How to Get a DWI Expunged From Your Record
In Missouri, the short-term consequences of a DWI are often severe – on the first offense, you can face jail time, incur heavy fines and/or have your license suspended. Your insurance premiums can rise, while your social standing can fall.
A DWI can also have serious ramifications long after your jail time is served and your fines are paid. Future employers, landlords and even school admissions boards can run background checks that reveal your prior mistake, and it can cost you a job, an apartment or a college acceptance.
It seems daunting that one mistake could have such a detrimental effect on the rest of your life. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way forever. Can your Missouri DWI be expunged from your record? Yes – with limits.
In order to get your DWI expunged, it must meet the following criteria:
- The offense must have occurred at least ten years prior to expungement.
- The offense must have been your first alcohol-related driving offense.
- The offense must have been a misdemeanor rather than a felony.
- You must have no subsequent or pending alcohol-related driving offenses and no alcohol-related enforcement contacts after the original offense.
If your DWI satisfies these conditions, you may petition for an expungement of your record. If it is granted, your slate is wiped completely clean of that offense. Legally, you never have to disclose it again.
If you are facing DWI charges or you need help to expunge your record, please contact us today. We can assist you in protecting and reclaiming your future – with us behind you, you are never fighting alone.
