A DUI may be expunged from your criminal record before it is off your driving record.
In California, getting a DUI is a serious matter. Not only do you face criminal charges, but there are administrative consequences as well — the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will administratively suspend your license if you do not contest the suspension. As a result, there are two aspects to every DUI case: criminal and administrative.
If you are convicted of a California DUI, you will have both a criminal record and a DUI on your driving record. A conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely. This means that if you are convicted of a DUI and took no further steps, it could stay on your record forever. However, as a Los Angeles DUI defense lawyer can explain, many people qualify to have their DUI convictions expunged. If you were placed on probation for your DUI and you successfully completed your DUI probation, then you will likely qualify for expungement. You will have to apply for your record to be expunged. If it is approved, you will no longer have to disclose the fact of your conviction on job applications and other forms (with some exceptions).
In contrast, DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for a period of 10 years — without exception. There is absolutely no way to remove a DUI from your driving record before this 10 year period is up, regardless of what you do. That means that you will be paying higher insurance and dealing with other consequences for 10 full years. Once the 10 years is up, the DUI will come off of your driving record.
The bottom line is that getting a DUI conviction is bad for both your criminal AND driving record. Even if you can have your criminal record expunged, it is a process that may take time — as well as money. Moreover, the DUI will still be on your driving record for a period of 10 years, which will result in higher insurance costs. In addition, if you have another DUI during that 10 year period, it will be counted as a second offense. For these reasons, it is vital to have a highly skilled Los Angeles DUI defense lawyer to represent you. An aggressive attorney may be able to help you avoid these consequences by getting the charges dismissed or reduced, or negotiating a favorable plea deal.
At the Chambers Law Firm, our Los Angeles DUI defense lawyers are experienced at handling all types of DUI cases. We know the system, and understand how to get results. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation.
