An arrest for DUI can severely alter an individual’s life in many ways, including hampering future travel plans. With the right Roswell DUI lawyer and knowledge of immigration law, however, it may still be possible to meet international travel goals.
Entry restrictions depend on the nature and date of your conviction as well as your efforts at rehabilitation and remorseful repentance. Here are a few suggestions to help navigate these complexities:
Honesty is Key
Are You Arrested for DUI in Roswell? Having been arrested for driving under the influence can significantly change your life in numerous ways. From having to attend classes and work with a probation officer, to facing jail time, fines and license suspension – each consequence could have long-term ramifications on both career opportunities and educational pursuits. If this is your second DUI offense in Roswell it could even lead to felony charges which have lasting repercussions that have serious repercussions for career progression and educational progress.
Honesty is essential when traveling internationally after being arrested or convicted for DUI, with USCIS and immigration officials who review visa applications demanding all the details about your criminal past; including when, where and why each incident took place as well as official documentation for any alleged crimes and discharge or expungement paperwork as applicable.
Be open with your fiance(e), other individuals involved with the application process and airlines and accommodation providers during this process, including airlines and accommodation providers. Most often these organizations will work with someone with criminal backgrounds, and be more understanding towards you and your situation.
If you have been charged with DUI and are planning to travel internationally, it is imperative that you consult an experienced Roswell DUI attorney like James Yeargan before leaving home. As a former prosecutor himself, Attorney James Yeargan possesses ample experience defending clients against DUI charges and can assess your individual situation accurately. Reach out today to his office for a complimentary consultation session!
Research the Immigration Laws of Your Destination(s)
Dependent upon the country of residence, individuals convicted of DUI may face different restrictions upon entering and traveling to them. Some countries will deny entry if a traveler has more than one DUI conviction while others require either mandatory treatment programs or lengthy jail time as punishments for their conviction.
If you are arrested for DUI with children under 14 in your vehicle, this charge could carry much heavier penalties and more serious repercussions for both of you.
If this is your first DUI charge, the Pretrial Diversion Program could be an option for you. If accepted into this program, a fee will need to be paid as well as agreeing to random drug and alcohol screenings as well as possible evaluation for alcohol abuse.
No matter the course you take – Pretrial Diversion Program or trial – your attorney will need access to the police report in order to prepare. This report contains vital details such as officer observations about your driving, results of field sobriety tests you were required to undergo and state administered breathalyzer tests administered. Your case could also involve what’s known as an administrative hearing that can have far reaching ramifications for criminal proceedings.
Plan Ahead
International travel can be an exhilarating and life-altering experience, but if you have a criminal background it is vitally important that you plan ahead. Some countries have stringent entry policies depending on the nature and severity of conviction(s). A Roswell DUI lawyer can help explain these laws as well as work with you to minimize how past criminal convictions might impede future travel plans.
Since being honest is key when dealing with government officials, this advice particularly holds when applying for visas or entry permits. Any attempt at concealing past criminal conduct could have serious repercussions that aren’t worth taking the risk for. Also essential: research entry requirements thoroughly and collect any documentation such as police certificates, letters of good conduct or waivers needed.
If you have been charged with DUI in Roswell, take immediate steps to secure legal advice from an experienced Roswell DUI attorney like Jim Yeargan and his team. He and his team can be reached day or night to discuss your case, providing guidance through this difficult situation with their expertise on Georgia DUI law as well as international legal landscapes – providing insight on how best to address complex situations such as travel abroad after being arrested for DUI.
Obtain a Copy of Your Criminal Record
If you have an arrest record – from DUI charges to serious felonies – travelling may be severely restricted. Your record must be disclosed on any visa applications and can determine whether you’re allowed entry.
Even a first time DUI conviction can carry heavy penalties in Roswell, such as jail time, fines and mandatory alcohol treatment programs. A subsequent or third DUI can mean being charged with a felony which will have long-term repercussions for your employment and educational opportunities.
Lawyers can often assist individuals in getting around these restrictions by expunging their records; however, it’s important to remember that such records will still be visible when crossing international borders and how each country interprets expunged records differs greatly.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Roswell, The Law Offices of Richard Lawson can help you understand your options and mitigate potential penalties associated with a conviction. Reach out today and speak with one of our former prosecutors and expert DUI lawyers; they’re available 24/7 and ready to put their knowledge, experience and litigation skills to work on your behalf!
