How Long Does a DUI Stay on My Record in Tennessee?

There are many reasons why you should think twice before getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. But if not anything else, you must understand that this may lead to a DUI conviction disclosed on your driving record. Read on to discover how long a DUI conviction will have to stay on your record and how one of the seasoned Montgomery County criminal defense lawyers at Fendley and Etson can help prevent such a conviction against you from seeing the light of day.

How long does a DUI conviction have to stay on my record in TN?

Unfortunately, if you are charged with a DUI in the state of Tennessee, this charge will stay on your driving record for the rest of your life. This statute holds regardless of whether this is your first, second, or third offense or any consecutive offense after that.

The reality of having a DUI conviction on your permanent driving record is that it may have seriously negative implications on many other aspects of your life. These namely activities require a background check. To name a few examples, it may diminish your opportunities for future employment, housing, bank loans, and insurance plans.

Under what circumstances can I get a DUI expunged from my record?

While it may not be possible to get your DUI conviction expunged (i.e., removed entirely) from your driving record, the state of Tennessee may allow for non-conviction record sealing. Essentially, non-conviction record sealing means that there is no way an individual can view the contents of your record without being granted permission via a court order. Of note, this may only be made available to you in any of the following scenarios:

• You were arrested for a DUI but not charged.
• Your DUI charge was dismissed.
• You were found to be not guilty of a DUI charge.

Of note, the scenarios mentioned above may be achieved if you can successfully reduce your DUI charge to a reckless driving charge. This may be done if you and your lawyer can build a defense that proves the following arguments as accurate:

• You have no history of criminal or traffic offenses, especially with DUI offenses.
• Your blood-alcohol content level was less than the legal limit of 0.08 percent at the time of your traffic stop.
• You did not show signs of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of your traffic stop.
• You were not asked to submit a breathalyzer test during your traffic stop.
• You were not read your Miranda rights during your traffic stop.

You must not stand idly by when you are being accused of a DUI. Instead, you must take immediate action and retain the services of one of the competent Montgomery County criminal defense lawyers. Contact Fendley and Etson today.