Are you facing charges for driving under the influence (DUI), or what some states call DWI or OVI? If so, it is important that you understand how a DUI conviction could impact your life. Beyond the fines, license suspension, and community service, a DUI can have many other adverse consequences.

Is it worth fighting your DUI charges? Yes, absolutely, and there are many reasons why you don't want to accept the full punishment handed down to you by the state. Here are a few examples of how a DUI can affect your future for the worse:

A DUI can affect child custody. If you're in the middle of a child custody battle, a recent DUI can harm your case. Family law judges frown on criminal behavior, especially when it involves drugs, alcohol, or domestic violence. If it's close, a recent DUI conviction can tip the scales in the other parent's favor.

It can hurt your credit. DUIs can be very expensive when you add up the fines, skyrocketing insurance premiums, DUI school, the costs of an Ignition Interlock Device, and impoundment fees etc. If you have a nice cushion, you're better off. But if you have to put it all on credit, or if your fines go to collections, your credit will probably take a hit.

A DUI can cost you your job. Many states are "at will" employment states. This means that if an employer believes that a DUI is bad for business, they can let an employee go. Also, a DUI can adversely affect people with professional licenses, such as doctors, CPAs, notaries, nurses, teachers, and even plumbers.

DUIs can affect military jobs. If you're in the military, a DUI can affect rank, pay grade, and a future promotion. If you've been in the service for years, you may be encouraged to resign in lieu of an adverse administrative action.

If you are facing DUI charges, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer for help!