Getting a DUI in Oklahoma has far-reaching consequences on life. Your ability to travel internationally may be limited or denied in some instances. Working with an Oklahoma DUI defense attorney is the most beneficial way to navigate the long-term impact of a DUI on international travel and your life.
Review a Country’s Laws on International Travel and DUI
Getting a DUI in Oklahoma will impact your ability to travel internationally for business or pleasure. While adjusting your vacation plans can be inconvenient, being denied entry into another country to travel for business because of a DUI can affect your career. The country that is your international travel destination will have specific laws that impact your ability to enter. Some countries with international travel laws affected by a DUI conviction include:
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- United Kingdom
International travel requirements will vary. Failing to disclose information about a DUI may result in significant legal implications. Honesty is always the best policy when traveling internationally with a DUI conviction.
Factors Impacting Your Ability to Travel Internationally With a DUI Conviction
Many countries will evaluate the circumstances surrounding a DUI conviction before allowing you into the country. For example, to enter Canada, a review of the facts surrounding a conviction will occur before you can enter. Factors in a DUI conviction that may impact international travel include:
- Your involvement in a criminal activity, like driving under the influence in Oklahoma
- How long ago a DUI conviction occurs
- The degree of a DUI conviction
- Any prison sentence, how long your sentencing lasts, and how long ago your sentencing occurred
- Whether you have repeat offenses
- Exclusion from entry into another country
- Your rehabilitative success
- Your risk to public interest or threat to public order
While multiple charges and convictions of a DUI depend on personal choices, other factors that impact international travel may be influenced positively by working with an Oklahoma DUI defense attorney.
How Working With a DUI Defense Attorney May Improve Your Outcome and Ability to Travel Internationally
Most people only consider the short-term impacts of a DUI on their lives. However, an experienced DUI defense lawyer will work to take immediate action to improve the long-term effects a DUI may have. Your legal representative may take these steps to improve the outcome of a DUI case in Oklahoma:
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges against you
- Fight in court for lesser penalties or dropping a DUI charge when there is a lack of evidence
- Advocate for alternative rehabilitative programs
- Determine if DUI expungement in Oklahoma is possible
- Discuss the impact of good character on your ability to obtain a character waiver
Many government entities consider your character before approving your entry. Failing to meet a country’s character requirements may prevent international travel. A DUI conviction often requires you to take extra steps, like getting a character waiver, before gaining approval for international travel.
When to Consult With a DUI Defense Attorney in Oklahoma
Proactively defending against a DUI conviction may significantly improve your legal outcome. The future social and economic impacts of a DUI on your life can be devastating when a conviction prevents your ability to travel internationally. Immediately advocating for your best interests after a DUI arrest in Oklahoma is crucial. Hope is not lost, and options for more favorable outcomes may be available when you work with an experienced DUI defense lawyer in Oklahoma.