if they are convicted of a DUI based on the poor decision skills demonstrated in the teacher. An employer can see receiving a DUI as unprofessional and irresponsible. These negative characteristics take on more importance when considering a person who is charged with the job of teaching children. If you can prove to your employer that although you made a mistake, you are changing your habits and seek to be a more responsible person, there is a chance that you will not be fired.

Protecting Your Rights

While there is no guarantee that you will be fired from your job if you receive a DUI, this is something that is a serious possibility if you are a teacher. As a result, there are serious consequences of receiving a DUI if you are a teacher. To protect your rights and get help, contact a lawyer.