DWI Show Up on a Background Check and Impact in Future

Getting pulled over and charged with a DWI can happen in an instant. However, a DWI's consequences stretch far beyond the initial arrest. Even after paying fines and serving a sentence, many wonder: will a DWI show up on a background check? And if so, how might that impact my future prospects?

In Missouri, a DWI is considered a criminal offense under sections 577.010 and 577.023. This means it goes on your criminal record, and background checks will usually reveal criminal records.

This guide covers those key questions. With the right legal guidance, many options exist to help you move forward while reducing the long-term impact of a DWI.

DWI Charges Show Up

A DWI arrest or conviction can appear in various records and background checks:

Driving Record

In Missouri, any alcohol-related law enforcement contact, even if the case was dismissed or never filed, is reported to the Department of Revenue and reflected on your driving record. While your driving record is not a public record, certain entities, such as employers, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies, may have limited access to it under specific circumstances.

Criminal Record

A DWI conviction is considered a criminal offense in Missouri, and as such, it will appear on your criminal background check. The duration for which a DWI remains on your criminal record varies by state. In Missouri, DWI convictions are typically reported indefinitely, although certain cases may be eligible for expungement or sealing after a specified period.

Public Records

When a DWI case is filed, it becomes a public record while pending. If the charge is dismissed or you are acquitted, the case may be removed from your public record. However, if you are convicted, even if it's just a fine, the conviction will remain a public record indefinitely.

Closed Records

While closed records will not appear in public record searches, they are not entirely erased. Fingerprint-based background checks, which are often required for certain professional licenses, can reveal closed records. Additionally, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors will have access to these records.

So, you see, a DWI can pop up in quite a few places, even old charges you thought were long gone.

And with more employers running background checks nowadays, it pays to understand where your DWI might appear.

Might a DWI Conviction Affect My Goals

Seeing a DWI on your record can negatively impact several aspects of life:

• Employment - Reduces chances of getting hired, especially for jobs involving driving.
• Housing - Makes renting an apartment more challenging when landlords check backgrounds.
• Custody cases - Lowers probability of a favorable outcome in child custody disputes.
• College/loans - Hinders admission odds and financial aid eligibility.

With your goals on the line, it's no wonder many look into options for expunging a DWI from their record.

But even an expungement can't erase all traces of a DWI arrest. So, it's wise to consult an attorney to understand exactly what will remain visible.

Removing a DWI Charge from Your Record

The good news? In Missouri, those convicted of a DWI can file a petition to expunge their criminal record after 10 years, assuming no repeat offenses.

However, even expunged records only vanish partially. Law enforcement and certain employers can still access expunged DWIs. Trucking companies and jobs requiring CDLs often run fingerprint checks revealing complete criminal histories.

That's why speaking to an attorney about the expungement process is highly recommended. An experienced DWI defense lawyer can provide tailored guidance on removing charges from your record. They can also give realistic expectations on what background checks may still turn up a DWI down the road.

Don't Let a DWI Define Your Future - Take Control with Rose Legal Services

Rose Legal Services focuses exclusively on criminal defense and DWI cases throughout Missouri. Attorney Scott Rose has protected clients' rights for over twenty years, earning a perfect 5-star client rating on Google.

The stakes are high when it comes to employment, custody rights, education, and more. So, partnering with a knowledgeable DWI attorney near me brings valuable clarity during challenging times.

At Rose Legal Services, our criminal defense lawyers have over 20 years assisting clients charged with DWIs. We're always just a phone call away to address your questions and help safeguard your future.

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, we've resolved over 100 charges with successful case outcomes. Call (314) 462-0200 for a free consultation.

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