Will A DWI Be On My Record Indefinitely?
Failing a sobriety test and being arrested for drunk driving is stressful, and you may be wondering how long it will take you to put the arrest behind you. After all, a Texas DWI can lead to expensive fines, jail time, increased auto insurance rates, reputation loss, and more. Juggling all of the thoughts you are having connected to social and legal consequences can be exhausting and depleting, but you may have more options than you realize. Connect with a Houston DWI lawyer to pave a path forward.
Will the Arrest Ever Be Removed from My Record?
Some states have set washout timeframes. Essentially, this means a conviction will be taken off your record after a set period of time. Texas does not follow these guidelines. In the state of Texas, a person found guilty of driving while intoxicated will have that arrest on their record indefinitely.
But, if your case is dismissed, for example if there is not enough proof you were under the influence of if the arrest was performed illegally, you may be able to expunge the charges from your record. Hiring an attorney to discuss the possibility of having your case dismissed is often the most efficient way to explore this option.
There are also times when a judge will offer a first-time offender the option of deferred adjudication. In these instances, you plead guilty to the charges and then complete a set of requirements. The conditions and terms of your probation could include alcohol education classes and community service.
What Is the Impact of Having a DWI On My Record?
When you have a DWI on your record, it can impact professional growth and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, car insurance companies are likely to increase your premiums or cancel your plan when a DWI conviction is noticed. It can be difficult for individuals with a DWI on their record to change plans or secure a policy that saves them money.
Many who are living with a Texas DWI on their record struggle with employment challenges. For instance, if your license is suspended you may be excluded from a job that requires driving. And certain industries, including teaching, have rules of conduct in place that could result in a person not getting a job or being let go because of a DWI.
Connecting with an aggressive, skilled DWI lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest can provide you with more options. It can be complicated to get a DWI charge dismissed, but it is sometimes possible if you talk to a qualified legal professional right away.
Do you want to discuss what a DWI on your record means for you? Talk over your DWI arrest with a Texas criminal attorney. Our experienced legal team has experience defending individuals against drunk driving charges. Criminal convictions can remain on a person’s record for years, but they don’t necessarily have to. Reach out to the legal team at Ayson Law Firm to discuss your options. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Houston defense attorney.