If you’ve been charged with DWI in New Jersey, it’s crucial to understand the long-lasting consequences of such an offense. In addition to paying thousands of dollars in fines, you face driver’s license revocation, ignition interlock device requirements, participation in drunk driving education programs, and possible jail time. However, the ramifications of a DWI go far beyond just the court-imposed sentence. A DWI conviction can impact your life for years to come. That said, many offenders wonder how long a DWI conviction will remain on their record. Please continue reading to learn if you can get a DWI conviction expunged in New Jersey and how a talented Middlesex County, New Jersey, DWI Lawyer can help combat your charges.
Can You Get a DWI Conviction Expunged From Your Record?
While many states offer expungement options to eligible individuals, no expungement options are available for DWI convictions in New Jersey. An expungement is a legal process where a record of criminal conviction is destroyed. Certain criminal offenses can be completely erased or removed from a person’s criminal record after a certain period if they meet eligibility requirements. The process of expunging a criminal conviction offers a range of benefits, including better job opportunities, more education opportunities, more options for housing, and lower insurance premiums. Ultimately, it will mitigate the negative consequences of having a criminal record.
It’s crucial to understand that expungement is limited to criminal offenses. Therefore, since DWI arrests in New Jersey are classified as traffic offenses, a conviction can never be expunged from a driving record. So, while it’s possible to have a crime like shoplifting wiped from your record, this is not an option for a DWI conviction. This means it will remain on your record indefinitely once you’re charged with DWI. A DWI on your record can lead to enhanced penalties if you face a subsequent offense. In addition, it can limit future opportunities.
How Can I Avoid the Permanent Consequences of a DUI Conviction in New Jersey?
If you face a DWI charge, it’s in your best interest to retain the legal services of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help defend your rights and interests. As mentioned above, a DUI cannot be expunged, meaning it will become a permanent part of your record. This means the only way to avoid the long-term consequences of such an offense is to have the charges against you dropped or receive an acquittal.
At the Law Offices of Aditya Surti, LLC, we are prepared to help you explore all available defenses and fight to protect you from an uncertain future. Allow our firm to represent your interests to maximize your chances of achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
