Keeping a prestigious job such as working in the military requires that you conduct yourself well both at work and in your personal life. Everything that you do reflects on your character and the likelihood that you will repeat such actions. Therefore, if you are charged with a DUI, it could have an impact on your career no matter what your profession.
However, as a service member, you are held to an even higher standard than the average civilian. As a member of the military who is charged with a DUI, you could be punished under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and subject to Article 15 nonjudicial punishment. The following is an overview of how this charge may affect your career.
Losing your driver’s license
It’s almost certain that you will have your driver’s license suspended as a result of a DUI conviction. If you have transportation duties within the military, this could affect your ability to fulfill your duties.
Revocation of privileges
You may face administrative actions after a DUI conviction, and this could mean that certain privileges that you have worked to gain will be revoked instantly.
Reduction in pay grade
A DUI conviction could likely lead you to be demoted and face a reduction in your pay grade. You’ll also likely have difficulty being promoted in the future, and having a DUI on your record could severely affect your ability to move forward in your career.
Mandatory substance abuse treatment
The military does not want to have service members who are addicts. This can have a devastating impact on the team and safety. Therefore, those convicted of a DUI will likely need to go through mandatory treatment for substance abuse so that they are able to address their unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
If you work in the military and you have been charged with a DUI, make sure that you take action to defend yourself and avoid facing the consequences of a conviction.