Expunging A DWI from Your Record

A DWI on your record can lead to many hardships. Having a DWI can increase insurance rates and make finding a job difficult. The good news

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is that most states will allow you to expunge a DWI. While expunging a DWI can be difficult, it is definitely worth it in the end.

The first step is to contact officials in charge of criminal records. This will be either the Department of Justice or local law enforcement. It will take some research on your part, but once you have identified the correct officials, you can request your criminal history. A fingerprint and government issued photo I.D may be required. Your local police station can provide you with the fingerprint needed. Then when you have everything in order, mail the items to the proper officials.

Once you receive your criminal history, make note of the DWI date. You will also need to do research on how to expunge your record. This information can usually be found in the Attorney General’s rule book which will inform you of laws and procedures to expunge your record. Make sure you qualify for an expungement because some states have a waiting period before you qualify. Also note that if the DWI was a felony, it may not be able to be expunged.

The next step is filing the expungement. This can be done at the clerk of courts in which you were convicted. There may be a fee associated with filing and be sure to check with local officials as many states will allow you to file through the mail. The request will be heard in a closed court session between a judge, public defender and prosecutor. After the final decision, you will be sent a letter in the mail letting you know of the decision.

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