A mayor in New York was recently arrested, charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). A local CBS affiliate reported the mayor of Monticello, Gordon Jenkins, was arrested after he appeared intoxicated at the scene of a crime. The mayor was heading home after attending a social gathering.
When confronted by police, the mayor refused a Breathalyzer test. One of the mayor’s largest critics is calling for his resignation in light of these DWI charges, however not all residents are in agreement. One resident told a CBS reporter that everyone “makes mistakes” and appears open to giving the mayor a second chance.
Impact of a DWI conviction
The series of events and criticism following the mayor’s arrest provides an example of the seriousness of a DUI charge. DUI charges can lead to problems both socially and professionally. Many professions can suffer dire consequences when a DWI is on record, potentially leading to termination. This is particularity true of professions that require a special motor vehicle license, like commercial truck drivers. It can also cause difficulties for those in education, medical and legal professions.
A conviction can also make it difficult to find future employment. As noted in Businessweek, those applying for jobs often have to disclose whether or not they have any felonies or misdemeanors on record. Depending on the severity of the offense, a DWI could qualify as either. Even if a potential employer does not specifically inquire about an arrest record it could be discovered during a routine background check.
Types of DWIs
There are a variety of DWI charges that can be issued. For example, an aggravated DWI can result from a driver speeding while intoxicated and the severity of charges can also be increased if there is a minor in the vehicle at the time of the alleged infraction.
Whether or not a conviction is listed as a felony or misdemeanor depends on a variety of circumstances. For instance, a first driving while intoxicated offense with a BAC of 0.08 or higher generally leads to a misdemeanor while a second offense of the same nature can lead to a felony.
Because of the severe impact a DWI conviction can have on one’s professional life, it is important to take the charges seriously before they become a conviction. A strong defense can lead to a reduction or even dismissal of charges. Contact an experienced DWI/DUI for professionals’ attorney to help better ensure your legal rights are protected.
