I was reminded that a DUI is truly a “classless” crime when a colleague brought a news report to my attention about a Pennsylvania physician who got his eighth DUI. DUI’s are not confined to any particular socio-economic sector of our society, and even the most educated and most trusted people are not immune.
In our home state, a physician’s DUI and unchecked alcohol problems were a harbinger of future encounters with the legal system. Dr. Akram Ismail was arrested in 2005 for DUI. His subsequent behavior escalated into a confrontation with U.S. air marshals at JFK airport. In October 2009, the doctor was charged with murder for hire.
The consequences of a DUI conviction are high for everyone, and physicians may risk their professional livelihood as well. In Florida, as in many states, physicians and other professionals are regulated by a board that reviews their conduct. Although Florida is self-reporting, a physician who does not report a DUI risks disciplinary action.
Physicians who continually drink and drive, such as the unfortunate Dr. Ismail, put their employers at risk as well. Some hospitals are putting programs in place to monitor and help physicians who have had DUI convictions.
A DUI can ruin a career and should not be taken lightly. A DUI defense attorney can help fight the charges and should be consulted as soon as possible after receiving a citation.
