The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that every day, about 34 people die in drunk-driving crashes in the United States. Drivers should exercise caution when driving not only to protect themselves and their passengers but also other road users.
In another study from the NHTSA, it was found that about 30% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers (with BACs of .08 g/dL or higher).
DUI has serious consequences and it can change your life forever. When you are proven to have been negligent and caused harm to others, your life, career and future will never be the same again. This begs the question, does a DUI or DWI conviction go on criminal record?
The short answer is driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated can be on your record for 10 years or more, especially if you receive any subsequent DWIs after your initial conviction. A license suspension or revocation can also stay in your records permanently.
Let’s look at the potential consequences of a DWI conviction:
Understanding DUI Charges and Criminal Records
DUI charges hold major consequences for you when it comes to your criminal record. This offense leads to a permanent stain on your record that might prove to be severe.
Most employers have the right to view these records which could potentially deprive you of getting any job involving a requirement to drive. The insurance companies may increase your premiums, or may deny coverage completely. It is truly life changing and you might even think your hands are tied.
But there can be alternatives such as plea bargains or diversion programs that can lessen these effects. So think twice before risking your life or the lives of others. To avoid legal consequences, always stay sober and don’t drink and drive.
The Legal Process for DUI Arrests & Conviction
There’s a long legal process that goes from the time of arrest to that of conviction. And for anyone with a DUI charge, it is necessary to understand the process in its entirety. Once an arrest is made, the next thing that will happen is booking. This is where the police record the information about a person which also includes taking fingerprints.
You will then be given a date for court to take on the arraignment where the plea will be entered. If you plead not guilty, it is taken to pre-trial proceedings where the evidence is reviewed for deliberation of any plea deals.
If the case is not settled within those proceedings, a trial will be held where all parties will present evidence to sustain their respective theories of the case, at which point a judge or jury will decide the conclusion.
If you get convicted, a sentence will then be imposed. Among the possible punishments may be a fine, suspension of license, or jail sentences. Entering into this process may be a little bit complicated; hence the need to seek legal counsel.
Long-Term Implications of a DUI on Your Record
The conviction may be followed by penalties, but the kinds of effects a DUI can have on your record last well beyond just initial penalties. This could affect your chances for employment, as most employers have background checks, and many of them look at DUIs unfavorably.
Some licenses which you could lose because of a DUI may include those for commercial vehicle driving or professional certification. As mentioned, your premiums on insurance may increase in amounts because most insurers consider DUI offenders as high-risk drivers.
And if that is not enough loss, your social life could potentially be affected, with both legal problems and finances tearing down relationships. Aside from that, a DUI may make getting loans or even housing difficult.
Options for Expungement or Sealing of Records
You can file a motion to dismiss a DUI conviction to be considered for expungement or sealing of records. But keep in mind that not all motions are granted by the court and your appeal can still be rejected if they see clear and convincing evidence not to seal your criminal record.
Processes vary by state, but usually, the person can petition the court to expunge or seal a record under certain circumstances. That is why you must know your state’s laws and must have all the necessary documents because waiting periods or ineligibility based on the nature of the crime may exist in some jurisdictions.
And if you still find it difficult to handle all these alone, having a lawyer’s help will be an asset to resolve not just with a DUI conviction, but even with driving while your license is revoked (DWLR) cases.
It really takes maturity to take responsibility for every action we have made. But do not condemn yourself for one mistake, instead, learn to take this as a life lesson to lead your life in a better path. Have a competent lawyer to assist you every step of the way and don’t attempt to handle your DUI case on your own.