Can you Expunge DWI Conviction in Atlanta?

An arrest is expunged from a person’s record when sealed. Record Restriction / Expungement does not imply that the data is destroyed. Instead, all users save those for law enforcement and criminal justice proceedings and are prohibited from using the information.

According to current state regulations, having a DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction expunged in Atlanta, Georgia, is not feasible. The erasure of criminal records, particularly those related to DWI convictions, is not permitted by Georgian law. Unless it is reversed on appeal or otherwise vacated, a DWI conviction in Georgia stays forever on the offender’s criminal record.

What You Should Know About Expungement of DWI Conviction in Atlanta

A DWI conviction may, however, occasionally qualify for record restriction under specific situations. This means that although the sentence would still be on the person’s criminal record, neither the public nor most employers could see it. The precise offense and the person’s criminal history are just two variables determining whether someone is eligible for record restriction.

It is crucial to highlight that record limitation does not happen automatically and needs to be requested through a court petition. After reviewing the petition, the court will decide whether to accept or reject the request based on many variables, including the nature of the offense, the applicant’s prior criminal history, and the justifications for the request.

You must have completed all the conditions of your sentence, including any fines, probation, or community service mandated by the court, to qualify for record restriction in Georgia. Additionally, some crimes—such as significant violent felonies, offenses against minors, and sexual offenses—might not be eligible for record limitation. It is important to note that record restriction does not occur automatically and calls for petition submission to the court.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, while record restriction can offer solace by limiting access to your criminal record, expungement is impossible for DWI convictions in Georgia. It is crucial to speak with an experienced lawyer who can walk you through the procedure and give you the best legal counsel depending on your situation, if you want to have the public record of your DWI conviction restricted.