Oil field work is a popular career for many people in Texas. The range of job possibilities means that everyone from people who didn’t graduate high school to those with advanced degrees can likely find a job that enables them to earn a good living.
The conditions of working in the oil fields or on oil rigs are harsh. Long hours and challenging work are common, but many workers don’t mind because of the nice paychecks.
Many people who work in the oil fields and on oil rigs don’t want to lose their jobs. Because of this, they’re often concerned if they learn that they’re facing criminal charges.
Texas is an at-will state
Texas is an at-will employment state, which means that employers can terminate employees for any legally valid reason. The company’s policies will play an important role in determining if a person can keep their job if they’re facing a criminal charge. Some employers may not take any employment action unless the criminal charge results in a conviction. Positions with security considerations may have stricter rules about criminal charges.
Missed work
For some oil industry workers, the impact of criminal charges on their jobs doesn’t have anything to do with whether a person is convicted or not. In some cases, the issue that these workers face is the time that it takes to fight the charges. They may have to take time off to consult with legal representatives and attend court hearings.
If the worker is convicted, they may face serious penalties, such as incarceration. The employer may not be able to hold the person’s job until they’re released from jail or prison. Other penalties, such as probation or random drug testing, can be difficult to comply with because of the long hours and intense work. Having to leave work to meet those requirements could put the company in a bind.
Any oil field or oil rig worker who’s facing criminal charges should ensure they understand their options for a defense strategy. Working with someone familiar with these cases may help them to mitigate the effects that the legal matter has on them.