Anyone arrested on a Florida road for driving under the influence could face severe consequences. While first-time offenders might face some leniency, a conviction could lead to a permanent criminal record. That said, even someone arrested for a first DUI might face jail time and fines. Military members and others who require a security clearance may face additional troubles because of a DUI.
Security clearances and DUI offenses
Individual circumstances may influence how a DUI impacts a necessary security clearance for military members. If the person was involved in an accident where someone was hurt or committed other criminal acts as part of the DUI stop, the consequences might be more severe. However, there could be situations where a first-time, uncontroversial offense creates serious concerns over losing a security clearance.
Military personnel are not the only ones who might require security clearance. Government workers, government contractors, persons involved with elected officials, and others may require such clearances. Security clearances could suffer a revocation under certain circumstances. That could create enormous problems for someone who needs a security clearance to keep their job. Again, a DUI conviction might present enormous problems for such persons.
Dealing with the DUI
A DUI conviction may result in several penalties, including a suspension of a driver’s license and a community service requirement. Again, fines and jail time may be part of the punishment. However, although someone is arrested for driving under the influence, they can present a criminal defense strategy. Sometimes, the person is not under the influence but fails a sobriety test or breathalyzer because of an officer’s mistake.
There could be other issues that come up during the defense. For example, a false positive may result from medicine or even mouthwash. Successfully fighting DUI charges could work in the favor of someone worried about losing their security clearance.