Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) occurs when a person drives while under the influence. With a conviction, these individuals can face serious legal, financial, and personal consequences. Even employment can be affected. An OVI conviction can influence job opportunities, professional licenses, and workplace relationships.
Let’s look at the impact of an OVI conviction on employment in Ohio. With this information, you can hopefully avoid any of the legal consequences of this offense.
Does OVI Affect Employment?
Unfortunately, if you are required to drive or need a clear criminal record, an OVI conviction can have immediate effects. Many companies have policies requiring employees to report legal infractions. In some cases, you could face disciplinary measures, such as suspension or termination.
Additionally, commercial driving jobs, such as truck drivers, delivery personnel, or bus operators, can face serious consequences. With a conviction, the driver may see a suspension or revocation of their commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Under Ohio law, a first OVI offense results in a one-year disqualification of CDL privileges. That can happen no matter whether the offense occurred in a commercial vehicle or not.
Will an OVI Show Up on a Background Check?
If you have been convicted, then an OVI is more than likely to show up on a background check for years to come. In a competitive job market, a criminal record will put you at a disadvantage. Many employers prioritize hiring candidates with clean records, especially in the healthcare, education, and financial industries.
An OVI conviction can be a major hurdle for individuals applying to positions requiring security clearances or fiduciary responsibilities. Employers often view the conviction as evidence of poor judgment or a potential liability.
Can You Lose a License or Professional Certification?
You need a state-issued license or certification to work in the healthcare, legal, real estate, or education sectors. An OVI conviction can jeopardize the acquisition or renewal of these licenses.
Licensing boards for nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers often view an OVI conviction as unprofessional conduct. You could face disciplinary actions ranging from fines to license suspension or revocation.
Also, teachers in Ohio must maintain a high moral standard and may face disciplinary action, including termination, for an OVI conviction. For lawyers, the Ohio Supreme Court requires legal professionals to report any criminal convictions. Failing to do so can lead to disciplinary proceedings or sanctions.
Life After a Conviction
While some offenses or convictions can be expunged in Ohio, this option is limited for OVIs. If you are looking to mitigate the consequences of a sentence, then successfully partaking in treatment programs or counseling may demonstrate personal accountability and growth.
In these cases, employers may also be open to hiring candidates who show evidence of participation in alcohol education programs or a commitment to sobriety. Along with that, you may want to seek character references and show a commitment to self-improvement. While you cannot change the past, these actions can rebuild trust with potential employers.
Avoid a Conviction
The consequences of a conviction can be far-reaching. In any case, you will want to make sure that this does not end up on your record. Working with an experienced OVI lawyer can help you explore legal options. In some cases, they may be able to have the charges dismissed entirely.
OVI Conviction Can Make an Impact on Your Life
The impact of an OVI conviction on employment in Ohio is severe. It can affect job security, professional licenses, and future career prospects. If you want to avoid any of these issues, you need to work with an attorney who understands Ohio’s criminal justice system.
At Hunt Law LLC, we are ready to help. If you want to arrange a free consultation, please contact us at 330-469-9836.