A drunk driving arrest and conviction could cause problems for nursing professionals. Many Florida professionals could discover that their legal troubles might cost them their jobs. On the other hand, fighting dubious DUI charges might help someone worried about the arrest’s effect on their nursing career.
DUIs and nursing
A criminal DUI conviction could result in a permanent criminal record that appears on background checks. When someone seeks a nursing job, that information may cause problems for them. Those already employed in the nursing profession might face sanctions, including requirements to be placed on probation.
An employer might fire a nurse convicted of DUI offenses, although some nurses might only deal with a suspension or increased supervision. Issues with the nurse’s license could arise, though. Even if the employer is forgiving, a nurse convicted of a DUI may see their license suspended or revoked. Therefore, it may be wise for a nurse – or any professional – to challenge their charges in court.
DUI legal matters
A person is legally drunk with a blood alcohol content of 0.08%. A breathalyzer would reveal the figure, provided the police officer operates the test correctly. However, an improperly calibrated breathalyzer test could deliver inaccurate results and legal woes.
The police may presume someone is under the influence, or they could be looking to make random DUI traffic stops to increase nightly arrests. Regardless, law enforcement must have probable cause to stop a vehicle and conduct research. Even if someone fails the field sobriety or breathalyzer test, the lack of probable cause related to the arrest could leave the person with dismissed charges.
Be mindful that any person driving under the influence, meeting the alcohol limit or not, can have a DUI arrest. However, further evidence in court could undermine the prosecutor’s case, such as other factors contributing to a false positive on a breathalyzer test. Rinsing with mouthwash or using an OTC medicine containing alcohol might cause an inaccurate result even when the driver didn’t drink.
Besides the effect on their careers, some nursing professionals may worry about the heavy fines and possible jail time they could face. Still, someone guilty of a DUI may not face the maximum penalties since the court couple considers other factors before sentencing.