Facing DUI (driving under the influence) charges and wondering how this will affect your future? Many drivers facing their first DUI are unsure what steps to take to mitigate the lasting effects that a DUI has on their driving record.
If you are wondering how long a DUI will stay on your record in Washington State or what to do when facing DUI charges, keep reading this article or give Leyba Defense a call to speak with a DUI attorney.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Washington State?
So how long exactly does a DUI stay on your record in Washington State? The answer is disheartening, to say the least.
In Washington State, a DUI conviction remains on your driving record permanently.
However, just because a DUI remains on your driving record forever does not mean that it carries the same amount of severity for all time. A DUI charge on your record is most impactful for the first seven to ten years after you’ve received it.
Once several years have passed and a driver is without additional driving infractions, the weight of a DUI lessens somewhat.
What Does Having a DUI on Your Record Mean?
In Washington State, an employer may not discriminate against a job applicant because of a prior DUI conviction unless the charge directly relates to the role that the applicant is applying for.
While a DUI conviction may appear on your criminal record, employment background check, or driving record if the arrest happened more than ten years ago, employers are not supposed to consider this as grounds for not hiring an applicant. A DUI on your record will also significantly increase your car insurance expenses.
Impact of Future DUI Convictions On Your Driving Record
In terms of future offenses, having a prior DUI conviction on your driving record means that the penalty for a repeat offense is increased significantly. Drivers facing a second or third DUI charge will spend more time in jail, pay a higher fine, and possibly face permanent license suspension.
Because future driving offense penalties become more severe as they compile, it’s important to treat a first-time DUI charge as the serious matter that it is. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, it’s paramount to work with a DUI attorney in order to protect yourself and your future.
How to Get a DUI Expunged From Your Record
Unfortunately, in Washington State, drivers are not permitted to have DUI convictions expunged from their driving records.
However, drivers are permitted to have other misdemeanors expunged if they wish to do so. If you are hoping to have a past misdemeanor expunged from your record or you want to contest a DUI charge, you must work with a defense attorney.
Contact a DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you do not want the blemish of a DUI permanently on your driving record and wish to contest your DUI charge or have the penalty lessened, you need to hire a DUI attorney.
Drivers who attempt to represent themselves don’t often reach a satisfactory outcome which is why it’s essential to have a skilled DUI attorney on your side for the upcoming legal road. To schedule a free consultation with a seasoned DUI attorney, give Leyba Defense a call today.