Could a pending speeding ticket jeopardize my summer internship?
I’m currently set to intern at a Top 40 Accounting firm in a consulting role this summer. I’m a junior working towards my Master of Accounting with a 3.9 GPA, and I secured my offer back in April 2024—more than a year ahead of my start date.
Recently, they conducted a second background check and flagged something “non-standard,” which turned out to be a pending speeding ticket for going 26+ over the limit. I’ve never had any legal issues before, and my lawyer is optimistic that I’ll just need to pay a fine, take an online driving course, and the ticket will be erased from my record.
I have a meeting scheduled with HR two days after my court date about this situation. Assuming everything is resolved, is there a chance my internship could still be at risk?
One response
It’s understandable to be concerned about how a pending speeding ticket might affect your internship, especially given the competitive nature of firms like the one you’re interning with. However, there are a few factors to consider:
Legal Perspective: Since your lawyer is confident about the outcome, it sounds like you’re on the right track to resolve the situation. If you are able to pay the fine and complete online driving school, which often leads to a dismissal of the ticket, this should alleviate potential concerns.
Company Policies: Some companies may have strict policies regarding any criminal offenses or driving violations, but many primarily focus on more serious legal issues, especially if you’ve not had any prior infractions. It might help to review the firm’s policy on this or ask discreetly if you have contacts within HR.
Communication: When you meet with HR, be honest and upfront. Explain your situation, how you are addressing it, and your confidence in clearing it. Highlight your strong academic record and the positive aspects of your internship offer.
Impact on Employment: Generally, a single speeding ticket, especially if it’s resolved quickly and doesn’t become a more serious offense, is unlikely to lead to the revocation of a summer internship, especially since there are no previous issues on your record.
Future Behavior: Emphasize your commitment to responsible behavior moving forward. Taking proactive steps to address the situation demonstrates maturity and accountability.
In conclusion, while there’s always some level of uncertainty, if you handle the situation appropriately and the ticket is resolved favorably, it’s likely that your internship will remain intact. Good luck!