Denied Access to Travel Because of a DWI
When you are charged and convicted of a DWI or DUI, there are certain limitations imposed by the state. One obvious alteration is the loss of unlimited driving privileges, in some cases. Did you also know that a DUI on your record can prevent you from traveling to other countries? For some, a travel ban puts a damper on their holiday travel dreams. For others, this can be a massive disruption to their work productivity.
Access Denied
Throughout the United States, if you have been convicted of a DUI and have taken care of it legally, you typically can travel across borders to other states. Although the United States is becoming increasingly progressive through its laws, not all countries feel the same way. Therefore, even if the law locally is a misdemeanor or you can retain certain privileges due to your circumstances, constituents can deny access. In some of these countries, if you have had one DUI for either alcohol or drugs, you are unable to enter the country for ten years. Frequently traveled countries follow these current guidelines:
- Mexico: Foreigners will be denied entry at the border if they have a DUI within the previous ten years.
- Canada: You and your whole family may be denied access unless you pay a $200.00 fine (yes, to another country).
- United Kingdom: Usually a misdemeanor and you can travel there.
- Qatar: A business visa is required to enter Qatar in which a security clearance must be obtained, a DUI may be enough to deny a security clearance.
What Can You Do?
Although there is not much that can be done in the United States to change the laws of other countries, allegations brought against you in your hometown can be fought. A reduction in charges will still enable you to keep travel privileges. A significant amount of information is obtained from the incident, each piece as important as the last. From the reason you were stopped to the treatment at the facility, if any portion was handled incorrectly, we might be able to reduce charges. Many defense options include:
- Driving under duress,
- Involuntarily intoxicated,
- Improper stop,
- Accuracy of testing methods,
- Accused was a passenger, or
- Improper police behavior.
These are just a few options that were previously applicable to other situations that proved beneficial to their case. However, time is of the essence with regards to a DWI. The earlier you contact a lawyer, the more time they have to build a case in your favor as well as the closer it was to the actual event. If you are interested in discussing your options with an experienced San Antonio DWI defense attorney, contact Sam H. Lock today at 210-226-0965 to schedule your initial consultation.
Source:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g153339-c49436/Canada:Dwi.Or.Dui.Driving.Convictions.html
