Will a DUI Cost You Your Security Clearance?

Your security clearance is a big deal, and you already know you should be avoiding anything that could cause that clearance to be revoked. However, no one is perfect and we all have lapses in judgment and make mistakes. Should you risk drinking and driving when you have a security clearance in the state of Maryland?

Security Clearances in Maryland

A large number of MD residents work for the government, as we are in close proximity to Washington D.C. And northern Virginia where many government agencies are headquartered. Clearances must be requested by your employer and allow eligibility to access classified information. Because you will be handling very sensitive and private materials on the job, the application process for getting your security clearance is arduous.

Authorities will look into your personal records to ensure you do not possess any behaviors that display untrustworthiness, impulsiveness, or deceit, as they need to ensure to the best of their abilities that you will not compromise the secure data you’ll be given access to. So it’s understandable that they require continuous lawful and appropriate behaviors both inside and outside of work as you maintain your clearance.

Driving under the influence is not only unlawful, but it tells the authorities that you may not be as trustworthy as you were when you were granted your clearance, to begin with. A DUI exhibits a lack of proper judgment on your part, which is a behavior that authorities look for when reviewing the status of your clearance.

Maryland DUI Penalties and Your Government Career

Depending on the circumstances surrounding your DUI, you may or may not lose your security clearance. If your criminal record is clean before your first DUI offense, there might be a chance your clearance will stay active. You will, however, have to comply with any and all requirements that the court demands, and should utilize the legal advice of a professional attorney throughout the entire process.

If any of the following apply to your DUI, you can expect not only a suspended or revoked clearance, but also jail time, heavy fines, MVA penalties, and more:

• You were driving with an underage passenger.
• You caused an accident.
• You harmed another person while driving under the influence.
• You have previous DUI convictions.
• You have prior criminal convictions.
• You were driving on a suspended license.

Call Your Reliable DUI Attorney in Westminster, MD

If you’ve been charged with DUI and you’re concerned about what will happen to your security clearance, contact the professionals at Albers & Associates. Our DUI attorneys will work to ensure the aftermath of this charge follows as least destructive of a path as possible and will do all we can to keep your clearance active. Reach out today for your free consultation for DUI defense legal services in Westminster, MD.