1. Will this follow me the rest of my life or is it like speeding
where after so many years (3, etc) it's off your record?

It could, but only if you attempt to be a professional pilot and not a
weekend personal flyer.

2. What are the implications of having a violation on my record if I
decide to get a flying job in the future? How seriously do employers
look at violations? Is it a thing where I won't even get called in
for an interview if I have one on my application or will they normally
call me in so I can explain things in an interview?

Could be big, depends on the infraction

3. Any rough idea how it affects insurance rates if there's a
violation (like XX% or something)?


The standard questions is "anything in the past 3 yrs", that I have seen.

4. Is it worth fighting the FAA- how often do folks actually win?
I've only heard horror stories and it seems like a GA pilot really
doesn't have much of a chance.

Should have paid for AOPA legal services ahead of time. Some do win, some
get a smaller slap/suspension with x hrs additional training in the area
under concern, or maybe a re-ride with the FAA to validate your certificate.

5. How negotiable is the FAA regarding the 6-month suspension- have
any of you been able to talk them into something else like a shorter
time (30 days or 60 days) or maybe community service?

See answer #4 above

I would appreciate any comments from folks that have been through this
before (vs just speculation).

Frank


Not been through it, just know others who have.