A conviction on charges of drunk driving can have lasting repercussions beyond a court-ordered sentencing. In addition to the alienation of friends and family, a DUI charge may strain the relationship between an employee and their workplace. Missed work on account of court appearances, community service, and possible jail time can quickly put a once secure career in serious jeopardy.

This very situation was successfully avoided last week by Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams. Facing down a DUI conviction from August of this year, Williams was awarded a lightened sentence that included over $2,000 in fines, two years on probation, mandatory alcohol education classes, community service, and 30 days under home arrest.

The sentence came after the initial DUI charge was reduced to a lesser offense, all in spite of Williams's past 2005 plea of guilty to impaired driving. Prosecutors in the case had sought to put him behind bars for a month, but successful litigation and testimony deflected jail time.

Perhaps most importantly for the Broncos star, a judge postponed the 30 days' house arrest until after the current NFL season, setting a date of Feb. 7, 2013. Williams will soon be able to rejoin his team, both in practice and during games.

Without the right representation in the courtroom, Williams may very well have been forced to spend time in jail while his teammates took to the gridiron. Even in the face of a past conviction, an attorney experienced in DUI litigation can help guarantee a reduced sentencing or outright acquittal.

Source: CBS Sports, "D.J. Williams gets 30 day home arrest for DUI," Oct. 24, 2012