A Lapse in Judgement Has Life Changing Consequences
A momentary lapse in judgment such as a DUI can have an enormous impact on your life. With a DUI record, your cheap auto insurance rates are likely to increase. Besides, it can also deter you from securing a good job, adequate housing, and quality education. Anything that requires a background check will be impacted virtually since most people are biased regarding people with a criminal record.
Here are some of the frequently asked questions to guide you with some in-depth guidance on DUI’s, OWI’s and their subsequent consequences in the State of Indiana.
How Long Does DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?
Driving when drunk or under the influence of some sort of controlled substance, prescribed or not, may not seem like such a big deal, but once you are caught, then it is. A DUI and Operating While Intoxicated arrest will stay on your driving record for at least ten years from the date of conviction. Note that this depends on your state, but in most cases, it is a minimum of ten years.
Once a criminal record is put on your driving record, there is no way to expunge it before its expiration date. Although your driving record is not included in background checks, it can still cause increased insurance rates.
How Long Does DUI Stay on Your Criminal Record?
A DUI can remain in your criminal record forever or permanently. It is considered more of a criminal offense in most states than a traffic violation, which means you can also be sent to jail.
Unlike a driving record, a criminal record can be easily accessed worldwide. That means an employer, landlord, or school can see your criminal record every time a background check is done. This means your chances of getting a good job, adequate housing, and education are reduced.
Also, a DUI arrest on your driving record affects your finances and can even affect your chances of getting child custody during a divorce. So, as much as DUI may not sound like a violent crime, it may seriously affect your life.
Can You Expunge a DUI case?
With the help of an expungement attorney, there are specific circumstances where you can expunge your DUI criminal record. You are only eligible for a DUI purge if you have already served all penalties, you are currently under no investigations or facing criminal charges, and your sentence does not involve jail time.
Once you qualify for expungement, your lawyer can help petition the court to remove the convictions from your criminal record. And if it is successful, you no longer must worry about your record being accessed by potential employers or landlords.
Typically, an arrest due to driving under the influence of alcohol on your record can be troublesome. However, if you take all the necessary steps to expunge it, that incident can be left behind, leaving your record clean. Take a more careful approach when driving, and you may never have to encounter a DUI charge.
Are You Currently Facing a DUI or OWI Charge?
If you are currently facing an OWI or a DUI charge in Indiana, you need to speak with an attorney that is skilled in OWI and DUI cases! Call the Gemma & Karimi, LLP at (317) 676-4747 to speak with an Indiana DUI attorney right away!