Posted in Resources
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence you may have some questions regarding your case. Speaking with a DUI lawyer is helpful to gain information and knowledge about the local laws and legal process. There are many things to consider including your permanent record and how long this offense will be on your record if convicted.
How long will a DUI conviction stay on my permanent record?
Several factors come into play when determining how long a DUI will remain on your record. Any prior offenses will be taken into account when determining consequences so it’s helpful to know how long it will be on your record.
Most states have what’s called a “washout” period where after a certain amount of time DUI convictions will no longer count against you. DUI’s that have passed that timeframe or “washed out” no longer count when determining whether the current crime is a second or subsequent offense. These periods vary by state and are sometimes referred to as the “lookback period”. Usually, for a DUI conviction, this timeframe is 5, 7, or 10 years. Some states do not adhere to this system at all and there is no washout for DUI convictions regardless of how long ago they occurred. In the state of Maryland, the washout period is 10 years, so after 10 years if you then have a subsequent offense it would be charged as a first-time DUI.
Do prior DUI’s affect the severity of consequences?
DUIs tend to result in heavy penalties including license suspension, hefty fines, and possible jail time. The penalty for a DUI does depend on prior DUI convictions, among other things. For a first-time offender, the consequences are usually less severe whereas a second or third-time offender could serve jail time. Because a DUI is considered a criminal offense it is usually charged as a misdemeanor, but depending on the severity it could also be a felony charge. These days it is also common for convicted drivers to use an Ignition Interlock Device for a certain period of time once their license is reinstated.
Get Legal Help
It’s important to contact a lawyer immediately if you’ve been accused of driving under the influence. Finding a knowledgeable lawyer with experience in this area of law will be so beneficial as they will be able to advise you of the laws in your state. A local DUI lawyer can help you build a defense for your case, represent you in court, and guide you through the process.
