Whether you are currently facing DUI charges or have a previous conviction, you may be wondering, “Can you drive for Los Angeles Metro Bus with a DUI?” The answer will ultimately depend on how long it has been since you have had a DUI conviction on your record. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) has strict policies in place regarding criminal offenses to ensure the safety of bus passengers and others on the road.
Generally, a current DUI charge or conviction will prohibit you from driving for LA Metro; however, you may qualify for a driving position if your latest conviction did not occur within the last seven years. Still, LA Metro will take various factors surrounding your criminal record into consideration and make decisions on a case-by-case basis.
If you are currently facing charges, a Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help you. They can build a defense strategy and work to get your charges reduced or dropped. If you already have a conviction, a DUI attorney can explore your options for expungement. In doing so, this may make it easier for you to secure a job with LA Metro.
LA Metro’s Fair Chance Initiative
LA Metro follows California’s Fair Chance Act and applies a Fair Chance initiative to its hiring process. This initiative aims to give job applicants equal opportunities despite having a criminal record. While LA Metro cannot conduct a background check before extending a conditional offer of employment, they will do so once you accept the offer.
If you currently have an open DUI case, it will probably disqualify you from driving for LA Metro Bus. If you have a conviction that is older than seven years, the company will make its determination based on how old the conviction is and how it relates to the position you are applying for.
Older DUIs Reviewed Case-by-Case
For those with DUI convictions older than seven years, LA Metro does not have a firm prohibition but rather reviews each situation on a case-by-case basis through its internal employment screening process. Factors they may consider include:
- The exact timeframe of when the DUI occurred
- Applicant’s age at the time of the offense
- Circumstances and severity surrounding the DUI incident
- Whether it was an isolated incident or part of a pattern
- Successful completion of court probation/requirements
- Demonstrated rehabilitation efforts
Even in cases where an older DUI doesn’t automatically disqualify, it can still impact hiring decisions if LA Metro feels the conviction raises concerns over an applicant’s judgment, responsibility, or commitment to public safety.
Strict Policies for Current Employees
For those hired prior to having a DUI on record, LA Metro enforces strict disciplinary policies including potential termination for bus operators who acquire new DUI convictions while employed, even for first-time offenses.
Given the immense responsibility of safely operating large passenger buses, LA Metro understandably maintains high standards regarding DUI histories for its bus operators. Consulting legal counsel is highly advised for those with prior offenses exploring this career path to understand their options fully.
How a DUI Lawyer in Los Angeles Can Help if You Want to Drive for Los Angeles Metro
Facing DUI charges or having an existing conviction can severely hamper employment prospects as a bus operator with the LA Metro. However, a Los Angeles DUI attorney may be able to help protect your ability to pursue this career path.
For Those Currently Facing DUI Charges
If you’re an aspiring Metro bus driver dealing with pending DUI charges, involving a DUI attorney can help to:
- Mitigate potential conviction or penalties: A lawyer can scrutinize the evidence, police procedures, and circumstances surrounding the charges. They leverage any defenses, legal issues, or mitigating factors to negotiate for reduced charges, diversion programs, or outright dismissals where possible.
- Advocate for your professional interests: Even if some violation occurs, a DUI lawyer argues for sentence structures better positioned to preserve your eligibility at Metro down the road, such as minimizing license suspension periods.
- Guide you through DMV hearings: DUI cases also involve separate DMV administrative proceedings your attorney handles to contest potential license revocations detrimental to maintaining proper credentialing.
For Those With an Existing DUI Conviction
If you have a prior DUI already on your record that could impact job prospects at LA Metro, a skilled DUI lawyer may be able to pursue expungement. Depending on the circumstances, your lawyer can file petitions and represent you before judges to have an old, isolated DUI expunged from your record, enhancing employment eligibility.
When you call a DUI law firm, they can explain more about how you can get your DUI expunged in California.
Call a DUI Attorney to Learn More About Whether You Can Drive for LA Metro Bus With a DUI
While LA Metro maintains justifiably strict policies on DUI histories for bus operators, having legal representation provides the best pathway to preserve your ability to ultimately secure this driving position.
There are also other things on the line when facing DUI charges, such as fines, jail time, and license suspension. Do not take a chance when it comes to your charges. Begin working on your defense immediately with a DUI attorney.
Call a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible. They can discuss your case during a free consultation.
