How Long Does a DWI or DUI Remain on Your Record?
Posted on 21. May, 2011 by Lawyers in DWI
A charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) can become a major problem if your criminal or driving record comes into question. Unfortunately, convictions of DWI and DUI charges do not simply go away with time. Many people find that their DUI conviction stays on their record for life.
One way that you can avoid having your DUI or DWI conviction from being made public when searching for a job that checks driving records is if they only ask for a certain amount of time passed. If your DUI conviction was 5 years ago and your potential employer only ask for a 3 year driving history, then chances are, your conviction will not be seen. However, with that said, if they ask for a criminal record, more than likely, your DUI or DWI conviction will come to light.
While it may be difficult, it is possible to have a DUI conviction expunged from one’s criminal record. The process can very costly and can require a lot of time and effort, however, it is possible to expunge a DUI or DWI conviction. In most cases, an expungement petition must be submitted, but this is only after certain conditions have been met, such as not being on probation, the petitioner has not been sentenced to state prison, as well as having no pending criminal cases. Furthermore, the original conditions of the sentence by the judge have to have been met, including any jail time served, and all fines and penalties paid.
Typically, individuals seeking to expunge a DUI or DWI conviction will want to seek out the services of a qualified DUI lawyer or an expungement lawyer who focus on the aspects of the legal system that allow for criminal convictions to be expunged from criminal records. Once again, the process can be quite difficult, but with the proper approach, as well as patience, you can get a DUI conviction removed from your record.
As everyone knows, the key to avoiding a DUI conviction in the first place is simply to not drink and drive. However, people who have been convicted of a DUI charge should know their rights and options, including how to remove a DUI conviction from their record. Also, we have all heard of cases of law enforcement not handling cases properly and innocent people being convicted. Knowing your rights and options under the law can be the difference between living with a conviction hanging around your neck and being able to breathe again.
This article is provided as information only and not intended as legal advice in any means or manner whatsoever, the Law Offices of Michael Lowe provides focused legal counsel and representation as a Dallas DWI Attorney and has provided this for informational purposes only.
