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How a DWI Could Impact Your Professional License

Due to the severity of a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction, individuals may have their professional licenses revoked or suspended along with their driver’s license. This is because professional licensing boards consider DUIs/DWIs to be serious convictions. As a result, a DWI could have a long-term effect on a professional’s career.

Types of Professional Licenses at Risk Following a DWI

If a professionally licensed individual is convicted of a DUI or DWI, this conviction can have serious repercussions. It not only can lead to the suspension or revocation of a license, but it can also tarnish individuals’ reputations as licensing boards determine that they are a risk to the community. 

Many professionals could see a serious negative impact on their careers due to a DWI conviction, including physicians, teachers, pharmacists, engineers, RNs, mental health professionals, dentists, attorneys, insurance and real estate agents, and PTs or LVNs.

Regardless of a person’s profession, it’s important to avoid a DWI by driving safely and responsibly.

How to Protect a Professional License from a DWI Charge

If an individual with a professional license is charged with a DWI or DUI, there are ways to challenge these charges. People can challenge claims that officers make. While slurred speech, red eyes, and flushed face may be signs of intoxication, they may also result from a number of other causes including eye strain or exhaustion, particularly if a professional has worked long hours.

In addition to arguing that results are inaccurate, individuals should contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer to help build a case. Working with a professional license defense attorney may also help strengthen a case and collect sufficient evidence to challenge DWI charges. With the right criminal defense and professional license defense teams, licensed professionals can increase their chances of avoiding the long-term impact of a DWI conviction.

It’s important to avoid driving while intoxicated under any circumstances, but if an officer charges and arrests a professionally licensed person for suspected DWI, there are ways to avoid or lessen a conviction to prevent lasting damage. The key is to avoid going it alone and preparing an inadequate defense. Regardless of the circumstances,  reputable attorneys may be able to help build a case and protect professional licenses. 

Max Keller image
Attorney Max Keller
Max Keller

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Experience: Practicing since 1997
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

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Can You Be Charged With a Drug Crime Based on Text Messages Alone?

You can be charged with a drug crime based on text messages alone in Minnesota, especially when the messages show intent to purchase, sell, distribute, or traffic drugs. Prosecutors often use text messages to demonstrate intent to commit a drug crime, show a history of drug activity, link you to a specific phone, and corroborate physical evidence. Text messages often strengthen the probable cause required for the police to arrest and charge you. They are, however, not sufficient for a conviction without compelling supporting physical evidence.
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Can the Police Lie to You During an Interrogation in Minnesota?

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