One lapse in judgment can find you behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol. However, that one seemingly small instance of bending the rules can have a huge impact on your life.
Most Pennsylvania DUI offenses are misdemeanors, but that doesn’t mean you will walk away with just a slap on the wrist. Having a criminal offense of any severity on your record can impact your education, career, and even your living situation.
Will your landlord evict you for a DUI?
Your landlord or apartment manager may be within their rights to terminate your tenancy on the basis of your criminal history, especially if criminal behavior violates the terms of your lease agreement. It also goes without saying that eviction may be inevitable if you face jail time and are thus unable to pay rent. In Pennsylvania, a second DUI offense may entail up to 6 months in prison.
How will a DUI affect future rental applications?
Though Pennsylvania landlords might not always have solid grounds to evict a tenant for receiving a DUI charge, it will almost certainly make future applications more difficult. DUI convictions will show up on any background check, so landlords might opt to select an applicant with a cleaner record. However, landlords must promptly send a notice of denial that includes their reasoning for the disqualification.
The state of Pennsylvania does not pass felony convictions for DUI offenses, which may make it unlikely for some landlords to evict you after driving under the influence. That does not mean it is impossible, however, and you should be aware of how future applications might go if you do not defend yourself adequately against your DUI charge.
