A DUI conviction can have serious consequences on one’s life, including a criminal record and limited job opportunities. However, many people don’t know that it may be possible to have a DUI conviction expunged, or removed, from one’s record. If you’re wondering if you can have a DUI conviction expunged in Pennsylvania, keep reading.
Firstly, it’s important to understand the process of expungement in Pennsylvania. Expungement is the legal process of erasing or sealing a criminal record, including a DUI conviction. Once the record is expunged, it is no longer accessible to the general public, including employers and landlords. Expungement is not automatic, and it requires filing a petition and meeting certain eligibility criteria.
In Pennsylvania, a DUI conviction can be expunged under certain circumstances. If you were charged with a first-time DUI and completed the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, you may be eligible for expungement after completing the program and any other requirements. However, if you were convicted of a subsequent DUI or had a particularly high blood alcohol content, it may not be possible to have the conviction expunged.
Another option for expungement in Pennsylvania is after a certain amount of time has passed. For a first-time DUI conviction with no ARD program, you may be eligible for expungement after ten years if you have no other criminal convictions during that time. For a second-time DUI conviction, the waiting period is 15 years. It’s important to note that the waiting period is counted from the date of conviction, not the completion of any sentence or probation.
Additionally, there is a possibility for “partial expungement” in Pennsylvania. While the DUI conviction may not be completely erased, certain aspects of the record may be sealed from public view. For example, a judge may order the DMV to remove the DUI offense from your driving record after a certain amount of time has passed.
In conclusion, it is possible to have a DUI conviction expunged in Pennsylvania, but eligibility criteria must be met. If you were charged with a first-time DUI and completed the ARD program, or if you have waited the required amount of time with no additional convictions, there is a chance for expungement. It’s important to consult with an experienced lawyer to evaluate your case and determine your eligibility for expungement.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.