A misdemeanor driving under the influence (DUI) conviction in Colorado will stay on your criminal record permanently if you were an adult at the time of the criminal offense. Even DUI charges will remain on your record indefinitely unless you take specific legal action to remove them. While the conviction might fade from your driving record after 10 years, it remains indefinitely visible on your criminal background check, which can create ongoing challenges in your life.
Our experienced Colorado DUI defense attorneys are ready to explain your options for minimizing the DUI’s impact on background checks.
The Consequences of a DUI on Background Checks
A DUI conviction can result in 12 points on your driver’s license, in addition to jail time, substantial fines, and a compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device. A DUI can also affect many aspects of your future, including:
- Employment opportunities – Many employers run background checks and may hesitate to consider someone with a DUI conviction.
- Housing applications – Landlords often screen potential tenants and may deny applications based on criminal records.
- Professional licenses – Some professional licensing boards consider a DUI criminal record when granting or renewing credentials.
- Educational programs – Certain academic programs, especially in healthcare or education, may conduct a background screening that could reveal a DUI offense.
- Insurance rates – Auto insurance companies typically examine driving records and raise insurance premiums significantly after a DUI, especially if you need to file an SR-22.
Can a Misdemeanor DUI Be Expunged?
An expungement is a process that involves removing a DUI from your record. In Colorado, DUI convictions generally cannot be expunged. However, there are some exceptions. For example, you may qualify if you were arrested but never formally charged, if the prosecutor dropped the charges against you, or if you went to trial and were found not guilty.
The Legal Process for Sealing or Expunging a DUI
Adult DUI convictions do not qualify for expungement in Colorado, nor can you have those records sealed. However, you may be able to expunge an underage DUI conviction if you are over the age of 21, have completed the terms of your sentence, and have no further convictions for underage drunk driving. Speak with our lawyers to learn more about your options.
How Our Defense Lawyers Can Help with Your DUI Case
At Peakstone Law Group, formerly known as Patterson Weaver, we understand how DUI charges can turn your life upside down. Our experienced defense attorneys will:
- Review every detail of your DUI arrest to identify potential procedural errors.
- Challenge any questionable evidence or testing procedures to undermine the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to seek the least disruptive outcome.
- Guide you through any available options for keeping the charge off your record.
- Fight to protect your rights throughout the entire legal process.
At Peakstone Law Group, our Colorado DUI lawyers help good people overcome bad situations. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our compassionate defense attorneys. Our Colorado Springs lawyers serve DUI defendants throughout the Pikes Peak Region, including El Paso, Pueblo, Teller, Park, and Fremont Counties.
Don’t put your freedom and future at risk. Instead, reach out to our law office right away.